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AP Language Terminology Flashcards

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8473651087AlliterationRepetition of initial sound0
8473654611AllusionReference to a mythological, literary, or historical person, place, or thing1
8473668998AnadiplosisThe repetition of the last word/phrase of one clause at the beginning of the following clause2
8473678046AnaphoraRepetition of the same words or phrases at the beginning of successive phrases or clauses3
8473685972AnastropheThe use of inverted or unusual word order for emphasis4
8473696770AnthimeriaThe substitution of one part of speech for another for emphasis5
8473703236AntithesisJuxtaposition of balanced contrasting ideas, sometimes written in a "not x, but y" format6
8473724285AsyndetonA deliberate lack of conjunctions between parallel clauses7
8473735336CaesuraA break in the flow, often signaled by a dash or parentheses8
8473743469ChiasmusA type of antithesis in which the second half of an expression is balanced against the first with the same words in a different order9
8473762689ColloquialismLocal or regional dialect; slang10
8473766109ConnotationThe implied, suggested, or underlying meaning of a word or phrase11
8473775295DenotationThe dictionary definition of a word12
8473780011DictionWord choice used for stylistic effect13
8473789008EpistropheThe repetition of a group of words at the end of successive clauses14
8473797081EuphemismThe substitution of an inoffensive expression for one that may offend15
8473805310HyperboleA deliberate and often outrageous exaggeration, used for serious or comedic effect16
8473815945IdiomExpression peculiar to a given language17
8473821477ImageryLanguage that appeals to all of the senses18
8473826747JuxtapositionPlacing unassociated ideas/words/phrases next to each other for effect19
8473842633MetaphorA comparision20
8473848199MetonymyAn entity referred to by one of its attributes or associations21
8473854956OxymoronA form of paradox that combines a pair of contrary terms into a single expression22
8473866390ParadoxA statement that contradicts itself and may seem almost absurd23
8473876394Parallel StructureBalanced components in the structural arrangement24
8473884613ParodyA composition imitating another usually serious work25
8473895453PersonificationGive inanimate objects or abstract ideas human characteristics26
8473906689PolysyndetonSentence with multiple conjunctions used for effect27
8473911050ProseThe ordinary form of the written language28
8473917046PunA play on words that identical or similar in sound but have sharply diverse meanings29
8473933984SatireA literary works that holds up human failings to ridicule and censure for purpose of change30
8473943491SimileA comparision using like or as31
8473950800SynesthesiaVivid imagery with concurrent response of two or more senses32
8473966808ZeugmaTechnique of using one word to yoke two or more others for ironic or amusing effect33
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AP Language Flashcards

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8050886132EthosEthical appeal, to convince the audience of the author's credibility or character.0
8050886133Pathos (emotion)The emotional appeal to an audience in an argument.1
8050886134Logos (logical appeal)a way of persuading an audience through reasoning by offering them facts, statistics, and examples.2
8050886135What is the s stand for in soapstone?Speaker3
8050886136What does o stand for in soapstone?Occasion4
8050886137What does a stand for in soapstone?Audience5
8050886138What does the p stand for in soapstonePurpose6
8050886139What does the second s in soapstone stand for?Subject7
8050886140What does the t stand for in soapstoneTone8
8050886141RhetoricThe art of using language effectively and persuasively9
8050886142claim of factsconcerning what is or is not true10
8050886143Claim of value means?What something is worth or morality11
8050886144Claim of policy means?Answers the question - What should be done?12
8050886145red herring fallacyirrelevant information is used to divert the direction of the argument13
8050886146ad hominem fallacywhen speakers attack the person making the argument and not the argument itself14
8050886147false dilemma fallacyif you claim that there are only two possible choices to address a problem15
8050886148Strawman FallacyMisrepresenting someone's argument to make it easier to attack16
8050886149hasty generalization fallacyerror of drawing a conclusion on the basis of insufficient evidence17
8050886150Circular reasoningReasoning that ends and begins in the same place. No evidence is offered18
8050886151post hoc ergo propter hocMistaken notion that one thing happens after another, the first event was a cause of the second event19
8050886152False authorityClaiming something is tue because it is lived by someone who said is to be an "authority" on the subject20
8050886153BandwagonKnowing you could be rejected by peers for decision21
8050886154inductive reasoningThe bottom up approach, requires more see fix observation to generalizations and theories22
8050886155deductive reasoningIs always certain and complete, top to down approach23
8050886156Toulmin ModelAn approach to analyzing and constructing arguments created by British philosopher Stephen Toulmin.24
8050886157What are the parts of a toulmin model?Evidence, assumption, qualifier, reservation, claim25
8050886158Toulmin model set up?Because (evidence as support), therefore (claim), since (assumption), on account (backing), unless (reservation)26
8050886159DataFacts, figures, and other evidence gathered through observations.27
8050886160claimsStatement being argued28
8050886161WarrantsThe General, hypothetical, local statements, that serves as a bridge between the claim and data, makes a qualifier (similar to the qualifier)29
8050886162QualifiersStatements that limit the strength of the argument that propose the conditions under which the argument is true30
8050886163RebuttalsCounter arguments (unless it has a hole in it) rain reference31
8050886164Backing statementsStatements that serve to support the warrants, supports assumption32
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AP English Language and Composition, Barron's Glossary Terms Flashcards

"The list that follows is made up of words and phrases used by scholars, critics, writers--in fact, all literate people--to exchange ideas and information about language. Most of the words and phrases have appeared in recent years in the multiple-choice or essay sections of AP Language and Composition exams.

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4771080544abstract(n.) An abbreviated synopsis of a longer work of scholarship or research. (adj.) Dealing with or tending to deal with a subject apart from a particular or specific instance.0
4771080545ad hominemDirected to or appealing to feelings or prejudices instead of to intellect or reason.1
4771080546adageA saying or proverb containing a truth based on experience and often couched in metaphorical language.2
4771080547allegoryA story in which a second meaning is to be read beneath the surface.3
4771080548alliterationThe repetition of one or more initial consonants in a group of words or lines in a poem.4
4771080549allusionA reference to a person, place, or event meant to create an effect or enhance the meaning of an idea.5
4771080550ambiguityA vagueness of meaning; a conscious lack of clarity meant to evoke multiple meanings or interpretations.6
4771080551anachronismA person, scene, event or other element that fails to correspond with the appropriate time or era.7
4771080552analogyA comparison that points out similarities between two dissimilar things; a passage that points out several similarities between two unlike things is called an extended analogy.8
4771080553anecdoteA brief explanation, summary, or evaluation of a text or work of literature.9
4771080554annotationA brief explanation, summary, or evaluation of a text or work of literature.10
4771080555antagonistA character or force in a work of literature that, by opposing the protagonist, produces tension or conflict.11
4771080556antecedentA word to which a pronoun refers.12
4771080557antithesisA rhetorical opposition or contrast of ideas by means of a grammatical arrangement of words, clauses, or sentences.13
4771080558aphorismA short, pithy statement of a generally accepted truth or sentiment.14
4771080559ApollonianIn contrast to Bionysian, it refers to the most noble, godlike qualities of human nature and behavior.15
4771080560apostropheA locution that addresses a person or personified thing not present.16
4771080561arch(adj.) Characterized by clever or sly humor, often saucy, playful, and somewhat irreverent.17
4771080562archetypeAn abstract or ideal conception of a type; a perfectly typical example; an original model or form.18
4771080563assonanceThe repetition of two or more vowel sounds in a group of words in prose or poetry.19
4771080564bardA poet; in olden times, a performer who told heroic stories to musical accompaniment.20
4771080565bathosInsincere or overdone sentimentality.21
4771080566belle-lettresA French term for the world of books, criticism, and literature in general.22
4771080567bibliographyA list of works cited or otherwise relevant to a particular subject.23
4771080568bombastInflated, pretentious language.24
4771080569burlesqueA work of literature meant to ridicule a subject; a grotesque imitation.25
4771080570cacophonyGrating, inharmonious sounds.26
4771080571canonThe works considered the most important in a national literature or period; works widely read and studied.27
4771080572caricatureA grotesque or exaggerated likeness of striking qualities in persons and things.28
4771080573carpe diemLiterally, "seize the day"; "enjoy life while you can," a common theme in life and literature.29
4771080574circumlocutionLiterally, "talking around" a subject; i.e., discourse that avoids direct reference to a subject.30
4771080575classicA highly regarded work of literature or other art form that has withstood the test of time.31
4771080576classical, classicismDeriving from the orderly qualities of ancient Greek and Roman culture; implies formality, objectivity, simplicity, and restraint.32
4771080577clauseA structural element of a sentence, consisting of a grammatical subject and a predicate.33
