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AP Spanish Language and Culture Common Assessment Key Vocabulary Flashcards

A list of vocabulary which is often found or can be useful on the AP Spanish Language and Culture Exam

Terms : Hide Images
6062557573a pesar dein spite of0
6062557574a través de los añosthroughout the years1
6062557575actualmentecurrently2
6062557576afirma questates that3
6062557577afirmacionesstatements4
6062557578agradablepleasing5
6062557579agradecerto express thanks6
6062557580Al otro ladoOn the other hand7
6062557581alcanzar una metato reach a goal8
6062557582alejado defar away from9
6062557583apoyosupport10
6062557584aprovecharto take advantage11
6062557585asegurarto claim, to assure12
6062557586Atentamente,Sincerely,13
6062557587aumentarto increase/augment14
6062557588aunquealthough15
6062557589becasscholarships16
6062557590cifrafigure, number17
6062557591como usted sabeas you (formal) know18
6062557592conseguirto obtain19
6062557593contar conto count on / have20
6062557594crecerto grow21
6062557595cumplir con los objetivosto meet the objectives22
6062557596dar un discursoto give a speech23
6062557597datosdata, piece of information24
6062557598debe sershould be25
6062557599dejar de funcionarto stop working/functioning26
6062557600desarrollodevelopment27
6062557601despídetesay good-bye28
6062557602destacarto stand out / to point-out29
6062557603desventajadisadvantage30
6062557604disfrutar del baileto enjoy the dance31
6062557605disminuirto diminish/go down32
6062557606disponer deto have (something) available33
6062557607durarto last34
6062557608eficazeffective35
6062557609El índice dethe index of36
6062557610el ingresoincome, revenue37
6062557611el numero promediothe average number38
6062557612el presupuestobudget39
6062557613el valor dethe value of40
6062557614elegirto elect41
6062557615empeñarse en hacerstrive to make42
6062557616en realidadactually43
6062557617enterarse deto find out from44
6062557618equivocadomistaken, wrong45
6062557619escasez de recursosscarcity of resources46
6062557620Espero que se encuentre bien.I hope that you find yourself well47
6062557621estadísticasstatistics48
6062557622Este artículo trata deThis article is about49
6062557623Estimado/estimada ___,Esteemed...50
6062557624evitarto avoid51
6062557625exigirto demand52
6062557626exponeexhibits, displays53
6062557627fechadate54
6062557628fijarse ento focus on/pay attention to55
6062557629firmarto sign56
6062557630fiscalfiscal57
6062557631gráficochart58
6062557632hacer una propuestato make a proposal59
6062557633hallazgofinding, discovery60
6062557634hay queone must61
6062557635hemos acordadowe have agreed62
6062557636hipótesishypothesis63
6062557637ilustraillustrates64
6062557638incentivarto encourage65
6062557639incrementarto increase66
6062557640invertirto invest67
6062557641la actualidadthe present68
6062557642la ausenciaabsence69
6062557643la falta dethe lack of70
6062557644la inversióninvestment71
6062557645la medida presentada por la senadorathe bill presented by the senator72
6062557646la tablathe table (of data)73
6062557647la tasa dethe rate of74
6062557648llevar a caboto carry out75
6062557649lograr el éxitoto achieve success76
6062557650los datosdata77
6062557651Para asegurarme deto make sure of78
6062557652parecidosimilar, like79
6062557653perdurarto last80
6062557654permanecer estableto remain stable81
6062557655pertenecer ato pertain to82
6062557656prolongar hasta muy tardeprolong until very late83
6062557657promedioaverage84
6062557658promoverto promote85
6062557659proporcionarto provide86
6062557660propósitopurpose87
6062557661propuestaproposal88
6062557662Quisiera plantear una pregunta:I would like to pose a question89
6062557663realizarto fulfill, realize90
6062557664recalcaemphasizes, stresses91
6062557665recaudar fondosto raise funds92
6062557666rechazarejects93
6062557667reemplazarto replace, substitute94
6062557668refutarefutes95
6062557669repartirto divide96
6062557670resaltahighlights97
6062557671resumensummary98
6062557672resumirto summarize99
6062557673salúdalagreet her100
6062557674segúnaccording to101
6062557675sin embargoHowever, nevertheless102
6062557676solicitarto request103
6062557677subrayaunderlines104
6062557678sucederto happen105
6062557679superar las expectativasto exceed expectations106
6062557680tiene lugartakes place107
6062557681una fuentea source108
6062557682una media dean average of109
6062557683ventajaadvantage110

AP Language Literary Terms, AP Language terms Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
9917810947Cumulative (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
9917810948Periodic Sentencea sentence that, by leaving the completion of its main clause to the end, produces an effect of suspense.1
9917810949Litotes/Understatementa figure of speech in which a negative statement is used to affirm a positive statement.2
9917810950Warrantexpresses the assumption necessarily shared by the speaker and the audience.3
9917810951Ethosan appeal to ethics and it is a means of convincing someone of the character or credibility of the persuader.4
9917810952Pathosan appeal to emotion, and is a way of convincing an audience of an argument by creating an emotional response.5
9917810953Logosan appeal to logic, and is a way of persuading an audience by reason.6
9917810954Concessionan acknowledgement that an opposing argument may be true or reasonable.7
9917810955SyllogismA logical structure that uses the major premise and minor premise to reach a necessary conclusion.8
9917810956Major premisecontains the term that is the predicate of the conclusion.9
9917810957Minor premisecontains the term that is the subject of the conclusion.10
9917810958Inductiona 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
9917810959Deductiona logical process wherein you reach a conclusion by starting with a general principle or universal truth (a major premise).12
9917810960Equivocationa fallacy of argument in which a lie is given the appearance of truth, or in which the truth is misrepresented in deceptive language.13
9917810961Refutationa denial of the validity of an opposing argument.14
9917810962Dictiona speaker's choice of words. Analysis of diction looks at these choices and what they add to the speaker's message.15
9917810963Similea 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
9917810964Metaphorfigure of speech that compares two unlike things without using like or as.17
9917810965Anaphorathe intentional repetition of beginning clauses in order to create an artistic effect.18
9917810966Rhetoricit is the art of finding ways of persuading an audience.19
9917810967Rhetorical Trianglespeaker-subject-audience20
9917810968Allusionbrief reference to a person, event, or place (real or fictitious) to to a work of art.21
9917810969Hyperboledeliberate exaggeration used for emphasis or to produce a comic or ironic effect; an overstatement to make a point.22
9917810970Personificationattribution of a lifelike quality to an inanimate object or an idea.23
9917810971Asyndetonomission of conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses, or words.24
9917810972Polysyndetonthe deliberate use of multiple conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses or words.25
9917810973Parallelismsimilarity of structure in a pair or series of related words, phrases, or clauses.26
9917810974Antithesisopposition, or contrast or ideas or words in a parallel construction.27
9917810975Enumerationto mention separately as if in counting; name one by one; specify, as in list28
