Essay terms and writting (grammar) terms

Question 1

Logos

Answer 1

Appeals to Logos are intended to speak directly to the audience’s sense of reason or logic. These arguments “just make sense.”

Question 2

Diction

Answer 2

Diction refers to the word choice the author uses. Typically in formal writing or speeches, authors will use formal diction (no contractions, elevated speech style). If they use more casual diction, ask yourself why the author made that choice. Are they trying to connect with an audience or show that they have human side? Or, if the diction is more formal, is this part of the author’s ethos to establish credibility and knowledge on the subject discussed? Consider what the purpose of the passage might be to determine why authors use the diction they use.

Question 3

Ethos

Answer 3

Appeals to Ethos are intended to establish a person’s professional credibility or qualifications to make a particular argument. Through a claim to knowledge and relevant experience, this method of persuasion emphasizes the ethical or moral character and stature of the person who is providing information. If the speaker or writer wants to provide extra credibility, they can bring in a trusted source to bolster their argument.

Question 4

Imaginery

Answer 4

Imagery is vivid language the author uses to immerse readers in a particular place, and usually related to visual detail. Other sensory details can include taste, smell, touch, and sound. If an author is using imagery in a persuasive piece, they probably want to put the reader into a specific situation so the reader can empathize more readily with the argument being made.

Question 5

Pathos

Answer 5

Appeals to Pathos are intended to evoke an emotional response in the audience, such as fear, anger, or nostalgia/sentimentality.

Question 6

Status quo

Answer 6

Status quo or Statu quo is a Latin phrase meaning the existing state of affairs, particularly with regard to social or political issues.