4771080578independent clausessometimes called main clauses, ay stand on their own as complete sentences34
4771080579dependent clausesare used as nouns or modifiers, are incomplete sentences and cannot stand alone grammatically; they are sometimes called subordinate clauses; those that function as adjectives, nouns, or adverbs are known, respectively, as adjective, noun, and adverbial clauses35
4771080580climaxThe high point, or turning point, of a story or play.36
4771080581comparison and contrastA mode of discourse in which two or more things are compared and contrasted. Comparison often refers to similarities, contrast to differences.37
4771080582conceitA witty or ingenious thought; a diverting or highly fanciful idea, often stated in figurative language.38
4771080583concrete detailA highly specific, particular, often real, actual, or tangible detail; the opposite of abstract.39
4771080584connotationThe suggested or implied meaning of a word or phrase.40
4771080585consonanceThe repetition of two or more consonant sounds in a group of words or a unit of speech or writing.41
4771080586critiqueAn analysis or assessment of a thing or situation for the purpose of determining its nature, limitations, and conformity to a set of standards.42
4771080587cynicOne who expects and observes nothing but the worst of human conduct.43
4771080588deductive reasoningA method of reasoning by which specific definitions, conclusions, and theorems are drawn from general principles.44
4771080589denotationThe dictionary definition of a word.45
4771080590dénouementThe resolution that occurs at the end of a narrative or drama, real or imagined.46
4771080591descriptive detailGraphic, exact, and accurate presentation of the characteristics of a person, place, or thing.47
4771080592deus ex machinaIn literature, the use of an artificial device or gimmick to solve a problem.48
4771080593dictionThe choice of words in oral and written discourse.49
4771080594didacticHaving an instructive purpose; intending to convey information or teach a lesson, usually in a dry, pompous manner.50
4771080595digressionThat portion of discourse that wanders or departs from the main subject or topic.51
4771080596DionysianAs distinguished from Apollonian, the word refers to sensual, pleasure-seeking, impulses.52
4771080597dramatic ironyA circumstance in which the audience or reader knows more about a situation than a character.53
4771080598elegyA poem or prose selection that laments or meditates on the passing or death of someone or something of value.54
4771080599ellipsisThree periods (...)indicating the omission of words in a thought or quotation.55
4771080600elliptical constructionA sentence containing a deliberate omission of words.56
4771080601empathyA feeling of association or identification with an object or person.57
4771080602epicA narrative poem that tells of the adventures and exploits of a hero.58
4771080603epigramA concise but ingenious, witty, and thoughtful statement.59
4771080604euphonyPleasing, harmonious sounds.60
4771080605epithetAn adjective or phrase that expresses a striking quality of a person or thing; Can also be used to apply to vulgar or profane exclamations.61
4771080606eponymousA term for the title character of a work of literature.62
4771080607euphemismA mild or less negative usage for a harsh or blunt term.63
4771080608exegesisA detailed analysis or interpretation of a work of prose or poetry.64
4771080609exposéA factual piece of writing that reveals weaknesses, faults, frailties, or other shortcomings.65
4771080610expositionThe background and events that lead to the presentation of the main idea or purpose of an essay or other work; setting forth the meaning or purpose of a piece of writing or discourse.66
4771080611explicationThe interpretation or analysis of a text.67
4771080612extended metaphorA series of comparisons between two unlike objects.68
4771080613fableA short tale, often with nonhuman characters, from which a useful lesson or moral may be drawn.69
4771080614fallacy, fallacious reasoningAn incorrect belief or supposition based on faulty data, defective evidence, false information, or flawed logic.70
4771080615fantasyA story containing unreal, imaginary features.71
4771080616farceA comedy that contains an extravagant and nonsensical disregard of seriousness, although it may have a serious, scornful purpose.72
4771080617figure of speech, figurative languageIn contrast to literal language, figurative language implies meanings.73
4771080618frameA structure that provides a premise or setting for a narrative or other discourse.74
4771080619genreA term used to describe literary forms, such as novel, play, and essay.75
4771080620harangueA forceful sermon, lecture, or tirade.76
4771080621homilyA leture or sermon on a religious or moral theme meant to guide human behavior.77
4771080622hubrisExcessive pride that often affects tone.78
4771080623humanismA belief that emphasizes faith and optimism in human potential and creativity.79
4771080624hyperboleOverstatement; gross exaggeration for rhetorical effect.80
4771080625idyllA lyric poem or passage that describes a kind of ideal life or place.81
4771080626imageA word or phrase representing that which can be seen, touched, tasted, smelled, or felt.82
4771080627imagerythe use of images in speech and writing.83
4771080628indirect quotationA rendering of a quotation in which actual words are not stated but only approximated or paraphrased.84
4771080629inductive reasoningA method of reasoning in which a number of specific facts or examples are used to make a generalization.85
4771080630inferenceA conclusion or proposition arrived at by considering facts, observations, or some other specific data.86
4771080631invectiveA direct verbal assault; a denunciation; casting blame on someone or something.87
4771080632ironyA mode of expression in which the intended meaning is the opposite of what is stated, often implying ridicule or light sarcasm; a state of affairs or events that is the reverse of what might have been expected.88
4771080633kenningA device employed in Anglo-Saxon poetry in which the name of a thing is replaced by one of its functions or qualities.89
4771080634lampoonA mocking, satirical assault on a person or situation.90
4771080635litotesA form of understatement in which the negative of the contrary is used to achieve emphasis or intensity.91
4771080636loose sentenceA sentence that follows the customary word order of English sentences, i.e., subject-verb-objects. The main idea of the sentence is presented first and is then followed by one or more subordinate clauses.92
4771080637lyrical prosePersonal, reflective prose that reveals the speaker's thoughts and feelings about the subject.93
4771080638malapropismA confused use of words in which the appropriate word is replaced by one with a similar sound but inappropriate meaning.94
4771080639maximA saying or proverb expressing common wisdom or truth.95
4771080640melodramaA literary form in which events are exaggerated in order to create an extreme emotional response.96
4771080641metaphorA figure of speech that compares unlike objects.97
4771080642extended metaphorWhen several characteristics of the same objects are compared98
4771080643metaphorical allusionA metaphor referring to a particular person, place, or thing99
4771080644metaphysicalA term describing poetry that uses elaborate conceits, expresses the complexities of love and life, and is highly intellectual. More generally, it refers to ideas that are neither analytical nor subject to empirical verification; that is, ideas that express an attitude about which rational argument is impossible.100
4771080645metonymyA figure of speech that uses the name of one thing to represent something else with which it is associated.101
4771080646Middle EnglishThe language spoken in England roughly between 1150 and 1500 A.D.102
4771080647mock epicA parody of traditional epic form.103
4771080648mock solemnityFeigned or deliberately artificial seriousness, often for satirical purposes.104
4771080649modeThe general form, pattern, and manner of expression of a piece of discourse.105
4771080650montageA quick succession of images or impressions used to express an idea.106
4771080651moodThe emotional tone or prevailing atmosphere in a work of literature or other discourse. In grammar, it refers to the intent of a particular sentence.107
4771080652indicative moodused for statements of fact108
4771080653subjunctive moodused to express doubt or a conditional attitude109
4771080654imperative moodgive commands110
4771080655moralA brief and often simplistic lesson that a reader may infer from a work of literature.111
4771080656motifA phrase, idea, or event that through repetition serves to unify or convey a theme in an essay or other discourse.112
4771080657muse(n.) One of the ancient Greek goddesses presiding over the arts; the imaginary source of inspiration for an artist or writer. (v.) To reflect deeply; to ponder.113
4771080658mythAn imaginary story that has become an accepted part of the cultural or religious tradition of a group of society.114
4771080659narrativeA form of verse or prose (both fiction and nonfiction) that tells a story. A storyteller may use any number of narrative devices, such as skipping back and forth in time, ordering events chronologically, and ordering events to lead up to a suspenseful climax.115
4771080660naturalismA term often used as a synonym for realism; also a view of experience that is generally characterized as bleak and pessimistic.116
4771080661non sequiturA statement or idea that fails to follow logically from the one before.117
4771080662objective(adj.) Of or relating to facts and reality, as opposed to private and personal feelings and attitudes.118
4771080663odeA lyric poem usually marked by serious, respectful, and exalted feelings toward the subject.119
4771080664Old EnglishThe Anglo-Saxon language spoken from approximately 450 to 1150 A.D. in what is now Great Britain.120
4771080665omniscient narratorA narrator with unlimited awareness, understanding, and insight of characters, setting, background, and all other elements of the story.121
4771080666onomatopoeiaThe use of words whose sounds suggest their meaning.122
4771080667oxymoronA term consisting of contradictory elements juxtaposed to create a paradoxical effect.123
