Rhetorical Devices Flashcards
Ethos
An appeal to morality (right vs wrong)
Pathos
An appeal to emotion. *You must identify WHICH emotion
Logos
An appeal to logic or rational thought
Rhetorical Question
A question posed without an expected response
Tonal Shift
A change in the speaker’s attitude.
Juxtaposition
Placing things side by side, creating a relationship
Repetition
Repeating words or phrases intentionally.
*Not just because it’s the topic of the text
Cause-Effect
A structural device that poses actions and reactions.
(If-Then Sentences/Format)
Anticipating Objections
The author addresses what the opposition might say before they can say it
Allusion
A reference to history or literature
Illustration/ Imagery
Using sensory language or detail to create a picture.
(A vivid example).
Irony
Pointing out disparity in expectation and reality.
Comparison/ Contrast
Like juxtaposition, but the relationship is similarities or differences.
Word Choice/Diction
The selection of words the author uses. *Must have a descriptor to specify diction
Syntax
Sentence structure and variety. *Look for patterns and intentional breaks in pattern.
Ad Hominem
attacks the person making an argument instead of the argument itself to discredit the person rather than addressing their argument.
Appeal to Authority
tries to support their argument by citing a respected authority figure rather than providing evidence or sound reasoning.
False Dilemma
presents only two options as if they are the only possible choices, when in fact there are many other options available.
Hasty Generalization
draws a conclusion based on insufficient evidence or an unrepresentative sample.
Slippery Slope
argues that one event will lead inevitably to a series of negative events, without providing evidence to support this claim.
Straw Man
misrepresents or exaggerates an opponent’s argument in order to make it easier to attack or discredit.
