Rhetorical Terms

Question 1

Denotation

Answer 1

The dictionary definition of a word (as opposed to connotation)

Question 2

Details

Answer 2

The facts given by the author or speaker as support for the attitude or tone

Question 3

Diction

Answer 3

Word choice; relates to the connotation & the impact of words chosen by the author

Question 4

Imagery

Answer 4

A word or phrase that appeals to one or more of the five senses: sight, hearing, touch, taste, smell

Question 5

Language

Answer 5

Refers to the overall style & level of formality in writing

Question 6

Point of view

Answer 6

The vantage point from which a text is written; includes outlook of the speaker/narrator

A. First person- text is written from the perspective of someone directly involved
B. Third person limited- text is written from perspective of an observer with only partial insight
C. Third person omniscient- all knowing observer who describes and comments with unlimited knowledge

Question 7

Rhetoric

Answer 7

The art of using words effectively in speech or writing

Question 8

Style

Answer 8

A writer’s characteristic way of writing determined by the choice of words, the arrangements of words in sentences, and the relationship of the sentences to one another

Question 9

Syntax

Answer 9

The arrangement of words in a sentence; sentence structure (also known as scheme)

Question 10

Tone

Answer 10

The writer’s or speaker’s attitude toward his or her audience and/or subject

Question 11

Connotation

Answer 11

All the meanings, associations, or emotions, that a word suggests (as opposed to denotation)

Ex: calling someone thin has a favorable connotation; scrawny is insulting