AP Literature Vocabulary

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Motif

Back

Any recurring element that has symbolic significance in a story.

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Denotation

Back

Literal definition of a word.

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Simile

Back

The comparison of one thing with another of a different kind, using 'like' or 'as' to make a description more emphatic or vivid.

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Requiem

Back

A poem for someone who died.

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Colloquialism

Back

The use of informal words or phrases in writing or speech.

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Symbolism

Back

The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities.

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Imagery

Back

Descriptive language that appeals to the senses and creates mental images.

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Alliteration

Back

The occurrence of the same letter or sound at the beginning of adjacent or closely connected words.

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Irony

Back

A contrast between expectation and reality, often highlighting the opposite of what is expected.

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Theme

Back

The central topic, subject, or message within a narrative.