4771080668parableA story consisting of events from which a moral or spiritual truth may be derived.124
4771080669paradoxA statement that seems self-contradictory but is nevertheless true.125
4771080670parallel structureThe structure required for expressing two or more grammatical elements of equal rank. Coordinate idea,s compared and contrasted ideas and correlative constructions call for parallel construction.126
4771080671parodyAn imitation of a work meant to ridicule its style and subject.127
4771080672paraphraseA version of a text put into simple, everyday words or summarized for brevity.128
4771080673pastoralA work of literature dealing with rural life.129
4771080674pathetic fallacyFaulty reasoning that inappropriately ascribes human feelings to nature or nonhuman objects.130
4771080675pathosThat element in literature that stimulates pity or sorrow.131
4771080676pedanticNarrowly academic instead of broad and humane; excessively petty and meticulous.132
4771080677periodic sentenceA sentence that departs from the usual word order of English sentences by expressing its main thought only at the end. In other words, the particulars in the sentence are presented before the idea they support.133
4771080678personaThe role or facade that a character assumes or depicts to a reader or other audience.134
4771080679personificationA figure of speech in which objects and animals are given human characteristics.135
4771080680plotThe interrelationship among the events in a story136
4771080681plot linethe pattern of events, including exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution137
4771080682point of viewThe relation in which a narrator or speaker stands to a subject of discourse.138
4771080683internal POVA matter discussed in the first person has this139
4771080684external POVan observer uses this140
4771080685predicatethe part of a sentence that is not the grammatical subject. It often says something about the subject141
4771080686predicate nominativeA noun that provides another name for the subject142
4771080687proseAny discourse that is not poetry143
4771080688prose poema selection of prose that, because of its language or content, is poetic in nature144
4771080689proverbA short pithy statement of general truth that condenses common experience into memorable form.145
4771080690pseudonymA false name or alias used by writers.146
4771080691pulp fictionNovels written for mass consumption, often emphasizing exciting and titillating plots.147
4771080692punA humorous play on words, using similar-sounding or identical words to suggest different meanings.148
4771080693realismThe depiction of people, things, and events as they really are without idealization or exaggeration for effect.149
4771080694rebuttal/ refutationThe part of discourse wherein opposing arguments are anticipated and answered.150
4771080695reiterationRepetition of an idea using different words, often for emphasis or other effect.151
4771080696repetitionReuse of the same words, phrases, or ideas for rhetorical effect, usually to emphasize a point.152
4771080697retractionThe withdrawal of a previously stated idea or opinion.153
4771080698rhetoricThe language of a work and its style; words, often highly emotional, used to convince or sway an audience.154
4771080699rhetorical modeA general term that identifies discourse according to its chief purpose. Includes exposition, argumentation, description, and narration.155
4771080700expositionto explain, analyze, or discuss an idea156
4771080701argumentationto prove a point or to persuade157
4771080702descriptionto recreate or present with details158
4771080703narrationto relate an anecdote or story159
4771080704rhetorical questionA question to which the audience already knows the answer; a question asked merely for effect with no answer expected.160
4771080705rhetorical stanceLanguage that conveys a speaker's attitude or opinion with regard to a particular subject.161
4771080706rhymeThe repetition of similar sounds at regular intervals, used mostly in poetry but not unheard of in prose.162
4771080707rhythmThe pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables that make up speech and writing.163
4771080708romanceAn extended narrative about improbable events and extraordinary people in exotic places.164
4771080709sarcasmA sharp, caustic attitude conveyed in words through jibes, taunts, or other remarks; differs from irony, which is more subtle.165
4771080710satireA literary style used to poke fun at, attack, or ridicule and idea, vice, or foible, often for the purpose of inducing change.166
4771080711sentence structureThe arrangement of the parts of a sentence. A sentence may be simple, compound, or complex. Sentences may also contain any of these structures in combination with each other. Each variation leaves a different impression on the reader, and along with other rhetorical devices, may create a countless array of effects.167
4771080712simple sentenceone subject and one verb168
4771080713compound sentencetwo or more independent clauses joined by a conjunction169
4771080714complex sentencean independent claus plus one or more dependent clauses170
4771080715sentimentA synonym for view or feeling; also a refined and tender emotion in literature.171
4771080716sentimentalA term that describes characters' excessive emotional response to experience; also nauseatingly nostalgic and mawkish.172
4771080717settingAn environment that consists of time, place, historical milieu, and social, political, and even spiritual circumstances.173
4771080718simileA figurative comparison using the words like or as.174
4771080719stream of consciousnessA style of writing in which the author tries to reproduce the random flow of thoughts in the human mind.175
4771080720styleThe manner in which an author uses and arranges words, shapes ideas, forms sentences, and creates a structure to convey ideas.176
4771080721stylistic devicesA general term referring to diction, syntax, tone, figurative language, and all other elements that contribute to the "style" or manner of a given piece of discourse.177
4771080722subject complementThe name of a grammatical unit that is comprised of predicate nominatives and predicate adjectives.178
4771080723subjective(adj.) Of or relating to private and personal feelings and attitudes as opposed to facts and reality.179
4771080724subtextThe implied meaning that underlies the main meaning of an essay or other work.180
4771080725syllogismA form of deductive reasoning in which given certain ideas or facts, other ideas or facts must follow. (think transitive property)181
4771080726symbolismThe use of one object to evoke ideas and associations not literally part of the original object.182
4771080727synecdocheA figure of speech in which a part signifies the whole or the whole signifies the part. When the name of a material stands for the thing itself, that, too, is this.183
4771080728syntaxThe organization of language into meaningful structure; every sentence has a particular this, or pattern of words.184
4771080729themeThe main idea of meaning, often an abstract idea upon which an essay or other form of discourse is built.185
4771080730thesisThe main idea of a piece of discourse; the statement or proposition that a speaker or writer wishes to advance, illustrate, prove, or defend.186
4771080731toneThe author's attitude toward the subject being written about. This is the characteristic emotion that pervades a work or part of a work -- the spirt or quality that is the word's emotional essence.187
4771080732tragedyA form of literature in which the hero is destroyed by some character flaw or by a set of forces that cause the hero considerable anguish.188
4771080733transitionA stylistic device used to create a link between ideas. These often endow discourse with continuity and coherence.189
4771080734tropeThe generic name for a figure of speech such as image, symbol, simile, and metaphor.190
4771080735understatementA restrained statement that departs from what could be said; a studied avoidance of emphasis or exaggeration, often to create a particular effect.191
4771080736verbal ironyA discrepancy between the true meaning of a situation and the literal meaning of the written or spoken words.192
4771080737verseA synonym for poetry; also a group of lines in a song or poem; also a single line of poetry.193
4771080738verisimilitudeSimilar to the truth; the quality of realism in a work that persuades readers that they are getting a vision of life as it is or could have been.194
4771080739voiceThe real or assumed personality used by a writer or speaker.195
4771080740active voice(refers to the use of verbs) A verb is in this when it expresses an action performed by its subject. Stylistically, this leads to more economical and vigorous writing.196
4771080741passive voice(refers to the use of verbs) A verb is in this when it expresses an action performed upon its subject or when the subject is the result of the action.197
4771080742whimsyAn object, device, or creation that is fanciful or rooted in unreality.198
4771080743witThe quickness of intellect and the power and talent for saying brilliant things that surprise and delight by their unexpectedness; the power to comment subtly and pointedly on the foibles of the passing scene.199
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Ap Language Vocabulary Flashcards

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7418113159SuffusedGradually spread through or over0
7418113160EnigmaticDifficult to interpret or understand, mysterious1
7418113161RogueA dishonest or principled man2
7418113162PurportedAppear or claim to be something or do something3
7418113163EgregiousOutstandingly bad, shocking4
7418113164BrazenBold & without shame5
7418113165AberrationA departure from what is normal, usual or expected6
7418113166UbiquityThe fact of appearing everywhere or being very common7
7451835469axiomaticself-evident, expressing a universally accepted principle8
7451835470DefinitiveDefining for all others; standard9
7451835471empiricalbased on observation or experiment10
7451835472Hypotheticalbased on an assumption or guess11
7451835473Presupposeto assume in advance; take for granted12
7451835474rationalizeto make an excuse for13
7451835475RebuttalAddressing and disproving the counterclaim (an opposing side)14
7451835476Repudiateto disown, reject, or deny the validity of15
