Rhetorical Terms 13-24: Definitions

Question 1

conceit

Answer 1

a fanciful, unusual expression, usually extended/surprising analogy btwn. dissimilar objects

Question 2

connotation

Answer 2

the nonliteral, implied meaning of a word; may involve ideas emotions, or attitudes

Question 3

denotation

Answer 3

the literal, dictionary definition of a word, devoid of any emotion, attitude, or color

Question 4

diction

Answer 4

writer’s word choice, especially with regard to their correctness, clearness, or effectiveness; creates an author’s style

Question 5

didactic

Answer 5

in Greek, literally means “teaching;” the teaching of moral or ethical principles

Question 6

euphemism

Answer 6

in Greek, literally means “good speech;” more agreeable or less offensive substitute for generally unpleasant words or concepts

Question 7

extended metaphor

Answer 7

a metaphor developed at great length, occurring frequently in ot throughout a work

Question 8

figurative language

Answer 8

Writing or speech that is not intended to carry literal meaning and is usually meant to be imaginative and vivid

Question 9

figure of speech

Answer 9

a device producing figurative language; ex. apostrophe, hyperbole, irony, etc.

Question 10

generic conventions

Answer 10

describes traditions for each genre; ex. an autobiography and political writing

Question 11

genre

Answer 11

major category into which a literary work fits. Poetry can be divided into such subcategories as lyric, dramatic, narrative, epic, etc.

Question 12

homily

Answer 12

literally means “sermon,” but more informally, it can include any serious talk, speech, or lecture involving moral or spiritual advice