Feeling or atmosphere that a writer creates for the reader
mood
A comparison of two unlike things using like or as
simile
extreme exaggeration
hyperbole
A common, often used expression that doesn't make sense if you take it literally.
idiom
a story, poem, or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one.
allegory
A figure of speech in which an object or animal is given human feelings, thoughts, or attitudes
personification
a figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable without using "like" or "as"
metaphor
the presentation of something as being smaller, worse, or less important than it actually is.
understatement
A brief, cleverly worded statement that makes a wise observation about life.
aphorism
repetition of the same letter or sound at the beginning of adjacent or closely connected words.
alliteration
the type of rhetoric appeal that is used in this sentence: “MSU basketball is one of the strongest programs in the state because it has the highest winning percentage over the past five seasons."
logos
short account of event, a story used to help prove a point
anecdote
special words or expressions that are used by a particular profession or group and are difficult for others to understand.
jargon
A reference to another work of literature, person, or event
allusion
the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses
anaphora
an attitude of a writer toward the subject or audience through word choice
tone
A comparison of two different things that are similar in some way, used to help someone understand an idea
analogy
A word or phrase (including slang) used in everyday conversation and informal writing but that is often inappropriate in formal writing
colloquialism
the repetition of a word at the end of successive clauses or sentences
epistrophe
a statement that seems contradictory but is actually true
paradox
this sentence uses which rhetoric appeal: “With their unshakable teamwork and focused determination, the bowling team dominated every match.”
loaded language (positive)
writing that offers insight into society, its values, politics, and the human condition
social commentary
a mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt when referring to something unpleasant or embarrassing.
euphemism
the type of rhetorical appeal that would be given to the witch hunt if John Proctor decided to let his confession be hung to the church
ethos
Purposely scaring the audience into doing, believing, or avoiding something
fear tactics