Logical Fallacies
A logical fallacy where an argument is dismissed by attacking the speaker's character, motive, or attributes rather than addressing the substance of their argument.
ad hominem
Bridging words used to expand on a thought, connect similar ideas, or add supporting information to an argument.
Addition
The core beliefs, character, or guiding spirit that defines a person, group, or culture, often representing their fundamental values and attitudes.
A figure of speech that directly compares two different things to create vivid imagery, typically using the words "like" or "as".
Simile
The act of repeating words, phrases, or actions to emphasize, persuade, or create rhythm.
Repetition
A dishonest, often unintentional, logical fallacy where a person misrepresents, exaggerates, or oversimplifies an opponent’s argument to make it easier to attack or refute.
Straw Man
In spite of the fact that or even though.
Although
word, reason, or plan.
Logos
A figure of speech that directly equates two unrelated things to highlight a shared quality, stating one thing is another.
Metaphor
A literary device defined by the repetition of consonant sounds at the start of neighboring words, adding rhythm, mood, and emphasis.
Alliteration
A logical fallacy that presents only two, often extreme, options as the only possibilities, when in fact more alternatives exist.
False Dilemma
For that reason," "consequently," or "as a result".
Therefore
A rhetorical device and literary technique that appeals to the audience's emotions, specifically evoking pity, sympathy, sorrow, or tenderness.
Pathos
A literary device and figure of speech that assigns human qualities, emotions, or actions to inanimate objects, animals, or abstract concepts.
Personification
Occurs when a speaker says one thing but means the exact opposite, or when the intended meaning is markedly different from the literal interpretation. I
Verbal Irony
A psychological phenomenon where individuals adopt behaviors, beliefs, or trends because they are popular, driven by the desire to conform or fear of missing out.
Bandwagon
At a later or succeeding time.
Afterwards
I have been married for 58 years, and I can tell you that he will not be a good husband.
Ethos
An extreme, intentional exaggeration not meant to be taken literally, used to emphasize a point, evoke humor, or add drama.
Hyperbole
A literary and theatrical device where the audience knows crucial information that the characters do not, creating intense suspense, humor, or tragedy.
Dramatic Irony
An argument claiming that a small first step will inevitably lead to a chain reaction of negative, extreme events without providing evidence for that progression.
Slippery Slope
In the end," "finally," or "at the most basic level.
ultimately
A commercial showing hungry children with sad music, designed to evoke empathy and encourage donations.
Pathos
A literary device using vivid, sensory-rich language to paint mental pictures, engaging sight, sound, smell, taste, touch, motion, and internal emotion.
imagery
Occurs when the actual outcome of a situation is the exact opposite of what was intended or expected.
Situational Irony