7451835477SynthesisCombining parts into a whole16
7451835478VerifiableAble to be proved true by the presentation of evidence or testimony17
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AP Language Rhetorical Terms 21-40 Flashcards

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7093161861LitotesFrom the Greek word "simple" or "plain." It is a figure of thought in which a point is affirmed by negating its opposite. It is a special form of understatement, where the surface denial serves, through ironic contrast, to reinforce the underlying assertion.0
7093161862Loose sentence -A type of sentence in which the main idea (independent clause) comes first, followed by dependent grammatical units such as phrases and clauses. If a period were placed at the end of the independent clause, the clause would be a complete sentence.1
7093161863Metaphor -A figure of speech using implied comparison of seemingly unlike things or the substitution of one for the other, suggesting some similarity. Ex. Her smile was brighter than the sun.2
7093161864MetonymyA term from the Greek meaning "changed label" or "substitute name." It is a figure of speech in which the name of one object is substituted for that of another closely associated with it.3
7093161865OnomatopoeiaA figure of speech in which natural sounds are imitated in the sounds of words. Simple examples include such words as buzz, hiss, hum, crack, whinny, and murmur.4
7093161866Oxymoron -From the Greek for "pointedly foolish," it is a figure of speech wherein the author groups apparently contradictory terms to suggest a paradox. Ex. I must be cruel only to be kind.5
7093161867Paradox -A statement that appears to be self-contradictory or opposed to common sense but upon closer inspection contains some degree of truth or validity. Ex. What a pity that youth must be wasted on the young.6
7093161868Parallelism -This term comes from Greek roots meaning "beside one another." It refers to the grammatical or rhetorical framing of words, phrases, sentences, or paragraphs to give structural similarity. IE "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity . . ."7
7093161869Parody -A work that closely imitates the style or content of another with the specific aim of comic effect and/or ridicule.8
7093161870PedanticAn adjective that describes words, phrases, or general tone that is overly scholarly, academic, or bookish. Ex. An English teacher who corrects every grammar mistake.9
7093161871Periodic sentence -A sentence that presents its central meaning in a main clause at the end. This independent clause is preceded by a phrase or clause that cannot stand alone. For example: "Ecstatic with my AP score, I let out a loud, joyful shout!"10
7093161872Personification -A figure of speech in which the author presents or describes concepts, animals, or inanimate objects by endowing them with human attributes or emotions.11
7093161873PolysyndetonFigure of addition and emphasis which intentionally employs a series of conjunctions (FANBOYS: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) not normally found in successive words, phrases or clauses; the deliberate and excessive use of conjunctions in successive words or clauses.12
7093161874Rhetorical QuestionDiffers from hypophora in that it is not answered by the writer because its answer is obvious or obviously desired, and usually just a yes or no answer would suffice. It is used for effect, emphasis, or provocation, or for drawing a concluding statement from the fact at hand.13
7093161875Sarcasm -From the Greek meaning "to tear flesh," this involves bitter, caustic language that is meant to hurt or ridicule someone or something.14
7093161876Satire -A work that targets human vices and follies or social institutions and conventions for reform or ridicule. It can be recognized by the many devices used effectively: irony, wit, parody, caricature, hyperbole, understatement, and sarcasm.15
7093161877Simile -A figure of speech that makes a comparison, showing similarities between two different things. Unlike a metaphor, it draws resemblance with the help of the words "like" or "as". Ex. "Her smile was like the sun."16
7093161878Semantics -The branch of linguistics that studies the meaning of words, their historical and psychological development, their connotations, and their relation to one another.17
7093161879SyllogismFrom the Greek for "reckoning together, " it is a deductive system of formal logic that presents two premises (the first one called "major" and the second, "minor") that inevitably lead to a sound conclusion. A frequently cited example proceeds as follows; Major premise: All men are mortal Minor premise: Socrates is a man. Conclusion: Therefore, Socrates is mortal.18
7093161880Synecdocheis a type of metaphor in which the part stands for the whole, the whole for a part, the genus for the species, the species for the genus, the material for the thing made, or in short, any portion, section, or main quality for the whole or the thing itself (or vice versa). Ex. Give us this day our daily bread.19
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AP Language Literary Terms, AP Language terms Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
9884973415Cumulative (Loose) Sentencebegins with a main clause that is followed by phrases and/or clauses that modify the main clause. These phrases or clauses add information to the main or independent clause.0
9884973416Periodic Sentencea sentence that, by leaving the completion of its main clause to the end, produces an effect of suspense.1
9884973417Litotes/Understatementa figure of speech in which a negative statement is used to affirm a positive statement.2
9884973418Warrantexpresses the assumption necessarily shared by the speaker and the audience.3
9884973419Ethosan appeal to ethics and it is a means of convincing someone of the character or credibility of the persuader.4
9884973420Pathosan appeal to emotion, and is a way of convincing an audience of an argument by creating an emotional response.5
9884973421Logosan appeal to logic, and is a way of persuading an audience by reason.6
9884973422Concessionan acknowledgement that an opposing argument may be true or reasonable.7
9884973423SyllogismA logical structure that uses the major premise and minor premise to reach a necessary conclusion.8
9884973424Major premisecontains the term that is the predicate of the conclusion.9
9884973425Minor premisecontains the term that is the subject of the conclusion.10
9884973426Inductiona logical process wherein you reason from particulars to universal, using specific cases in order to draw a conclusion, which is also called a generalization.11
9884973427Deductiona logical process wherein you reach a conclusion by starting with a general principle or universal truth (a major premise).12
9884973428Equivocationa fallacy of argument in which a lie is given the appearance of truth, or in which the truth is misrepresented in deceptive language.13
9884973429Refutationa denial of the validity of an opposing argument.14
9884973430Dictiona speaker's choice of words. Analysis of diction looks at these choices and what they add to the speaker's message.15
9884973431Similea figure of speech used to explain or clarify an idea by comparing it explicitly to something else, using words like, as, or as though.16
9884973432Metaphorfigure of speech that compares two unlike things without using like or as.17
9884973433Anaphorathe intentional repetition of beginning clauses in order to create an artistic effect.18
9884973434Rhetoricit is the art of finding ways of persuading an audience.19
9884973435Rhetorical Trianglespeaker-subject-audience20
9884973436Allusionbrief reference to a person, event, or place (real or fictitious) to to a work of art.21
9884973437Hyperboledeliberate exaggeration used for emphasis or to produce a comic or ironic effect; an overstatement to make a point.22
9884973438Personificationattribution of a lifelike quality to an inanimate object or an idea.23
9884973439Asyndetonomission of conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses, or words.24
9884973440Polysyndetonthe deliberate use of multiple conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses or words.25
9884973441Parallelismsimilarity of structure in a pair or series of related words, phrases, or clauses.26
9884973442Antithesisopposition, or contrast or ideas or words in a parallel construction.27
9884973443Enumerationto mention separately as if in counting; name one by one; specify, as in list28
9884973444Rhetorical QuestionFigure of speech in the form of a question posed for the rhetorical effect rather than for the purpose of getting an answer. Ex.) Are you stupid?29
9884973445Chiasmusthe reversal in the order of words in two otherwise parallel phrases. Ex.) He went to the country, the country went to him.30
9884973446RebuttalIn the Toulon model, a rebuttal gives voice to possible objections.31
9884973447Fallacy of Argumenta flaw in the structure of an argument that renders its conclusion invalid or suspect.32
9884973448Bandwagon Appeala fallacy of argument in which a course of action is recommended on the grounds that everyone else is following it.33
9884973449Begging the Questiona fallacy of argument in which a claim is based on the very grounds that are in doubt or dispute.34
9884973450Anecdotea brief story used to illustrate a point or claim.35
9884973451Modes of DisclosureExposition- illustrates a point Narration- tells a story Description- creates a sensory image Argumentation- takes a position on an issue and defends it.36
9884973452Examplea specific event, person, or detail of an idea cited and/or developed to support or illustrate a thesis or topic.37
9884973453Contrast/ Comparisona method of presenting similarities and differences between or among at least two persons, places, things, ideas, etc. may be organized by: Subject by subject Point by point Combination38
9884973454Cause and Effectestablishes a relationship: B is the result of A.39
9884973455Classificationseparates items into major categories and details the characteristics of each group is placed within the category.40
9884973456Processsimply "how to" do something is done. It can have one of two purposes. It can either give instructions or inform the reader about how something is done.41
