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