9917810976Rhetorical 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
9917810977Chiasmusthe reversal in the order of words in two otherwise parallel phrases. Ex.) He went to the country, the country went to him.30
9917810978RebuttalIn the Toulon model, a rebuttal gives voice to possible objections.31
9917810979Fallacy of Argumenta flaw in the structure of an argument that renders its conclusion invalid or suspect.32
9917810980Bandwagon Appeala fallacy of argument in which a course of action is recommended on the grounds that everyone else is following it.33
9917810981Begging the Questiona fallacy of argument in which a claim is based on the very grounds that are in doubt or dispute.34
9917810982Anecdotea brief story used to illustrate a point or claim.35
9917810983Modes 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
9917810984Examplea specific event, person, or detail of an idea cited and/or developed to support or illustrate a thesis or topic.37
9917810985Contrast/ 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
9917810986Cause and Effectestablishes a relationship: B is the result of A.39
9917810987Classificationseparates items into major categories and details the characteristics of each group is placed within the category.40
9917810988Processsimply "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
9917810989Definitionidentifies the class to which a specific term belongs and those characteristics which make it different from all the other items in that class.42
9917810990Narrationis nothing more than storytelling. There is a beginning, a middle, and an end.43
9917810991Descriptionwriting 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
9917810992Dogmatism`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
9917810993False 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
9917810994False authoritya fallacy of argument in which a claim is based on the expertise of someone who lacks appropriate credentials.47
9917810995Faulty 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
9917810996Hasty generalizationa fallacy of argument in which an inference is drawn from insufficient data.49
9917810997Non sequitora fallacy of argument in which claims, reasons, or warrants fail to connect logically; one point doesn't follow from another.50
9917811016AllegoryThe 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
9917811017AlliterationThe repetition of sounds, especially initial consonant sounds in two or more neighboring words (as in "she sells sea shells").52
9917811018AllusionA direct or indirect reference to something which is presumably commonly known, such as an event, book, myth, place, or work of art.53
9917811019AmbiguityThe multiple meanings, either intentional or unintentional, of a word, phrase, sentence, or passage.54
9917811020AnalogyA similarity or comparison between two different things or the relationship between them.55
9917811021AntecedentThe word, phrase, or clause referred to by a pronoun.56
9917811022Antithesisthe opposition or contrast of ideas; the direct opposite.57
9917811023AphorismA 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
9917811024ApostropheA 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
9917811025AtmosphereThe 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
9917811026Caricaturea verbal description, the purpose of which is to exaggerate or distort, for comic effect, a person's distinctive physical features or other characteristics.61
9917811027ClauseA grammatical unit that contains both a subject and a verb.62
9917811028Colloquial/ColloquialismThe use of slang or informalities in speech or writing.63
9917811029Literary 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
9917811030ConnotationThe non-literal, associative meaning of a word; the implied, suggested meaning.65
9917811031DenotationThe strict, literal, dictionary definition of a word, devoid of any emotion, attitude, or color.66
9917811032DictionRelated to style, diction refers to the writer's word choices, especially with regard to their correctness, clearness, or effectiveness.67
9917811033DidacticFrom the Greek, didactic literally means "teaching."68
9917811034EuphemismFrom the Greek for "good speech," euphemisms are a more agreeable or less offensive substitute for a generally unpleasant word or concept - POLITICALLY CORRECT69
9917811035Extended MetaphorA metaphor developed at great length, occurring frequently in or throughout a work.70
9917811036Figurative LanguageWriting or speech that is not intended to carry literal meaning and is usually meant to be imaginative and vivid71
9917811037Figure 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
9917811038GenreThe major category into which a literary work fits. The basic divisions of literature are prose, poetry, and drama.73
9917811039HomilyThis term literally means "sermon," but more informally, it can include any serious talk, speech, or lecture involving moral or spiritual advice.74
9917811040HyperboleA figure of speech using deliberate exaggeration or overstatement. (The literal Greek meaning is "overshoot.")75
9917811041ImageryThe sensory details or figurative language used to describe, arouse emotion, or represent abstractions.76
9917811042Inference/inferTo draw a reasonable conclusion from the information presented.77
9917811043Invectivean emotionally violent, verbal denunciation or attack using strong, abusive language.78
9917811044Irony/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
9917811045Loose 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
9917811046MetaphorA figure of speech using implied comparison of seemingly unlike things or the substitution of one for the other, suggesting some similarity.81
9917811047MetonymyA figure of speech in which the name of one object is substituted for that of another closely associated with it.82
9917811048MoodThe prevailing atmosphere or emotional aura of a work.83
9917811049NarrativeThe telling of a story or an account of an event or series of events.84
9917811050onomatopoeiaA figure of speech in which natural sounds are imitated in the sounds of words.85
9917811051OxymoronOxymoron is a figure of speech wherein the author groups apparently contradictory terms to suggest a paradox.86
9917811052ParadoxA statement that appears to be self-contradictory or opposed to common sense but upon closer inspection contains some degree of truth or validity.87
9917811053Parallelismthe use of successive verbal constructions in poetry or prose that correspond in grammatical structure, sound, meter, meaning, etc.88
9917811054ParodyA work that closely imitates the style or content of another with the specific aim of comic effect and/or ridicule.89
9917811055PedanticAn 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
9917811056Periodic sentenceThe opposite of loose sentence, a sentence that presents its central meaning in a main clause at the end.91
9917811057PersonificationA figure of speech in which the author presents or describes concepts, animals, or inanimate objects by endowing them with human attributes or emotions.92
9917811058Point of viewIn literature, the perspective from which a story is told.93
9917811059Prosewritten or spoken language in its ordinary form, without metrical structure.94
9917811060RepetitionThe duplication, either exact or approximate, of any element of language, such as a sound, word, phrase, clause, sentence, or grammatical pattern.95
