persuasive devices Flashcards
Allusion
an expression designed to call something to mind without mentioning it explicitly. Authors might make allusions to well-known historical events, people, or literary works.
Analogy
A comparison between one thing and another, typically for the purpose of explanation or clarification. These can sometimes take the form of similes or metaphors
Anecdote
Adding a brief personal story to personalize the idea or situation or to illustrate particular points.
Appeal to authority
When an author attempts to add weight to an argument by claiming that a respected figure or organization agrees with them
Appeal to popularity
When an author claims that their view is widely shared. The hope that is the audience will take up a herd mentality and agree on the basis of wanting to fit in with the majority
Appeal to values
When an author mentions something that the audience cares strongly about. Such appeals might invoke the values of fairness, fame, honor, masculinity, femininity, patriotism, personal pride, religion, tradition, children or family. Often the implication is that the audience will gain something they value, or that they need to protect the value or are at risk of losing it.
Attack and praise (Pinpointing the enemy)
Providing negative comments about an opponent or positive ones about a supporter. Attacks belittle a group or individual while praise presents a person or group as outstanding.
Concession
Conceding or acknowledging objections or problems with the author’s argument. It is often done to create the impression of fairness or lack of bias.
Examples or evidence
When an author including clear real life examples to support their argument
Facts and Statistics
Including evidence from credible research. Facts or statistics make an argument sound scientific and help to give credibility
Polarisation
The presentation of a situation as an either-or set of circumstances.
Pre-empting (counter arguments)
Identifying a potential opposing argument and pointing out its flaws and weaknesses
Colloquial language
Using casual everyday language that makes writers seem down-to-earth, practical and realistic. It makes the author seem on the same level as the everyday person
Direct address
Direct address involves speaking directly to an audience using pronouns such as ‘you’, or its derivations ‘your’ and ‘yourself’
Inclusive language 9use of first person plural)
First person plural words are ‘we’, ‘us’ and ‘our’. They are often used to create a sense of unity between author and audience.
