Chapter 12: Using Language (Ts)

Denotative Meaning

The literal or dictionary meaning of a word or phrase. This is precise, literal and objective. It describes the object, person, place, idea, or event to which the word refers.

Connotative Meaning

The meaning suggested by the association or emotions triggered by a word or phrase. This is more variable, figurative, and subjective. The "blank" meaning of a word is what the word suggests or implies.

Rhythm

The pattern of sound in a speech created by the choice and arrangement of words. there are four basic stylistic devices employed by speakers to improve the rhythm of their prose: parallelism, repetition, alliteration, antithesis.

Thesaurus

A book of synonyms.

cliche

A trite or overused expression. Avoid them in speech making.

Simile

An explicit comparison, introduced with the word "like" or "as", between things that are essentially different yet have something in common. Examples: busy as a be, sleeping like a log.

Metaphor

An explicit comparison, not introduced with the word "like" or "as", between things that are essentially different yet have something in common. Example: America's cities are the window through which the world looks at American society.

Clutter

Discourse that takes many more words than are necessary to express an idea.

Repetition

Reiteration of the same words or set of words at the beginning or end of successive clauses or sentences. This usually results in parallelism. In addition to building a strong cadence, it also unites a sequence of ideas, emphasizes an idea by stating it more than once, and helps create a strong emotional effect. Example: If not now, when? If not us, who? If not together, how?

Alliteration

Repetition of the initial consonant sound of close or adjoining words. Example: Peace is essential for progress, but progress is no less essential for peace.

Antithesis

The juxtaposition of contrasting ideas, usually in parallel structures. Example: Ask not what your country can do for you; as what you can do for your country.

Parallelism

The similar arrangement of a pair or series of related words, phrases, or sentences. Example: I speak as a Republican. I speak as a woman. I speak a United States Senator. I speak as an American.

Imagery

The use of vivid language to create mental images of objects, actions, or ideas. The ability to make the listener "sense" the thing that is being described.

Erring on the side of caution

When in doubt--don't.

Abstract Words

Words that refer to ideas or concepts, qualities or attributes. Examples: humility, science, progress, philosophy.

Concrete Words

Words that refer to tangible objects--people, places, and things. Examples: carrot, pencil, nose, door.