9917811061RhetoricFrom the Greek for "orator," this term describes the principles governing the art of writing effectively, eloquently, and persuasively.96
9917811062SarcasmInvolves bitter, caustic language that is meant to hurt or ridicule someone or something.97
9917811063SatireA work that targets human vices and follies or social institutions and conventions for reform or ridicule.98
9917811064Subordinate 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
9917811065SyllogismA 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
9917811066Symbol/symbolismGenerally, anything that represents itself and stands for something else.101
9917811067SyntaxThe way an author chooses to join words into phrases, clauses, and sentences.102
9917811068ThemeThe central idea or message of a work, the insight it offers into life.103
9917811069ThesisThe sentence or group of sentences that directly expresses the author's opinion, purpose, meaning, or position.104
9917811070ToneDescribes the author's attitude toward his material, the audience, or both.105
9917811071TransitionA 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
9917811072Understatementthe ironic minimalizing of fact; presents something as less significant than it is.107
9917811073Witin modern usage, intellectually amusing language that surprises and delights.108
9917811074Slippery SlopeThis is the failure to provide evidence to support a claim that one event will lead to a catastrophic chain of events.109
9917811075straw manWhen a writer argues against a claim that nobody actually holds or is universally considered weak.110
9917811076EthosAn 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
9917811077JuxtapositionMaking on idea more dramatic by placing it next to its opposite.112
9917811078LogosAn appeal to reason.113
9917811079PathosAn appeal to emotion.114
9917811080Rhetorical QuestionA question whose answer is assumed.115
9917811081SimileA 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
9917811082rhetorical 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
9917811083descriptive detailWhen an essay uses this phrase, look for the writer's sensory description.118
9917811084devicesThe figures of speech, syntax, diction, and other stylistic elements that collectively produce a particular artistic effect.119
9917811085narrative 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
9917811086narrative 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
9917811087Ad hominem argumentAn argument attacking an individual's character rather than his or her position on an issue122
9917811088AnaphoraFigure 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
9917811089AnecdoteA brief story that illustrates or makes a point124
9917811090Appeal 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
9917811091Argumentationone 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
9917811092AssonanceRepetition of a vowel sound within two or more words in close proximity127
9917811093AsyndetonA series of words separated by commas (with no conjunction).128
9917811094toneA speaker's, author's, or character's disposition toward or opinion of a subject.129
9917811095audienceOne's listener or readership; those to whom a speech or piece of writing is addressed.130
9917811096Balanced sentenceA sentence in which words, phrases, or clauses are set off against each other to emphasize a contrast131
9917811097Begging the questionOften called circular reasoning, __ occurs when the believability of the evidence depends on the believability of the claim.132
9917810998understatement"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
9917810999parallelism"My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." John F. Kennedy134
9917811000allusionThe rise in poverty will unlock the Pandora's box of crimes.135
9917811001hyperbole"I'll love you, dear, I'll love you/Till China and Africa meet,/And the river jumps over the mountain"136
9917811002aphorism"Having nothing, nothing can he lose."137
9917811003metonymy"Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears." Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, Act I138
9917811004invective"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
9917811005antithesis"To err is human; to forgive divine." Alexander Pope "An Essay on Criticism"140
9917811006euphemism"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
9917811007periodic sentenceIn spite of heavy snow and cold temperatures, the game continued.142
9917811008paradox"Whatever you do will be insignificant, but it is very important that you do it." -Gandhi143
9917811009alliteration"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
9917811010chiasmus"he heard the snow falling faintly through the universe and faintly falling"145
9917811011oxymoron"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
9917811012personification"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
9917811013onomatopoeia"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
9917811014inverted syntax"Patience you must have, my young padawan."149
9917811015spatial 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

AP Psychology- Thinking and Language Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
7938707859cognitionthe mental activities associated with thinking, knowing, remembering, and communicating0
7938707860conceptsa mental grouping of similar objects, events, ideas, or people1
7938707861prototypesa mental image or best example of a category; matching new items to the prototype provides a quick and easy method for including items in a category (as when comparing feathered creatures to a prototype bird, such as a robin)2
7938709473algorithma methodical, logical rule or procedure that guarantees solving a praticular problem; contrasts with the usually speedier-but also more error prone- use of heuristics3
7938712627heuristicsa simple thinking strategy that often allows us to make judgments and solve problem efficiently; usually speedier but also more error-prone than algorithms4
7938712628insighta sudden and often novel realization of the solution to a problem; it contrasts with strategy-based solutions5
7938712629confirmation biasa tendency to search for information that confirms one's preconceptions6
7938713685fixationthe inability to see a problem from a new perspective; an impediment to problem solving7
7938713724mental seta tendency to approach a problem in a particular way that has been successful in the past8
7938715134functional fixednessthe tendency to think of things only in terms of their usual functions; an impediment to problem solving9
7938716180representativeness heuristicjudging the likelihood of things in terms of how well they seem to represent, or math, particular prototypes; may lead one to ignore other relevant information10
7938716181availability heuristicestimating the likelihood of events based on their availability in memory; if instances come readily to mind (perhaps because of their vividness), we presume such events are common11
7938718716overconfidencethe tendency to be more confident than correct- to overestimate the accuracy of one's beliefs and judgments12
7938718717framingthe way an issue is posed; how an issue is framed can significantly affect decisions and judgments13
7938718718belief biasthe tendency for one's preexisting beliefs to distort logical reasoning, sometimes by making invalid conclusions seem valid, or valid conclusions seem invalid14
7938719804belief perseveranceclinging to one's initial conceptions after the basis on which they were formed has been discredited15