9884973457Definitionidentifies the class to which a specific term belongs and those characteristics which make it different from all the other items in that class.42
9884973458Narrationis nothing more than storytelling. There is a beginning, a middle, and an end.43
9884973459Descriptionwriting that appeals to the senses. It can be objective, which is scientific or clinical, or it can be impressionistic, which tries to involve the reader's emotions or feelings.44
9884973460Dogmatism`a fallacy of argument in which a claim is supported on the grounds that it's the only conclusion acceptable within a given community.45
9884973461False Dilemma or Dichotomya fallacy of argument in which a complicated issue is misrepresented as offering only two possible alternatives, one of which is often made to seem vastly preferable to the other.46
9884973462False authoritya fallacy of argument in which a claim is based on the expertise of someone who lacks appropriate credentials.47
9884973463Faulty causalitya fallacy of argument making the unwarranted assumption that because one event follows another, the first event causes the second. Also called post hoc, ergo propter hoc, this forms the basis of many superstitions.48
9884973464Hasty generalizationa fallacy of argument in which an inference is drawn from insufficient data.49
9884973465Non sequitora fallacy of argument in which claims, reasons, or warrants fail to connect logically; one point doesn't follow from another.50
9884973485AllegoryThe device of using character and/or story elements symbolically to represent an abstraction in addition to the literal meaning. A story in which each aspect of the story has a symbolic meaning outside the tale itself.51
9884973486AlliterationThe repetition of sounds, especially initial consonant sounds in two or more neighboring words (as in "she sells sea shells").52
9884973487AllusionA direct or indirect reference to something which is presumably commonly known, such as an event, book, myth, place, or work of art.53
9884973488AmbiguityThe multiple meanings, either intentional or unintentional, of a word, phrase, sentence, or passage.54
9884973489AnalogyA similarity or comparison between two different things or the relationship between them.55
9884973490AntecedentThe word, phrase, or clause referred to by a pronoun.56
9884973491Antithesisthe opposition or contrast of ideas; the direct opposite.57
9884973492AphorismA terse statement of known authorship which expresses a general truth or a moral principle. (If the authorship is unknown, the statement is generally considered to be a folk proverb.)58
9884973493ApostropheA prayer like figure of speech that directly addresses an absent or imaginary person or a personified abstraction, such as liberty or love. It is an address to someone or something that cannot answer.59
9884973494AtmosphereThe emotional nod created by the entirety of a literary work, established partly by the setting and partly by the author's choice of objects that are described.60
9884973495Caricaturea verbal description, the purpose of which is to exaggerate or distort, for comic effect, a person's distinctive physical features or other characteristics.61
9884973496ClauseA grammatical unit that contains both a subject and a verb.62
9884973497Colloquial/ColloquialismThe use of slang or informalities in speech or writing.63
9884973498Literary ConceitA fanciful expression, usually in the form of an extended metaphor or surprising analogy between seemingly dissimilar objects; displays intellectual cleverness through unusual comparisons that make good sense64
9884973499ConnotationThe non-literal, associative meaning of a word; the implied, suggested meaning.65
9884973500DenotationThe strict, literal, dictionary definition of a word, devoid of any emotion, attitude, or color.66
9884973501DictionRelated to style, diction refers to the writer's word choices, especially with regard to their correctness, clearness, or effectiveness.67
9884973502DidacticFrom the Greek, didactic literally means "teaching."68
9884973503EuphemismFrom the Greek for "good speech," euphemisms are a more agreeable or less offensive substitute for a generally unpleasant word or concept - POLITICALLY CORRECT69
9884973504Extended MetaphorA metaphor developed at great length, occurring frequently in or throughout a work.70
9884973505Figurative LanguageWriting or speech that is not intended to carry literal meaning and is usually meant to be imaginative and vivid71
9884973506Figure of speechA device used to produce figurative language. Many compare dissimilar things. Figures of speech include apotrophe hyperbole irony metaphor oxymoron paradox personification simile syneddoche understatement72
9884973507GenreThe major category into which a literary work fits. The basic divisions of literature are prose, poetry, and drama.73
9884973508HomilyThis term literally means "sermon," but more informally, it can include any serious talk, speech, or lecture involving moral or spiritual advice.74
9884973509HyperboleA figure of speech using deliberate exaggeration or overstatement. (The literal Greek meaning is "overshoot.")75
9884973510ImageryThe sensory details or figurative language used to describe, arouse emotion, or represent abstractions.76
9884973511Inference/inferTo draw a reasonable conclusion from the information presented.77
9884973512Invectivean emotionally violent, verbal denunciation or attack using strong, abusive language.78
9884973513Irony/ironicThe contrast between what is stated explicitly and what is really meant, or the difference between what appears to be and what is actually true.79
9884973514Loose sentence/non-periodic sentenceA type of sentence in which the main idea (independent clause) comes first, followed by dependent grammatical units such as phrases and clauses.80
9884973515MetaphorA figure of speech using implied comparison of seemingly unlike things or the substitution of one for the other, suggesting some similarity.81
9884973516MetonymyA figure of speech in which the name of one object is substituted for that of another closely associated with it.82
9884973517MoodThe prevailing atmosphere or emotional aura of a work.83
9884973518NarrativeThe telling of a story or an account of an event or series of events.84
9884973519onomatopoeiaA figure of speech in which natural sounds are imitated in the sounds of words.85
9884973520OxymoronOxymoron is a figure of speech wherein the author groups apparently contradictory terms to suggest a paradox.86
9884973521ParadoxA statement that appears to be self-contradictory or opposed to common sense but upon closer inspection contains some degree of truth or validity.87
9884973522Parallelismthe use of successive verbal constructions in poetry or prose that correspond in grammatical structure, sound, meter, meaning, etc.88
9884973523ParodyA work that closely imitates the style or content of another with the specific aim of comic effect and/or ridicule.89
9884973524PedanticAn adjective that describes words, phrases, or general tone that is overly scholarly, academic, or bookish (language that might be described as "show-offy"; using big words for the sake of using big words).90
9884973525Periodic sentenceThe opposite of loose sentence, a sentence that presents its central meaning in a main clause at the end.91
9884973526PersonificationA figure of speech in which the author presents or describes concepts, animals, or inanimate objects by endowing them with human attributes or emotions.92
9884973527Point of viewIn literature, the perspective from which a story is told.93
9884973528Prosewritten or spoken language in its ordinary form, without metrical structure.94
9884973529RepetitionThe duplication, either exact or approximate, of any element of language, such as a sound, word, phrase, clause, sentence, or grammatical pattern.95
9884973530RhetoricFrom the Greek for "orator," this term describes the principles governing the art of writing effectively, eloquently, and persuasively.96
9884973531SarcasmInvolves bitter, caustic language that is meant to hurt or ridicule someone or something.97
9884973532SatireA work that targets human vices and follies or social institutions and conventions for reform or ridicule.98
9884973533Subordinate clauseLike all clauses, this word group contains both a subject and a verb (plus any accompanying phrases or modifiers), but unlike the independent clause, this clause cannot stand alone; it does not express a complete thought.99
9884973534SyllogismA deductive system of formal logic that presents two premises (the first one called "major" and the second called "minor") that inevitably lead to a sound conclusion.100
9884973535Symbol/symbolismGenerally, anything that represents itself and stands for something else.101
9884973536SyntaxThe way an author chooses to join words into phrases, clauses, and sentences.102
9884973537ThemeThe central idea or message of a work, the insight it offers into life.103
9884973538ThesisThe sentence or group of sentences that directly expresses the author's opinion, purpose, meaning, or position.104
9884973539ToneDescribes the author's attitude toward his material, the audience, or both.105
9884973540TransitionA word or phrase that links different ideas. Used especially, although not exclusively, in expository and argumentative writing, effectively signal a shift from one idea to another.106
9884973541Understatementthe ironic minimalizing of fact; presents something as less significant than it is.107
9884973542Witin modern usage, intellectually amusing language that surprises and delights.108
9884973543Slippery SlopeThis is the failure to provide evidence to support a claim that one event will lead to a catastrophic chain of events.109
9884973544straw manWhen a writer argues against a claim that nobody actually holds or is universally considered weak.110
9884973545EthosAn appeal to credibility. The writer is seeking to convince you that he or she has the background, history, skills, and/or expertise to speak on the issue.111
9884973546JuxtapositionMaking on idea more dramatic by placing it next to its opposite.112
9884973547LogosAn appeal to reason.113
9884973548PathosAn appeal to emotion.114
9884973549Rhetorical QuestionA question whose answer is assumed.115
9884973550SimileA critical figure of speech in an argument when what is unknown is compared to something that is known using the word "like," "as," or "than" in order to better perceive its importance.116
