AP Flashcards
Diction
Word choice
syntax
ordering of words in a sentence and how it achieves tone, meaning, and point of view
style
describes how author uses language to get his point across
tone
attitude and mood created by style
point of view
stance/opinion revealed by style and tone
imagery
language used for sensual perception
hyperbole
exaggeration
understatement
presenting facts in a way that makes them seem less significant than they are
simile
comparing two objects using “like” or “as.”
metaphor
comparing objects not using “like” or “as”
symbol
a word that represents something other than itself
denotation
a word’s primary meaning (definition)
connotation
the vast range of other meanings a word suggests
oxymoron
an apparent contradiction of terms
paradox
an apparent contradiction of ideas or statements
personification
giving human qualities to an inanimate objects
rhetorical question
a question with an obvious answer
bombast
pompous language
metonymy
one term substituted for another term which is closely associated
synecdoche
metonymy restricted to a part signifying the whole
theme
general ideas
euphemism
words used to avoid employing an unpleasant or offensive term
verbal irony
stating something but meaning the opposite (sarcasm)
situational irony
a situation runs contrary to what is expected