7938722558languageour spoken, written, or signed words and the ways we combine them to communicate meaning16
7938722559phonemein a language, the smallest distinctive sound unit17
7938722560morphemein a language, the smallest unit that carries meaning; may be a word or a part of a word (such as a prefix)18
7938722561grammarin a language, a system of rules that enables us to communicate with and understand others19
7938724190semanticsthe set of rules by which we derive meaning from morphemes, words, and sentences in a given language; also, the study of meaning20
7938724191syntaxthe rules for combining words into grammatically sensible sentences in a given language21
7938724192babbling stagebeginnings at about four months, the stage of speech development in which the infant spontaneously utters various sounds at first unrelated to household language22
7938725205one-word stagethe stage in speech development, from about age 1 to 2, during which a child speaks mostly in single words23
7938725206two-word stagebeginning about age 2, the stage in speech development during which a child speaks mostly two-word statements24
7938725263telegraphic speechearly speech stage in which a child speaks like a telegram- "go car" - using mostly nouns and verbs and omitting auxiliary words25
7938726999linguistic determinismdifferent languages impose different conceptions of reality26

AP Language Literary Terms, AP Language terms Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
9951967776Cumulative (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
9951967777Periodic Sentencea sentence that, by leaving the completion of its main clause to the end, produces an effect of suspense.1
9951967778Litotes/Understatementa figure of speech in which a negative statement is used to affirm a positive statement.2
9951967779Warrantexpresses the assumption necessarily shared by the speaker and the audience.3
9951967780Ethosan appeal to ethics and it is a means of convincing someone of the character or credibility of the persuader.4
9951967781Pathosan appeal to emotion, and is a way of convincing an audience of an argument by creating an emotional response.5
9951967782Logosan appeal to logic, and is a way of persuading an audience by reason.6
9951967783Concessionan acknowledgement that an opposing argument may be true or reasonable.7
9951967784SyllogismA logical structure that uses the major premise and minor premise to reach a necessary conclusion.8
9951967785Major premisecontains the term that is the predicate of the conclusion.9
9951967786Minor premisecontains the term that is the subject of the conclusion.10
9951967787Inductiona 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
9951967788Deductiona logical process wherein you reach a conclusion by starting with a general principle or universal truth (a major premise).12
9951967789Equivocationa fallacy of argument in which a lie is given the appearance of truth, or in which the truth is misrepresented in deceptive language.13
9951967790Refutationa denial of the validity of an opposing argument.14
9951967791Dictiona speaker's choice of words. Analysis of diction looks at these choices and what they add to the speaker's message.15
9951967792Similea 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
9951967793Metaphorfigure of speech that compares two unlike things without using like or as.17
9951967794Anaphorathe intentional repetition of beginning clauses in order to create an artistic effect.18
9951967795Rhetoricit is the art of finding ways of persuading an audience.19
9951967796Rhetorical Trianglespeaker-subject-audience20
9951967797Allusionbrief reference to a person, event, or place (real or fictitious) to to a work of art.21
9951967798Hyperboledeliberate exaggeration used for emphasis or to produce a comic or ironic effect; an overstatement to make a point.22
9951967799Personificationattribution of a lifelike quality to an inanimate object or an idea.23
9951967800Asyndetonomission of conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses, or words.24
9951967801Polysyndetonthe deliberate use of multiple conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses or words.25
9951967802Parallelismsimilarity of structure in a pair or series of related words, phrases, or clauses.26
9951967803Antithesisopposition, or contrast or ideas or words in a parallel construction.27
9951967804Enumerationto mention separately as if in counting; name one by one; specify, as in list28
9951967805Rhetorical 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
9951967806Chiasmusthe reversal in the order of words in two otherwise parallel phrases. Ex.) He went to the country, the country went to him.30
9951967807RebuttalIn the Toulon model, a rebuttal gives voice to possible objections.31
9951967808Fallacy of Argumenta flaw in the structure of an argument that renders its conclusion invalid or suspect.32
9951967809Bandwagon Appeala fallacy of argument in which a course of action is recommended on the grounds that everyone else is following it.33
9951967810Begging the Questiona fallacy of argument in which a claim is based on the very grounds that are in doubt or dispute.34
9951967811Anecdotea brief story used to illustrate a point or claim.35
9951967812Modes 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
9951967813Examplea specific event, person, or detail of an idea cited and/or developed to support or illustrate a thesis or topic.37
9951967814Contrast/ 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
9951967815Cause and Effectestablishes a relationship: B is the result of A.39
9951967816Classificationseparates items into major categories and details the characteristics of each group is placed within the category.40
9951967817Processsimply "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
9951967818Definitionidentifies the class to which a specific term belongs and those characteristics which make it different from all the other items in that class.42
9951967819Narrationis nothing more than storytelling. There is a beginning, a middle, and an end.43
9951967820Descriptionwriting 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
9951967821Dogmatism`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
9951967822False 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
9951967823False authoritya fallacy of argument in which a claim is based on the expertise of someone who lacks appropriate credentials.47
9951967824Faulty 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
9951967825Hasty generalizationa fallacy of argument in which an inference is drawn from insufficient data.49
9951967826Non sequitora fallacy of argument in which claims, reasons, or warrants fail to connect logically; one point doesn't follow from another.50
9951967845AllegoryThe 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
9951967846AlliterationThe repetition of sounds, especially initial consonant sounds in two or more neighboring words (as in "she sells sea shells").52
9951967847AllusionA direct or indirect reference to something which is presumably commonly known, such as an event, book, myth, place, or work of art.53
9951967848AmbiguityThe multiple meanings, either intentional or unintentional, of a word, phrase, sentence, or passage.54
9951967849AnalogyA similarity or comparison between two different things or the relationship between them.55
9951967850AntecedentThe word, phrase, or clause referred to by a pronoun.56
