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.