Rhetorical Devices and Literary Techniques

Metaphor

A comparison that establishes a figurative identity between objects being compared

Simile

A comparison using "like" or "as"

Irony

A contrast between expectation and reality

Personification

A figure of speech in which an object or animal is given human feelings, thoughts, or attitudes

Hyperbole

A figure of speech that uses exaggeration to express strong emotion, make a point, or evoke humour

Foreshadowing

A narrative device that hints at coming events; often builds suspense or anxiety in the reader.

Symbolism

A person, place or object which has a meaning in itself but suggests other meanings as well

Motif

A recurring subject, theme, or idea in a literary work.

Pronouns

A word that takes the place of a noun

Rule of three

Arranging words, phrases or sentences in groups of three or repeating them three times.

Antithesis

Direct opposite

Emotive language

Language chosen to stir the emotions of the reader

Rhetorical Questions

Questions phrased to stimulate a mental response rather than an actual spoken response on the part of the audience

Repetition

Repeated use of sounds, words, or ideas for effect and emphasis

Alliteration

Repetition of consonant sounds (usually at the beginning of words)

Opinion as fact

To present beliefs as if they are factual truth

Sound Patterns

Using alliteration or assonance to aid in impact

Idioms

a set expression of two or more words that means something other than the literal meanings of its individual words

Superlative

excellent; of the highest quality

Flattery

excessive or insincere praise