9951967851Antithesisthe opposition or contrast of ideas; the direct opposite.57
9951967852AphorismA 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
9951967853ApostropheA 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
9951967854AtmosphereThe 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
9951967855Caricaturea verbal description, the purpose of which is to exaggerate or distort, for comic effect, a person's distinctive physical features or other characteristics.61
9951967856ClauseA grammatical unit that contains both a subject and a verb.62
9951967857Colloquial/ColloquialismThe use of slang or informalities in speech or writing.63
9951967858Literary 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
9951967859ConnotationThe non-literal, associative meaning of a word; the implied, suggested meaning.65
9951967860DenotationThe strict, literal, dictionary definition of a word, devoid of any emotion, attitude, or color.66
9951967861DictionRelated to style, diction refers to the writer's word choices, especially with regard to their correctness, clearness, or effectiveness.67
9951967862DidacticFrom the Greek, didactic literally means "teaching."68
9951967863EuphemismFrom the Greek for "good speech," euphemisms are a more agreeable or less offensive substitute for a generally unpleasant word or concept - POLITICALLY CORRECT69
9951967864Extended MetaphorA metaphor developed at great length, occurring frequently in or throughout a work.70
9951967865Figurative LanguageWriting or speech that is not intended to carry literal meaning and is usually meant to be imaginative and vivid71
9951967866Figure 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
9951967867GenreThe major category into which a literary work fits. The basic divisions of literature are prose, poetry, and drama.73
9951967868HomilyThis term literally means "sermon," but more informally, it can include any serious talk, speech, or lecture involving moral or spiritual advice.74
9951967869HyperboleA figure of speech using deliberate exaggeration or overstatement. (The literal Greek meaning is "overshoot.")75
9951967870ImageryThe sensory details or figurative language used to describe, arouse emotion, or represent abstractions.76
9951967871Inference/inferTo draw a reasonable conclusion from the information presented.77
9951967872Invectivean emotionally violent, verbal denunciation or attack using strong, abusive language.78
9951967873Irony/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
9951967874Loose 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
9951967875MetaphorA figure of speech using implied comparison of seemingly unlike things or the substitution of one for the other, suggesting some similarity.81
9951967876MetonymyA figure of speech in which the name of one object is substituted for that of another closely associated with it.82
9951967877MoodThe prevailing atmosphere or emotional aura of a work.83
9951967878NarrativeThe telling of a story or an account of an event or series of events.84
9951967879onomatopoeiaA figure of speech in which natural sounds are imitated in the sounds of words.85
9951967880OxymoronOxymoron is a figure of speech wherein the author groups apparently contradictory terms to suggest a paradox.86
9951967881ParadoxA statement that appears to be self-contradictory or opposed to common sense but upon closer inspection contains some degree of truth or validity.87
9951967882Parallelismthe use of successive verbal constructions in poetry or prose that correspond in grammatical structure, sound, meter, meaning, etc.88
9951967883ParodyA work that closely imitates the style or content of another with the specific aim of comic effect and/or ridicule.89
9951967884PedanticAn 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
9951967885Periodic sentenceThe opposite of loose sentence, a sentence that presents its central meaning in a main clause at the end.91
9951967886PersonificationA figure of speech in which the author presents or describes concepts, animals, or inanimate objects by endowing them with human attributes or emotions.92
9951967887Point of viewIn literature, the perspective from which a story is told.93
9951967888Prosewritten or spoken language in its ordinary form, without metrical structure.94
9951967889RepetitionThe duplication, either exact or approximate, of any element of language, such as a sound, word, phrase, clause, sentence, or grammatical pattern.95
9951967890RhetoricFrom the Greek for "orator," this term describes the principles governing the art of writing effectively, eloquently, and persuasively.96
9951967891SarcasmInvolves bitter, caustic language that is meant to hurt or ridicule someone or something.97
9951967892SatireA work that targets human vices and follies or social institutions and conventions for reform or ridicule.98
9951967893Subordinate 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
9951967894SyllogismA 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
9951967895Symbol/symbolismGenerally, anything that represents itself and stands for something else.101
9951967896SyntaxThe way an author chooses to join words into phrases, clauses, and sentences.102
9951967897ThemeThe central idea or message of a work, the insight it offers into life.103
9951967898ThesisThe sentence or group of sentences that directly expresses the author's opinion, purpose, meaning, or position.104
9951967899ToneDescribes the author's attitude toward his material, the audience, or both.105
9951967900TransitionA 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
9951967901Understatementthe ironic minimalizing of fact; presents something as less significant than it is.107
9951967902Witin modern usage, intellectually amusing language that surprises and delights.108
9951967903Slippery SlopeThis is the failure to provide evidence to support a claim that one event will lead to a catastrophic chain of events.109
9951967904straw manWhen a writer argues against a claim that nobody actually holds or is universally considered weak.110
9951967905EthosAn 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
9951967906JuxtapositionMaking on idea more dramatic by placing it next to its opposite.112
9951967907LogosAn appeal to reason.113
9951967908PathosAn appeal to emotion.114
9951967909Rhetorical QuestionA question whose answer is assumed.115
9951967910SimileA 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
9951967911rhetorical 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
9951967912descriptive detailWhen an essay uses this phrase, look for the writer's sensory description.118
9951967913devicesThe figures of speech, syntax, diction, and other stylistic elements that collectively produce a particular artistic effect.119
9951967914narrative 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
9951967915narrative 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
9951967916Ad hominem argumentAn argument attacking an individual's character rather than his or her position on an issue122
9951967917AnaphoraFigure 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
9951967918AnecdoteA brief story that illustrates or makes a point124
9951967919Appeal 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
9951967920Argumentationone 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
9951967921AssonanceRepetition of a vowel sound within two or more words in close proximity127
9951967922AsyndetonA series of words separated by commas (with no conjunction).128