9884973551rhetorical appealthe persuasive devices by which a writer tries to sway an audience's attention and response to any given work. See logos, ethos, and pathos.117
9884973552descriptive detailWhen an essay uses this phrase, look for the writer's sensory description.118
9884973553devicesThe figures of speech, syntax, diction, and other stylistic elements that collectively produce a particular artistic effect.119
9884973554narrative devicesThis term describes the tools of the storyteller (also used in nonfiction), such as ordering events so that they build to a climactic moment or withholding information until a crucial or appropriate moment when revealing it creates a desired effect. On the essay portion of the exam, this term may also apply to biographical and autobiographical writing.120
9884973555narrative techniquesThe style of telling the "story," even if the passage is nonfiction. Concentrate on the order of events and on their detail in evaluating a writer's technique.121
9884973556Ad hominem argumentAn argument attacking an individual's character rather than his or her position on an issue122
9884973557AnaphoraFigure of repetition that occurs when the first word or set of words in one sentence, clause, or phrase is/are repeated at or very near the beginning of successive sentences, clauses, or phrases; repetition of the initial words over successive phrases or clauses123
9884973558AnecdoteA brief story that illustrates or makes a point124
9884973559Appeal to authorityA fallacy in which a speaker or writer seeks to persuade not by giving evidence but by appealing to the respect people have for a famous person or institution.125
9884973560Argumentationone of the four forms of discourse which uses logic, ethics, and emotional appeals (logos, ethos, pathos) to develop an effective means to convince the reader to think or act in a certain way.126
9884973561AssonanceRepetition of a vowel sound within two or more words in close proximity127
9884973562AsyndetonA series of words separated by commas (with no conjunction).128
9884973563toneA speaker's, author's, or character's disposition toward or opinion of a subject.129
9884973564audienceOne's listener or readership; those to whom a speech or piece of writing is addressed.130
9884973565Balanced sentenceA sentence in which words, phrases, or clauses are set off against each other to emphasize a contrast131
9884973566Begging the questionOften called circular reasoning, __ occurs when the believability of the evidence depends on the believability of the claim.132
9884973466understatement"I have to have this operation. It isn't very serious. I have this tiny little tumor on the brain." Holden Caulfield, Catcher in the Rye133
9884973467parallelism"My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." John F. Kennedy134
9884973468allusionThe rise in poverty will unlock the Pandora's box of crimes.135
9884973469hyperbole"I'll love you, dear, I'll love you/Till China and Africa meet,/And the river jumps over the mountain"136
9884973470aphorism"Having nothing, nothing can he lose."137
9884973471metonymy"Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears." Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, Act I138
9884973472invective"I cannot but conclude the bulk of your natives to be the most pernicious race of little odious vermin that nature ever suffered to crawl upon the surface of the earth." Jonathan Swift Gulliver's Travels139
9884973473antithesis"To err is human; to forgive divine." Alexander Pope "An Essay on Criticism"140
9884973474euphemism"I am one, sir, that comes to tell you your daughter and the Moor are now making the beast with two backs." William Shakespeare Othello141
9884973475periodic sentenceIn spite of heavy snow and cold temperatures, the game continued.142
9884973476paradox"Whatever you do will be insignificant, but it is very important that you do it." -Gandhi143
9884973477alliteration"His soul swooned slowly as he heard the snow falling faintly through the universe and faintly falling, like the descent of their last end, upon all the living and the dead."144
9884973478chiasmus"he heard the snow falling faintly through the universe and faintly falling"145
9884973479oxymoron"Yet I should kill thee with much cherishing. / Good night, good night! Parting is such sweet sorrow, / That I shall say good night till it be morrow."146
9884973480personification"Pearl Button swung on the little gate in front of the House of Boxes. It was the early afternoon of a sunshiny day with little winds playing hide-and-seek in it."147
9884973481onomatopoeia"He saw nothing and heard nothing but he could feel his heart pounding and then he heard the clack on stone and the leaping, dropping clicks of a small rock falling."148
9884973482inverted syntax"Patience you must have, my young padawan."149
9884973483spatial description"In my pantry, coffee, tea powder, and sugar have been kept in the top shelf. Flour, canned food, and dry pasta are on the second shelf."150
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AP Language Literary Terms, AP Language terms Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
9769611351Cumulative (Loose) Sentencebegins with a main clause that is followed by phrases and/or clauses that modify the main clause. These phrases or clauses add information to the main or independent clause.0
9769611352Periodic Sentencea sentence that, by leaving the completion of its main clause to the end, produces an effect of suspense.1
9769611353Litotes/Understatementa figure of speech in which a negative statement is used to affirm a positive statement.2
9769611354Warrantexpresses the assumption necessarily shared by the speaker and the audience.3
9769611355Ethosan appeal to ethics and it is a means of convincing someone of the character or credibility of the persuader.4
9769611356Pathosan appeal to emotion, and is a way of convincing an audience of an argument by creating an emotional response.5
9769611357Logosan appeal to logic, and is a way of persuading an audience by reason.6
9769611358Concessionan acknowledgement that an opposing argument may be true or reasonable.7
9769611359SyllogismA logical structure that uses the major premise and minor premise to reach a necessary conclusion.8
9769611360Major premisecontains the term that is the predicate of the conclusion.9
9769611361Minor premisecontains the term that is the subject of the conclusion.10
9769611362Inductiona logical process wherein you reason from particulars to universal, using specific cases in order to draw a conclusion, which is also called a generalization.11
9769611363Deductiona logical process wherein you reach a conclusion by starting with a general principle or universal truth (a major premise).12
9769611364Equivocationa fallacy of argument in which a lie is given the appearance of truth, or in which the truth is misrepresented in deceptive language.13
9769611365Refutationa denial of the validity of an opposing argument.14
9769611366Dictiona speaker's choice of words. Analysis of diction looks at these choices and what they add to the speaker's message.15
9769611367Similea figure of speech used to explain or clarify an idea by comparing it explicitly to something else, using words like, as, or as though.16
9769611368Metaphorfigure of speech that compares two unlike things without using like or as.17
9769611369Anaphorathe intentional repetition of beginning clauses in order to create an artistic effect.18
9769611370Rhetoricit is the art of finding ways of persuading an audience.19
9769611371Rhetorical Trianglespeaker-subject-audience20
9769611372Allusionbrief reference to a person, event, or place (real or fictitious) to to a work of art.21
9769611373Hyperboledeliberate exaggeration used for emphasis or to produce a comic or ironic effect; an overstatement to make a point.22
9769611374Personificationattribution of a lifelike quality to an inanimate object or an idea.23
9769611375Asyndetonomission of conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses, or words.24
9769611376Polysyndetonthe deliberate use of multiple conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses or words.25
9769611377Parallelismsimilarity of structure in a pair or series of related words, phrases, or clauses.26
9769611378Antithesisopposition, or contrast or ideas or words in a parallel construction.27
9769611379Enumerationto mention separately as if in counting; name one by one; specify, as in list28
9769611380Rhetorical QuestionFigure of speech in the form of a question posed for the rhetorical effect rather than for the purpose of getting an answer. Ex.) Are you stupid?29
9769611381Chiasmusthe reversal in the order of words in two otherwise parallel phrases. Ex.) He went to the country, the country went to him.30
9769611382RebuttalIn the Toulon model, a rebuttal gives voice to possible objections.31
9769611383Fallacy of Argumenta flaw in the structure of an argument that renders its conclusion invalid or suspect.32
9769611384Bandwagon Appeala fallacy of argument in which a course of action is recommended on the grounds that everyone else is following it.33
9769611385Begging the Questiona fallacy of argument in which a claim is based on the very grounds that are in doubt or dispute.34
9769611386Anecdotea brief story used to illustrate a point or claim.35
9769611387Modes of DisclosureExposition- illustrates a point Narration- tells a story Description- creates a sensory image Argumentation- takes a position on an issue and defends it.36
9769611388Examplea specific event, person, or detail of an idea cited and/or developed to support or illustrate a thesis or topic.37
9769611389Contrast/ Comparisona method of presenting similarities and differences between or among at least two persons, places, things, ideas, etc. may be organized by: Subject by subject Point by point Combination38
9769611390Cause and Effectestablishes a relationship: B is the result of A.39
9769611391Classificationseparates items into major categories and details the characteristics of each group is placed within the category.40
9769611392Processsimply "how to" do something is done. It can have one of two purposes. It can either give instructions or inform the reader about how something is done.41
