Sound Devices
Repeating key words, phrases, or ideas that reinforce an argument
Repetition
A comparison using "like" or "as"
Simile
Using descriptive language that appeals to the 5 senses to create a mental picture
Imagery
When an author appeals to reason or logical arguments
Logos
Repetition of the same sound at the beginning of words in a sentence;
"Sally sells seashells by the seashore."
Alliteration
A direct comparison;
"He is a shining star"
Metaphor
Using an object, person, or idea to represent something deeper;
"A heart representing love"
Symbolism
Ethos
Repetition of consonant sounds within or at the end of words;
"pitter-patter"
Consonance
Giving human qualities to non-human things;
"The wind whispered through the trees."
When something unexpected happens or the opposite of what you expect occurs;
"A fire station burning down"
Irony
When an author appeals to people's emotions or feelings
Pathos
Words that imitate sounds;
"buzz" or "meow"
Onomatopoeia
A phrase that does not mean what it says literally;
"It's raining cats and dogs."
Idiom
Combining contradictory or opposite words;
"big baby", "sweet sorrow"
Oxymoron
Making references to well-known events, people, places, or stories to add depth or meaning to an argument
Allusion
Repetition of vowel sounds within words;
"The rain in Spain falls mainly on the plain."
Assonance
An extreme exaggeration;
"I have a million things to do."
Hyperbole
Overused phrases or expressions that have lost their originality or impact;
"That was a piece of cake!"
Cliché
Using a mild or less direct word or phrase to replace a harsh one;
"He passed away." vs "He died."
Euphemism