Literary Devices Flashcards
Ad hominem
Attacking an opponent’s character or personal traits in an argument instead of addressing the issue at hand.
Authorial Aside
A literary device where the author interrupts the narrative to speak directly to the reader.
Circumlocution
The use of many words where fewer would do, especially in a deliberate attempt to be vague or evasive.
Euphemism
A mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt when referring to something unpleasant or embarrassing.
Juxtaposition
The fact of two things being seen or placed close together with contrasting effect.
Apathetic
Showing or feeling no interest, enthusiasm, or concern.
Fervent
Having or displaying a passionate intensity.
Impetuous
Acting or done quickly and without thought or care; impulsive.
Intolerant
Unwilling to accept views, beliefs, or behavior that differ from one’s own.
Anticlimatic
Disappointingly or unexpectedly underwhelming in comparison to what was expected.
Didactic
Intended to teach, particularly in having moral instruction as an ulterior motive.
Enumeration
The action of mentioning a number of things one by one.
Oxymoron
A figure of speech in which apparently contradictory terms appear in conjunction.
Staccato phrases
Short, abrupt bursts of speech or sound.
Brash
Self-assertive in a rude, noisy, or overbearing way.
