Rhetorical Terms List 2 Flashcards
An argument that attacks the integrity of an opponent rather than the issue.
ad hominem argument
Comparison to explain one thing by likening it to another.
Analogy
A brief narrative offered in a text to capture attention or support a claim.
Anecdote
Appeal to ethics
Appeal to ethos
Appeal to logic
Appeal to logos
Appeal to emotion rather than strict reason
Appeal to pathos
Situation that results when a writer or speaker constructs an argument on an unaccepted assumption
Begging the question
Relationship express big that if X is the cause, then Y is the effect
Causal relationship
Word or expression only acceptable for informal use
Colloquialism
The final paragraph or paragraphs that sum up and wrap up an essay
Conclusion
The implication of emotion of a word not the literal definition
Connotation
Rhetorical principle that requires stress given to important elements in an essay
Emphasis
A short prose discussion of a single topic
Essay
Less offensive substitute for an unpleasant concept
Euphemism
Instance representative of an idea that illustrates it
Example
Statement that asserts a broad truth based upon a knowledge of specific cases
Generalization
Errors in reasoning used by speakers or writers
Logical fallacy
Two different attitudes towards writing. Objective has no bias. Subjective has bias.
Objective and subjective writing
Side issue introduced into an argument to distract from the main argument
Red herring
Involves bitter, caustic language that is meant to hurt or ridicule someone or something
Sarcasm
The use of wit and humor to ridicule societal problems and to inspire change
Satire
Expressing in an independent clause, phrase, or single word any idea that is not significant enough to be expressed in a main clause or an independent sentence
Subordination
Reflection of the writer’s attitude towards the subject
Tone
Deliberately represent something as less than what it is to stress its magnitude
Understatement
Presence or sound of self chosen by the author
Voice
