Rhetorical Terms
Repetition | A word, phrase or structure is used multiple times |
Anaphora | Repetition at the beginning of two or more sentences or clauses in a row. |
Epistrophe | Repetition at the end of successive clauses or sentences. |
Aphorism | Short and memorable statement that expresses a general truth. |
Euphemism | A less offensive term to substitute for an unpleasant one. |
Parenthetical Idea | Separate an idea from the rest of a sentence. |
Hyperbole | Deliberate exaggeration for emphasis or effect. |
Idiom | Common phrase where overall meaning is different from the literal meaning. |
Metonymy | The replacing of an actual word or idea with a substitute/related word or concept. |
Polysyndeton | Involves the repetition of conjunctions to link ideas in a list or clause. |
Invective | Long, emotionally violent, attack using strong, abusive language. |
Concession | A rhetorical device where the speaker acknowledges an opposing argument or point of view. |
Rhetorical Question | Question not asked for information but for effect. |
Imagery | Words that create a picture in the reader's mind. |
Diction | Word choice that affects style and meaning. |
Symbol | Something that represents a deeper meaning beyond its literal meaning to connect normal things to ideas. |
Allegory | A story, poem or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically moral or political. |
Anecdote | A brief personal story or narrative |
Analogy | Figure of speech that creates a comparison of unlike things that are alike to prove a larger point. |
Allusion | Indirect reference to something that the author assumes their audience is familiar with. Creates connection between audience and speaker. |
Metaphor | Def: Making a comparison between two unlike things by stating one thing is the other. |
Simile | Making a comparison of two unlike things using like or as. |
Oxymoron | Put two opposite or contradictory words together to create a new or impactful meaning or effect. Conveys the complexity of something. |
Juxtaposition | Placing multiple things side by side to compare or contrast to make a point or tension and empower the idea or message. |
Paradox | Statement that appears to contradict itself but may reveal a deeper meaning or insight. |
Situational Irony | Where the opposite of what was expected to happen occurs, and it results in a surprising and/humorous effect. |
Verbal Irony | Says the opposite of what they mean (to be funny or sarcastic). |
Satire | Uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize flaws in society, behavior, or beliefs. |
Ethos | Appeal to credibility or authority using character, experience, reliability, or shared values. |
Pathos | Appeal to emotion to connect with the audience on a personal level. (fear, anger, sadness, joy, hope, pride, guilt, compassion, love, shame are important ones). |
Logos | Appeal to logic and reason. |