9769611393Definitionidentifies the class to which a specific term belongs and those characteristics which make it different from all the other items in that class.42
9769611394Narrationis nothing more than storytelling. There is a beginning, a middle, and an end.43
9769611395Descriptionwriting that appeals to the senses. It can be objective, which is scientific or clinical, or it can be impressionistic, which tries to involve the reader's emotions or feelings.44
9769611396Dogmatism`a fallacy of argument in which a claim is supported on the grounds that it's the only conclusion acceptable within a given community.45
9769611397False Dilemma or Dichotomya fallacy of argument in which a complicated issue is misrepresented as offering only two possible alternatives, one of which is often made to seem vastly preferable to the other.46
9769611398False authoritya fallacy of argument in which a claim is based on the expertise of someone who lacks appropriate credentials.47
9769611399Faulty causalitya fallacy of argument making the unwarranted assumption that because one event follows another, the first event causes the second. Also called post hoc, ergo propter hoc, this forms the basis of many superstitions.48
9769611400Hasty generalizationa fallacy of argument in which an inference is drawn from insufficient data.49
9769611401Non sequitora fallacy of argument in which claims, reasons, or warrants fail to connect logically; one point doesn't follow from another.50
9769611422AllegoryThe device of using character and/or story elements symbolically to represent an abstraction in addition to the literal meaning. A story in which each aspect of the story has a symbolic meaning outside the tale itself.51
9769611423AlliterationThe repetition of sounds, especially initial consonant sounds in two or more neighboring words (as in "she sells sea shells").52
9769611424AllusionA direct or indirect reference to something which is presumably commonly known, such as an event, book, myth, place, or work of art.53
9769611425AmbiguityThe multiple meanings, either intentional or unintentional, of a word, phrase, sentence, or passage.54
9769611426AnalogyA similarity or comparison between two different things or the relationship between them.55
9769611427AntecedentThe word, phrase, or clause referred to by a pronoun.56
9769611428Antithesisthe opposition or contrast of ideas; the direct opposite.57
9769611429AphorismA terse statement of known authorship which expresses a general truth or a moral principle. (If the authorship is unknown, the statement is generally considered to be a folk proverb.)58
9769611430ApostropheA prayer like figure of speech that directly addresses an absent or imaginary person or a personified abstraction, such as liberty or love. It is an address to someone or something that cannot answer.59
9769611431AtmosphereThe emotional nod created by the entirety of a literary work, established partly by the setting and partly by the author's choice of objects that are described.60
9769611432Caricaturea verbal description, the purpose of which is to exaggerate or distort, for comic effect, a person's distinctive physical features or other characteristics.61
9769611433ClauseA grammatical unit that contains both a subject and a verb.62
9769611434Colloquial/ColloquialismThe use of slang or informalities in speech or writing.63
9769611435Literary ConceitA fanciful expression, usually in the form of an extended metaphor or surprising analogy between seemingly dissimilar objects; displays intellectual cleverness through unusual comparisons that make good sense64
9769611436ConnotationThe non-literal, associative meaning of a word; the implied, suggested meaning.65
9769611437DenotationThe strict, literal, dictionary definition of a word, devoid of any emotion, attitude, or color.66
9769611438DictionRelated to style, diction refers to the writer's word choices, especially with regard to their correctness, clearness, or effectiveness.67
9769611439DidacticFrom the Greek, didactic literally means "teaching."68
9769611440EuphemismFrom the Greek for "good speech," euphemisms are a more agreeable or less offensive substitute for a generally unpleasant word or concept - POLITICALLY CORRECT69
9769611441Extended MetaphorA metaphor developed at great length, occurring frequently in or throughout a work.70
9769611442Figurative LanguageWriting or speech that is not intended to carry literal meaning and is usually meant to be imaginative and vivid71
9769611443Figure of speechA device used to produce figurative language. Many compare dissimilar things. Figures of speech include apotrophe hyperbole irony metaphor oxymoron paradox personification simile syneddoche understatement72
9769611444GenreThe major category into which a literary work fits. The basic divisions of literature are prose, poetry, and drama.73
9769611445HomilyThis term literally means "sermon," but more informally, it can include any serious talk, speech, or lecture involving moral or spiritual advice.74
9769611446HyperboleA figure of speech using deliberate exaggeration or overstatement. (The literal Greek meaning is "overshoot.")75
9769611447ImageryThe sensory details or figurative language used to describe, arouse emotion, or represent abstractions.76
9769611448Inference/inferTo draw a reasonable conclusion from the information presented.77
9769611449Invectivean emotionally violent, verbal denunciation or attack using strong, abusive language.78
9769611450Irony/ironicThe contrast between what is stated explicitly and what is really meant, or the difference between what appears to be and what is actually true.79
9769611451Loose sentence/non-periodic sentenceA type of sentence in which the main idea (independent clause) comes first, followed by dependent grammatical units such as phrases and clauses.80
9769611452MetaphorA figure of speech using implied comparison of seemingly unlike things or the substitution of one for the other, suggesting some similarity.81
9769611453MetonymyA figure of speech in which the name of one object is substituted for that of another closely associated with it.82
9769611454MoodThe prevailing atmosphere or emotional aura of a work.83
9769611455NarrativeThe telling of a story or an account of an event or series of events.84
9769611456onomatopoeiaA figure of speech in which natural sounds are imitated in the sounds of words.85
9769611457OxymoronOxymoron is a figure of speech wherein the author groups apparently contradictory terms to suggest a paradox.86
9769611458ParadoxA statement that appears to be self-contradictory or opposed to common sense but upon closer inspection contains some degree of truth or validity.87
9769611459Parallelismthe use of successive verbal constructions in poetry or prose that correspond in grammatical structure, sound, meter, meaning, etc.88
9769611460ParodyA work that closely imitates the style or content of another with the specific aim of comic effect and/or ridicule.89
9769611461PedanticAn adjective that describes words, phrases, or general tone that is overly scholarly, academic, or bookish (language that might be described as "show-offy"; using big words for the sake of using big words).90
9769611462Periodic sentenceThe opposite of loose sentence, a sentence that presents its central meaning in a main clause at the end.91
9769611463PersonificationA figure of speech in which the author presents or describes concepts, animals, or inanimate objects by endowing them with human attributes or emotions.92
9769611464Point of viewIn literature, the perspective from which a story is told.93
9769611465Prosewritten or spoken language in its ordinary form, without metrical structure.94
9769611466RepetitionThe duplication, either exact or approximate, of any element of language, such as a sound, word, phrase, clause, sentence, or grammatical pattern.95
9769611467RhetoricFrom the Greek for "orator," this term describes the principles governing the art of writing effectively, eloquently, and persuasively.96
9769611468SarcasmInvolves bitter, caustic language that is meant to hurt or ridicule someone or something.97
9769611469SatireA work that targets human vices and follies or social institutions and conventions for reform or ridicule.98
9769611470Subordinate clauseLike all clauses, this word group contains both a subject and a verb (plus any accompanying phrases or modifiers), but unlike the independent clause, this clause cannot stand alone; it does not express a complete thought.99
9769611471SyllogismA deductive system of formal logic that presents two premises (the first one called "major" and the second called "minor") that inevitably lead to a sound conclusion.100
9769611472Symbol/symbolismGenerally, anything that represents itself and stands for something else.101
9769611473SyntaxThe way an author chooses to join words into phrases, clauses, and sentences.102
9769611474ThemeThe central idea or message of a work, the insight it offers into life.103
9769611475ThesisThe sentence or group of sentences that directly expresses the author's opinion, purpose, meaning, or position.104
9769611476ToneDescribes the author's attitude toward his material, the audience, or both.105
9769611477TransitionA word or phrase that links different ideas. Used especially, although not exclusively, in expository and argumentative writing, effectively signal a shift from one idea to another.106
9769611478Understatementthe ironic minimalizing of fact; presents something as less significant than it is.107
9769611479Witin modern usage, intellectually amusing language that surprises and delights.108
9769611480Slippery SlopeThis is the failure to provide evidence to support a claim that one event will lead to a catastrophic chain of events.109
9769611481straw manWhen a writer argues against a claim that nobody actually holds or is universally considered weak.110
9769611482EthosAn appeal to credibility. The writer is seeking to convince you that he or she has the background, history, skills, and/or expertise to speak on the issue.111
9769611483JuxtapositionMaking on idea more dramatic by placing it next to its opposite.112
9769611484LogosAn appeal to reason.113
9769611485PathosAn appeal to emotion.114
9769611486Rhetorical QuestionA question whose answer is assumed.115
9769611487SimileA critical figure of speech in an argument when what is unknown is compared to something that is known using the word "like," "as," or "than" in order to better perceive its importance.116
