Language

Rhetorical Language Devices

(Persuasive Devices Centered on Language)

Diction

Diction is the choice of words and the style of expression used by the speaker or writer. It can influence how an audience perceives a message, depending on whether the language is formal, informal, abstract, or concrete.

• Example: A speaker using complex vocabulary and technical terms to appeal to an educated audience or using simpler language to be more accessible.

Syntax

Syntax refers to the arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences in a language..

• Example: Short, punchy sentences for emphasis or longer, more intricate sentences to develop an argument thoroughly.

Metaphor & Simile

These are figures of speech used to make comparisons or express ideas in creative ways. A metaphor directly states a comparison, while a simile uses "like" or "as."

• Example: Metaphor: “Time is a thief.” Simile: “Her smile is like the sun.”

Hyperbole

Hyperbole is the use of deliberate exaggeration for emphasis or effect. It is often used to make a point more forceful or persuasive.

• Example: “I’ve told you a million times!”

Anaphora

Anaphora is the deliberate repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive sentences or clauses. It is used to emphasize a point and make the argument more memorable.

• Example: “We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields.”

Parallelism

Parallelism involves using similar structures in sentences or phrases to create a rhythm and make an idea easier to follow or more persuasive.

• Example: “Government of the people, by the people, for the people.”

Antithesis

Antithesis juxtaposes contrasting ideas in a balanced way to highlight differences and make the argument more striking.

• Example: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.”

Irony

Verbal Irony involves saying one thing but meaning another, often in a way that conveys a meaning opposite to what is stated. It can be used to add humor or highlight contradictions.

• Example: Saying “What a wonderful day” during a storm.

Imagery

Imagery involves using descriptive language to create vivid pictures in the minds of the audience. It appeals to the senses and enhances emotional engagement.

• Example: “The crisp, golden leaves crunched beneath her feet as she walked through the autumn forest.”

Polysyndeton

The deliberate use of multiple conjunctions in quick succession to emphasize the elements of a list and create a sense of overwhelming or exhaustive detail.

• Example: “We have ships and men and money and stores.”

Asyndeton

The omission of conjunctions between parts of a sentence or list to create a more forceful, concise, or dramatic effect.

• Example: “I came, I saw, I conquered.”

Euphemism

A milder or more polite expression used in place of one that might be harsh, offensive, or unpleasant. Euphemisms soften the impact of difficult or controversial topics.

• Example: Referring to “passed away” instead of “died.”

Litotes

A form of understatement where a positive statement is expressed by negating its opposite. It can be used to downplay an idea while still affirming it.

• Example: “Not bad” to mean something is actually quite good.

Amplification

Repeating a word or expression while adding more detail to it, in order to emphasize a point or make it clearer. Amplification builds intensity in an argument.

• Example: “The homework was hard, incredibly hard, impossibly hard.”

Climactic Order

Arranging ideas or arguments in order of increasing importance, intensity, or impact, leading up to the most powerful point. This builds momentum and leaves a strong final impression.

• Example: “First, we need awareness. Next, we need action. And finally, we need a commitment to lasting change.”

Paralipsis (Apophasis)

The technique of emphasizing something by pretending to pass over or omit it, thereby drawing attention to it indirectly. It can be used to highlight a point while maintaining plausible deniability.

• Example: “I’m not even going to mention how late you are every day.”

Antimetabole

The repetition of words or phrases in reverse order to create contrast or highlight a point. It emphasizes the relationship between two ideas by inverting their structure.

• Example: “Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.”

Epistrophe (Epiphora)

The repetition of a word or phrase at the end of successive clauses or sentences. It reinforces a point through repeated emphasis at the conclusion of statements.

• Example: “Government of the people, by the people, for the people.”

Paradox

A seemingly contradictory statement that, upon closer inspection, reveals a deeper truth or insight. Paradoxes provoke thought and challenge assumptions.

• Example: “The only constant in life is change.”

Hypophora

The technique of asking a question and immediately answering it. It allows the speaker or writer to frame the conversation and guide the audience toward a desired conclusion.

• Example: “What’s the solution to this problem? The answer is simple: education.”

Tricolon

The use of a series of three parallel words, phrases, or clauses. The rule of three is particularly effective because it provides a sense of completeness and balance.

• Example: “Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”

Colloquialism

The use of informal language, slang, or conversational expressions. It can make the speaker seem more relatable and approachable by aligning their language with that of the audience.

• Example: “Let’s get this show on the road.”

Prolepsis

Addressing an argument or counterpoint before it is raised by the audience. This technique shows that the speaker has anticipated objections and is prepared to refute them.

• Example: “Now, I know what you’re thinking—how could this be true? But let me explain.”