9951967923toneA speaker's, author's, or character's disposition toward or opinion of a subject.129
9951967924audienceOne's listener or readership; those to whom a speech or piece of writing is addressed.130
9951967925Balanced sentenceA sentence in which words, phrases, or clauses are set off against each other to emphasize a contrast131
9951967926Begging the questionOften called circular reasoning, __ occurs when the believability of the evidence depends on the believability of the claim.132
9951967827understatement"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
9951967828parallelism"My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." John F. Kennedy134
9951967829allusionThe rise in poverty will unlock the Pandora's box of crimes.135
9951967830hyperbole"I'll love you, dear, I'll love you/Till China and Africa meet,/And the river jumps over the mountain"136
9951967831aphorism"Having nothing, nothing can he lose."137
9951967832metonymy"Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears." Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, Act I138
9951967833invective"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
9951967834antithesis"To err is human; to forgive divine." Alexander Pope "An Essay on Criticism"140
9951967835euphemism"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
9951967836periodic sentenceIn spite of heavy snow and cold temperatures, the game continued.142
9951967837paradox"Whatever you do will be insignificant, but it is very important that you do it." -Gandhi143
9951967838alliteration"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
9951967839chiasmus"he heard the snow falling faintly through the universe and faintly falling"145
9951967840oxymoron"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
9951967841personification"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
9951967842onomatopoeia"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
9951967843inverted syntax"Patience you must have, my young padawan."149
9951967844spatial 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

AP Lang Literary & Rhetorical Terms Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
9141843413Cumulative (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
9141843414Periodic Sentencea sentence that, by leaving the completion of its main clause to the end, produces an effect of suspense.1
9141843415Litotesa figure of speech in which a negative statement is used to affirm a positive statement.2
9141843417Ethosan appeal to ethics and it is a means of convincing someone of the character or credibility of the persuader.3
9141843418Pathosan appeal to emotion, and is a way of convincing an audience of an argument by creating an emotional response.4
9141843419Logosan appeal to logic, and is a way of persuading an audience by reason.5
9141843420Concessionan acknowledgement that an opposing argument may be true or reasonable.6
9141843421SyllogismA logical structure that uses the major premise and minor premise to reach a necessary conclusion.7
9141843424Inductiona logical process wherein you reason from particulars to universal, using specific cases in order to draw a conclusion, which is also called a generalization.8
9141843425Deductiona logical process wherein you reach a conclusion by starting with a general principle or universal truth (a major premise).9
9141843426Equivocationa fallacy of argument in which a lie is given the appearance of truth, or in which the truth is misrepresented in deceptive language.10
9141843427Refutationa denial of the validity of an opposing argument.11
9141843428Dictiona speaker's choice of words. Analysis of diction looks at these choices and what they add to the speaker's message.12
9141843429Similea figure of speech used to explain or clarify an idea by comparing it explicitly to something else, using words like, as, or as though.13
9141843430Metaphorfigure of speech that compares two unlike things without using like or as.14
9141843431Anaphorathe intentional repetition of beginning clauses in order to create an artistic effect.15
9141843432Rhetoricit is the art of finding ways of persuading an audience.16
9141843433Rhetorical Trianglespeaker-subject-audience17
9141843434Allusionbrief reference to a person, event, or place (real or fictitious) to to a work of art.18
9141843435Hyperboledeliberate exaggeration used for emphasis or to produce a comic or ironic effect; an overstatement to make a point.19
9141843436Personificationattribution of a lifelike quality to an inanimate object or an idea.20
9141843437Asyndetonomission of conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses, or words.21
9141843438Polysyndetonthe deliberate use of multiple conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses or words.22
9141843439Parallelismsimilarity of structure in a pair or series of related words, phrases, or clauses.23
9141843440Antithesisopposition, or contrast or ideas or words in a parallel construction.24
9141843441Enumerationto mention separately as if in counting; name one by one; specify, as in list25
9141843442Rhetorical 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?26
9141843443Chiasmusthe reversal in the order of words in two otherwise parallel phrases. Ex.) He went to the country, the country went to him.27
9141843444RebuttalIn the Toulon model, a rebuttal gives voice to possible objections.28
9141843445Fallacy of Argumenta flaw in the structure of an argument that renders its conclusion invalid or suspect.29
9141843446Bandwagon Appeala fallacy of argument in which a course of action is recommended on the grounds that everyone else is following it.30
9141843448Anecdotea brief story used to illustrate a point or claim.31
9141843449Modes of DiscourseExposition- illustrates a point Narration- tells a story Description- creates a sensory image Argumentation- takes a position on an issue and defends it.32
9141843450Examplea specific event, person, or detail of an idea cited and/or developed to support or illustrate a thesis or topic.33
9141843451Contrasta method of presenting differences between or among at least two persons, places, things, ideas, etc.34
9141843452Cause and Effectestablishes a relationship: B is the result of A.35
9141843453Classificationseparates items into major categories and details the characteristics of each group is placed within the category.36
9141843454Processsimply "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.37
9141843456Narrationstorytelling; there is a beginning, a middle, and an end38
9141843457Descriptionwriting 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.39
9141843458Dogmatisma fallacy of argument in which a claim is supported on the grounds that it's the only conclusion acceptable within a given community.40
9141843459False 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.41
9141843460False authoritya fallacy of argument in which a claim is based on the expertise of someone who lacks appropriate credentials.42
9141843461Faulty 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.43
9141843462Hasty generalizationa fallacy of argument in which an inference is drawn from insufficient data.44
9141843463Non sequitora fallacy of argument in which claims, reasons, or warrants fail to connect logically; one point doesn't follow from another.45
9141843464AllegoryThe 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.46
9141843465AlliterationThe repetition of sounds, especially initial consonant sounds in two or more neighboring words (as in "she sells sea shells").47
