Diction A writer's or speaker's choice of words Syntax The arrangement of words and phrases to create sentences. Telegraphic sentences shorter than 5 words Denotation the literal meaning of a word Connotation All the meanings, associations, or emotions that a word suggests Loose sentence A sentence that could end before the modifying phrases without losing its coherence Periodic sentence A complex sentence that only makes sense when the end of the sentence is reached Balanced sentence the phrases or clauses balance each other by virtue of their likeness of structure, meaning, or length Natural order sentence the subject comes before the verb/predicate Inverted order (sentence inversion) constructing a sentence so that the verb/predicate comes before the subject Parallel structure (parallelism) grammatical or structural similarity between sentences or parts of a sentence. It involves a mirroring of arrangement of words, phrases, sentences, or paragraphs Elevated diction formal, lofty, or ornate speech or writing Informal diction plain language of everyday use, may include idioms, slang, contractions, and a more personal voice Formal diction consists of a dignified, impersonal, and elevated use of language Jargon diction distinctive to a particular group of people