Language Techniques Flashcards
Juxtaposition
Poetic and rhetorical device in which normally unassociated ideas words or phases are placed next to one another, creating an affect of surprise of wit.
the author deliberately “places” two contrasting things side by side in order to highlight the differences. Authors can juxtapose people, places, things, and ideas.
Paradox
Statement that appears to contradict itself.
Give an example of a paradox
Some of the biggest failures I ever had were successes.
Parallel structure
Repetition of words or phrases that have similar grammatical structures.
Example of parallel structure
He came. He saw. He conquered.
Sibilance
Type of alliteration with the sound of ‘s’ repeated.
Example of sibilance
The silent snake slivered.
Archaic language
Language no longer used.
Colloquial language
Ordinary conversational English rather than formal speech or writing. Audience relates to text as the mood is relaxed and free flowing.
Comparatives
Compares two things or groups.
Contractions
Indicates formality
Examples of contractions
Can’t, won’t.
Euphemism
When mild term substituted for a harsh one. It makes something bad almost good and presents it in a positive way.
Hyperbole
Exaggeration for effect.
Example of hyperbole
I have a million and one things to do