9141843466AllusionAn indirect reference to something which is presumably commonly known, such as an event, book, myth, place, or work of art.48
9141843467AmbiguityThe multiple meanings, either intentional or unintentional, of a word, phrase, sentence, or passage.49
9141843468AnalogyA similarity or comparison between two different things or the relationship between them.50
9141843469AntecedentThe word, phrase, or clause referred to by a pronoun.51
9141843470Antithesisthe opposition or contrast of ideas; the direct opposite.52
9141843471AphorismA 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.)53
9141843472ApostropheA 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.54
9141843473AtmosphereThe 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.55
9141843474Caricaturean exaggeration or distortion, for comic effect, of a person's distinctive physical features or other characteristics.56
9141843475ClauseA grammatical unit that contains both a subject and a verb.57
9141843476Colloquial/ColloquialismThe use of slang or informalities in speech or writing.58
9141843477Literary 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 sense59
9141843478ConnotationThe non-literal, associative meaning of a word; the implied, suggested meaning.60
9141843479DenotationThe strict, literal, dictionary definition of a word, devoid of any emotion, attitude, or color.61
9141843480DictionRelated to style, diction refers to the writer's word choices, especially with regard to their correctness, clearness, or effectiveness.62
9141843481DidacticFrom the Greek, didactic literally means "teaching."63
9141843482EuphemismFrom the Greek for "good speech," euphemisms are a more agreeable or less offensive substitute for a generally unpleasant word or concept - POLITICALLY CORRECT64
9141843483Extended MetaphorA metaphor developed at great length, occurring frequently in or throughout a work.65
9141843484Figurative LanguageWriting or speech that is not intended to carry literal meaning and is usually meant to be imaginative and vivid66
9141843485Figure 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 understatement67
9141843486GenreThe major category into which a literary work fits. The basic divisions of literature are prose, poetry, and drama.68
9141843487HomilyThis term literally means "sermon," but more informally, it can include any serious talk, speech, or lecture involving moral or spiritual advice.69
9141843488HyperboleA figure of speech using deliberate exaggeration or overstatement. (The literal Greek meaning is "overshoot.")70
9141843489ImageryThe sensory details or figurative language used to describe, arouse emotion, or represent abstractions.71
9141843490Inference/inferTo draw a reasonable conclusion from the information presented.72
9141843491Invectivean emotionally violent, verbal denunciation or attack using strong, abusive language.73
9141843492Irony/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.74
9141843493Loose 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.75
9141843494MetaphorA figure of speech using implied comparison of seemingly unlike things or the substitution of one for the other, suggesting some similarity.76
9141843495MetonymyA figure of speech in which the name of one object is substituted for that of another closely associated with it.77
9141843496MoodThe prevailing atmosphere or emotional aura of a work.78
9141843497NarrativeThe telling of a story or an account of an event or series of events.79
9141843498onomatopoeiaA figure of speech in which natural sounds are imitated in the sounds of words.80
9141843499OxymoronOxymoron is a figure of speech wherein the author groups apparently contradictory terms to suggest a paradox.81
9141843500ParadoxA statement that appears to be self-contradictory or opposed to common sense but upon closer inspection contains some degree of truth or validity.82
9141843501Parallelismthe use of successive verbal constructions in poetry or prose that correspond in grammatical structure, sound, meter, meaning, etc.83
9141843502ParodyA work that closely imitates the style or content of another with the specific aim of comic effect and/or ridicule.84
9141843503PedanticAn 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).85
9141843504Periodic sentenceThe opposite of loose sentence, a sentence that presents its central meaning in a main clause at the end.86
9141843505PersonificationA figure of speech in which the author presents or describes concepts, animals, or inanimate objects by endowing them with human attributes or emotions.87
9141843506Point of viewIn literature, the perspective from which a story is told.88
9141843507Prosewritten or spoken language in its ordinary form, without metrical structure.89
9141843508RepetitionThe duplication, either exact or approximate, of any element of language, such as a sound, word, phrase, clause, sentence, or grammatical pattern.90
9141843509RhetoricFrom the Greek for "orator," this term describes the principles governing the art of writing effectively, eloquently, and persuasively.91
9141843510SarcasmInvolves bitter, caustic language that is meant to hurt or ridicule someone or something.92
9141843511SatireA work that targets human vices and follies or social institutions and conventions for reform or ridicule.93
9141843512Subordinate 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.94
9141843513SyllogismA 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.95
9141843514Symbol/symbolismGenerally, anything that represents itself and stands for something else.96
9141843515SyntaxThe way an author chooses to join words into phrases, clauses, and sentences.97
9141843516ThemeThe central idea or message of a work, the insight it offers into life.98
9141843517ThesisThe sentence or group of sentences that directly expresses the author's opinion, purpose, meaning, or position.99
9141843518ToneDescribes the author's attitude toward his material, the audience, or both.100
9141843519TransitionA 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.101
9141843520Understatementthe ironic minimalizing of fact; presents something as less significant than it is.102
9141843521Witin modern usage, intellectually amusing language that surprises and delights.103
9141843522Slippery SlopeThis is the failure to provide evidence to support a claim that one event will lead to a catastrophic chain of events.104
9141843523straw manWhen a writer argues against a claim that nobody actually holds or is universally considered weak.105
9141843524EthosAn 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.106
9141843525JuxtapositionMaking on idea more dramatic by placing it next to its opposite.107
9141843526LogosAn appeal to reason.108
9141843527PathosAn appeal to emotion.109
9141843528Rhetorical QuestionA question whose answer is assumed.110
9141843529SimileA 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.111
9141843530rhetorical 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.112
9141843532devicesThe figures of speech, syntax, diction, and other stylistic elements that collectively produce a particular artistic effect.113
9141843533narrative 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.114
9141843534narrative 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.115
9141843535Ad hominem argumentAn argument attacking an individual's character rather than his or her position on an issue116
