Diction

A writer’s distinctive vocabulary and style of expression. The writer’s or the poet’s distinctive vocabulary choices and style of expression

  • Diction is affected by the chosen register

    • 01: Static (MOST FORMAL)

    • 02: Formal

    • 03: Consultative

    • 04: Casual

    • 05: Intimate: (MOST PERSONAL)

  • Diction establishes tone and characterization. It also impacts word choice and syntax

  • The author’s purpose determines diction

    • for example: to convince, to amuse, to plead

  • Denotation: the literal, dictionary definition of a word

  • Connotation: the associations or emotional connections related to a word


Analyzing diction:

  • register sets the level of formality

  • Diction choices establish tone and characterization

  • Purpose determines word choice

  • Denotation is the literal meaning

  • Connotation is the association and emotion