Rhetorical Appeals and Modality

Front

What is Ethos?

Back

Ethos is an appeal to character and credibility, convincing the audience that the speaker or writer is trustworthy or an expert.

Front

Example of Ethos

Back

"As a doctor, I recommend this treatment."

Front

What is Pathos?

Back

Pathos is an appeal to emotion, making the audience feel something—like sadness, happiness, anger, or guilt—to persuade them.

Front

Example of Pathos

Back

"Think of the children suffering without clean water."

Front

What is Logos?

Back

Logos is an appeal to logic and reason, using facts, statistics, or logical arguments to persuade.

Front

Example of Logos

Back

"This car uses 30% less fuel, saving you money each year."

Front

What is Modality?

Back

Modality refers to the strength or force of language used to express certainty, obligation, or possibility.

Front

Difference between high and low modality

Back

High modality uses strong, forceful words (e.g., must, always, definitely), while low modality uses softer, less certain words (e.g., might, could, possibly).

Front

Example of high vs. low modality

Back

"You must wear a seatbelt" (high modality) vs. "You might want to wear a seatbelt" (low modality).