A form of deduction. An extremely subtle, sophisticated, or deceptive argument
The way words are put together to form phrases, clauses, and sentences. It is sentence structure and how it influences the way a reader perceives a piece of writing.
a writing principle that suggests that a trio of events or characters is more humorous, satisfying, or effective than other numbers in execution of the story and engaging the reader.
To sidestep or evade the real problem.
The literary practice of attempting to describe life and nature without idealization and with attention to detail
A statement that seems contradictory, but is actually true.
Two opposite or contrasting words, phrases, or clauses, or even ideas, with parallel structure.
When you say something and mean the opposite/something different
The claim that because somebody famous supports an idea, the idea must be right.
Intended for teaching or to teach a moral lesson
Grammatically correct linkage of one subject with two or more verbs or a verb with two or more direct objects. The linking shows a relationship between ideas more clearly.
The repetition of the same consonant sound at the beginning of words.
A long, emotionally violent, attack using strong, abusive language.
Claiming that two situations are highly similar, when they aren't.
Narrative form in which characters and actions have meanings outside themselves; characters are usually personifications of abstract qualities
Form of understatement in which the negative of the contrary is used to achieve emphasis and intensity. For example, "She is not a bad cook." Or "No man ever followed his genius until it misled him." Thoreau
A work that reveals a critical attitude toward some element of life to a humorous effect
A more agreeable or less offensive substitute for generally unpleasant words or concepts.
Assuming that because two things happened, the first one caused the second one.
The literal, explicit meaning of a word, without its connotations.
Recurrent device, formula, or situation that often serves as a signal for the appearance of a character or event
A sentence in which two parallel elements are set off against each other like equal weights on a scale. Both parts are parallel grammatically.
Ordinary or familiar type of conversation
A conclusion that does not follow from its premises; an invalid argument.