9769611488rhetorical appealthe persuasive devices by which a writer tries to sway an audience's attention and response to any given work. See logos, ethos, and pathos.117
9769611489descriptive detailWhen an essay uses this phrase, look for the writer's sensory description.118
9769611490devicesThe figures of speech, syntax, diction, and other stylistic elements that collectively produce a particular artistic effect.119
9769611491narrative devicesThis term describes the tools of the storyteller (also used in nonfiction), such as ordering events so that they build to a climactic moment or withholding information until a crucial or appropriate moment when revealing it creates a desired effect. On the essay portion of the exam, this term may also apply to biographical and autobiographical writing.120
9769611492narrative techniquesThe style of telling the "story," even if the passage is nonfiction. Concentrate on the order of events and on their detail in evaluating a writer's technique.121
9769611493Ad hominem argumentAn argument attacking an individual's character rather than his or her position on an issue122
9769611494AnaphoraFigure of repetition that occurs when the first word or set of words in one sentence, clause, or phrase is/are repeated at or very near the beginning of successive sentences, clauses, or phrases; repetition of the initial words over successive phrases or clauses123
9769611495AnecdoteA brief story that illustrates or makes a point124
9769611496Appeal to authorityA fallacy in which a speaker or writer seeks to persuade not by giving evidence but by appealing to the respect people have for a famous person or institution.125
9769611497Argumentationone of the four forms of discourse which uses logic, ethics, and emotional appeals (logos, ethos, pathos) to develop an effective means to convince the reader to think or act in a certain way.126
9769611498AssonanceRepetition of a vowel sound within two or more words in close proximity127
9769611499AsyndetonA series of words separated by commas (with no conjunction).128
9769611500toneA speaker's, author's, or character's disposition toward or opinion of a subject.129
9769611501audienceOne's listener or readership; those to whom a speech or piece of writing is addressed.130
9769611502Balanced sentenceA sentence in which words, phrases, or clauses are set off against each other to emphasize a contrast131
9769611503Begging the questionOften called circular reasoning, __ occurs when the believability of the evidence depends on the believability of the claim.132
9769611402understatement"I have to have this operation. It isn't very serious. I have this tiny little tumor on the brain." Holden Caulfield, Catcher in the Rye133
9769611403parallelism"My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." John F. Kennedy134
9769611404allusionThe rise in poverty will unlock the Pandora's box of crimes.135
9769611405hyperbole"I'll love you, dear, I'll love you/Till China and Africa meet,/And the river jumps over the mountain"136
9769611406aphorism"Having nothing, nothing can he lose."137
9769611407metonymy"Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears." Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, Act I138
9769611408invective"I cannot but conclude the bulk of your natives to be the most pernicious race of little odious vermin that nature ever suffered to crawl upon the surface of the earth." Jonathan Swift Gulliver's Travels139
9769611409antithesis"To err is human; to forgive divine." Alexander Pope "An Essay on Criticism"140
9769611410euphemism"I am one, sir, that comes to tell you your daughter and the Moor are now making the beast with two backs." William Shakespeare Othello141
9769611411periodic sentenceIn spite of heavy snow and cold temperatures, the game continued.142
9769611412paradox"Whatever you do will be insignificant, but it is very important that you do it." -Gandhi143
9769611413alliteration"His soul swooned slowly as he heard the snow falling faintly through the universe and faintly falling, like the descent of their last end, upon all the living and the dead."144
9769611414chiasmus"he heard the snow falling faintly through the universe and faintly falling"145
9769611415oxymoron"Yet I should kill thee with much cherishing. / Good night, good night! Parting is such sweet sorrow, / That I shall say good night till it be morrow."146
9769611416personification"Pearl Button swung on the little gate in front of the House of Boxes. It was the early afternoon of a sunshiny day with little winds playing hide-and-seek in it."147
9769611417onomatopoeia"He saw nothing and heard nothing but he could feel his heart pounding and then he heard the clack on stone and the leaping, dropping clicks of a small rock falling."148
9769611418inverted syntax"Patience you must have, my young padawan."149
9769611419spatial description"In my pantry, coffee, tea powder, and sugar have been kept in the top shelf. Flour, canned food, and dry pasta are on the second shelf."150
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AP Review Language Flashcards

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9888077593LanguageA set of sounds, combination of sounds, and symbols that are used for communication0
9888077595Mutual intelligibilityThe ability of two people to understand each other when speaking1
9888077596Standard languageThe variant of a language that a county's political and intellectual elite seek to promote as the norm for use in schools, government, the media, and other aspects of public life2
9888077597DialectsLocal or regional characteristics of a language3
9888077598Dialect chainsA set of contiguous dialects in which the dialects nearest to each other at any place in the chain are most closely related4
9888077599IsoglossA geographic boundary within a particular linguistic feature occurs5
9888077600Language familiesGroup of languages with a shared but fairly distant origin6
9888077601SubfamiliesDivisions within a language family where the commonalities are more definite and the origin is more recent7
9888077602Sound shiftSlight change in a word across languages within a subfamily or through a language family from the present backward toward it's origin8
9888077603Proto-Indo-EuropeanLinguistic hypothesis proposing the existence of an ancestral Indo-European language that is the hearth of the ancient latin, greek, and sanskrit languages which hearth would link modern languages from scandinavia to north africa and from north america through parts of asia to australia9
9888077604Backward reconstructionthe tracking of sound shifts and hardening of consonants backward toward the original language10
9888077605Extinct languageLanguage without any native speakers11
9888077606Deep reconstructionTechnique using the vocabulary of an extinct language to re-create the language that proceeded the extinct language12
9888077607NostraticThe language believed to be the ancestral language not only of Proto-Indo-European, but also of the Kartvelian languages of the southern Caucasus region, the Uralic-Altaic languages (including Hungarian, Finnish, Turkish, and Mongolian), the Dravadian languages of India, and the Afro-Asiatic language family13
9888077608Language divergenceA process suggested by German linguist August Schleicher whereby new languages are formed when a language breaks into dialects due to a lack of spatial interaction among speakers of the language and continued isolation eventually causes the division of the language into discrete new languages14
9888077609Language convergencecollapsing of two languages into one resulting from the consistent spatial interaction of peoples with different languages15
9888077610Renfrew hypothesishypothesis developed by British scholar Colin Renfrew where in he proposed that three areas in and near the first agricultural hearth, the Fertile Crescent, gave rise to 3 language families:Europe's indo-European lang. North African and Arabian languages and the languages in present-day Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan and India16
9888077611Conquest theoryone major theory of how Proto-Indo-European diffused into Europe which holds that the early speakers of Proto-Indo-European spread westward on horseback, overpowering earlier inhabitants and beginning the diffusion and differentiation of Indo-European tongues17
9888077612Dispersal hypothesisHypothesis which holds that the Indo-European languages that arose from Proto-Indo-European were first carried eastward into Southwest Asia, next around the Caspian Sea, and then across the Russian-Ukrainian plains and onto the Balkans18
9888077613Romance languagesLanguages (French, Spanish, Italian, Romanian, and Portuguese) that lie in the areas that were once controlled by the Roman Empire but were not subsequently overwhelmed19
9888077614Germanic languagesLanguages (English, German, Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish) that reflect the expansion of peoples out of Northern Europe to the west and south20
9888077615Slavic languageslanguages (Russian, Polish, Czech, Slovak, Ukrainian, Slovenian, Serbo-Croatian, and Bulgarian) that developed as Slavic people migrated from a base in present-day Ukraine close to 2000 years ago21
9888077616Lingua francaA language used among speakers of different languages for the purpose of trade and commerce22
9888077617Pidgin languagesWhen parts of two or more languages are combined in a simplified structure and vocabulary23
9888077618Creole languageA language that began as a pidgin language but was later adopted as the mother tongue by a people in place of the mother tongue24
9888077619Monolingual statescountries in which only one language is spoken25
9888077620Multilingual statescountries in which more than one language is spoken26
9888077621Official languageIn multilingual countries the language selected, often by the educated and politically powerful elite, to promote internal cohesion; usually the language of the courts and government27
9888077622Global languageThe language used most commonly around the world; defined on the basis of either the number of speakers of the language, or prevalence of use in commerce and trade28
9888077624ToponymPlace name29
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