Literary and Rhetorical Terms

Front

A brief, indirect reference to a person, place, event, or another work of literature or art that the author assumes the audience is familiar with.

Back

Allusion

Front

The deliberate repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses, sentences, or verses.

Back

Anaphora

Front

A short, simple narrative of an incident; often used for humorous effect or to make a point.

Back

Anecdote

Front

The presentation of two contrasting images. The ideas are balanced by word, phrase, clause, or paragraphs. Examples include 'To be or not to be...' and 'Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.'

Back

Antithesis

Front

A word or phrase (including slang) used in everyday conversation and informal writing but that is often inappropriate in formal writing (e.g., y’all, ain’t).

Back

Colloquialism

Front

Implied or suggested meaning of a word because of its association in the reader’s mind.

Back

Connotation

Front

Literal meaning of a word as defined.

Back

Denotation

Front

Word choice, an element of style; creates tone, attitude, and style, as well as meaning.

Back

Diction

Front

When a writer tries to persuade the audience to respect and believe him or her based on a presentation or image of self through the text.

Back

Ethos

Front

The occasion that demands a response. An urgent need or demand.

Back

Exigence