9141843536AnaphoraFigure 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 clauses117
9141843537AnecdoteA brief story that illustrates or makes a point118
9141843538Appeal 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.119
9141843539Argumentationone 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.120
9141843540AssonanceRepetition of a vowel sound within two or more words in close proximity121
9141843541AsyndetonA series of words separated by commas (with no conjunction).122
9141843542toneA speaker's, author's, or character's disposition toward or opinion of a subject.123
9141843543audienceOne's listener or readership; those to whom a speech or piece of writing is addressed.124
9141843544Balanced sentenceA sentence in which words, phrases, or clauses are set off against each other to emphasize a contrast125
9141843546understatement"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 Rye126
9141843547parallelism"My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." John F. Kennedy127
9141843548allusionThe rise in poverty will unlock the Pandora's box of crimes.128
9141843549hyperbole"I'll love you, dear, I'll love you/Till China and Africa meet,/And the river jumps over the mountain"129
9141843550aphorism"Having nothing, nothing can he lose."130
9141843551metonymy"Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears." Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, Act I131
9141843552invective"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 Travels132
9141843553antithesis"To err is human; to forgive divine." Alexander Pope "An Essay on Criticism"133
9141843554euphemism"I am one, sir, that comes to tell you your daughter and the Moor are now making the beast with two backs." William Shakespeare Othello134
9141843555periodic sentenceIn spite of heavy snow and cold temperatures, the game continued.135
9141843556paradox"Whatever you do will be insignificant, but it is very important that you do it." -Gandhi136
9141843557alliteration"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."137
9141843558chiasmus"he heard the snow falling faintly through the universe and faintly falling"138
9141843559oxymoron"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."139
9141843560personification"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."140
9141843561onomatopoeia"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."141
9141843562inverted syntax"Patience you must have, my young padawan."142
9141843563spatial 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."143

AP Language and Composition: Chapter 16 Vocab Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
8599761885BuoyantCapable of floating0
8599766432EnervateTo exhaust1
8599771674IncorrigibleIncurable2
8599779933InexorableUnyielding3
8599779935IrrefutableIndisputable4
8599794531MarredDamaged5
8599807199ParochialLimited6
8599807200PartisanOne-sided7
8599818512PiqueA feeling or resentment or anger because of wounded pride8
8599841352SatiricalCriticizing through ridicule9

AP Language and Composition Vocabulary Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
5617665021AdversaryAn enemy or opponent0
5617679305AlienateTo make indifferent or hostile1
5617694537ArtificeA skillful or ingenious device2
5691502516Coerceto compel or force3
5691510164Cravencoward4
5691510165Culinaryof or related to cooking or the kitchen5
5691515777Demisea death, especially of a person in lofty posititon6
5691521651Exhilirateto enliven, cheer, give spirit or liveliness to7
5691533931Fallowinactive8
5691552178Harassto disturb or worry9
5691718595Inclementsevere in attitude or action10
5691734839Liquidateto eliminate11
5691738536Museto think about in a dreamy way or ponder12
5692093114Negligibleso unimportant that it can be disregarded13
5692097785Perpetuateto make permanent or long lasting14
5692102502Precedentan example that may serve as a basis for imitation or later action15
5692120386Punitiveinflicting or aiming at punishment16
5692125322Redressto set right or remedy17
5692138924Sojourna temporary stay18
5692453796Urbanerefined in manner or style or suave19
5742384015Alliterationthe occurrence of the same letter or sound at the beginning of adjacent or closely connected words20
5742400708Allusiona brief reference to a real or fictional person, event, place, or work of art21
5742411804Assonancethe repetition of vowel sounds in a chunk of text22
5742420083Ballada story/ narrative in poetic form23
5742425092Consonancethe repetition of consonant sounds, but not vowels, in a chunk of text24
5742433629Dictionthe author's specific word choice25
5742594061Enjambmentthis occurs when one line ends without a pause or any punctuation and continues onto the next line26
5742607786Free Versepoetry that does not rhyme or have a measurable meter27
5742611780Metaphora figure of speech that makes a comparison between two things without using connector words such as "like" or "as"28
5742622800Meterthe measured arrangement of sounds/beats in a poem, including the poet's placement of emphasis and the number of syllables per line29
5742639542Onomatopoeiaa word that sounds like what it means30
5742643545Rhythmthe recurrence of stressed and unstressed sounds in poetry. Depending on how sounds are arranged, the _____________ of a poem may be fast or slow, choppy or smooth.31
5742793609Similea figure of speech that makes a comparison between two things using connecting words, such as " like" or "as"32
5742809104Stanzaa unified group of lines of poetry. This is often marked by spacing between sections of the poem.33
5742817747Symbolan object or action that means something more than its literal meaning34
5742828141Themethe central meaning or dominant message the poet is trying to deliver to the reader (usually not one word)35
5742841460Tonethe attitude the poem's narrator (this may or may not be the actual poet) takes towards a subject or character Ex: serious, humorous, sarcastic, ironic, concerned, tongue-in-cheek, solemn, objective, or etc.36
5743331060Versea single line of poetry37
7276473675Thesisa statement that a writer intends to support and prove38
7276485483Claima statement that, essentially, is arguable but is also used as a primary point to support or prove an argument39
7276499185Audiencethe person/ people for whom a writer writes, or a composer composes40
7276506423Evidencea type of literary device that is presented to persuade the readers and used with powerful arguments in texts or essays41
7276524553Logosa statement, sentence or argument used to convince or persuade the targeted audience by employing reason or logic EX: statistics42
7276531710Ethoscredibility or an ethical appeal which involves persuasion by the character involved.43
7276532665Pathosa quality of an experience in life or a work of art that stirs up emotions of pity, sympathy and sorrow.44
7779537841FallacyAn unreliable means of arguing that does not provide good reason for accepting the argument's conclusion.45
7779555543Red HerringBringing up an irrelevant issue to distract from the central topic at hand.46
7779571451Post Hoc Ergo Propter HocLatin for "after this, therefore because of this." Also called the fallacy of false cause. Claiming that one thing is caused by another because it followed after the other.47
7779595440Ad Hominem FallacyAn attack on the opponent rather than on the opponent's argument, usually name calling or casting aspersion on the opponent's character.48
7779619713Begging the QuestionTaking for granted or treating an opinion that is open to question as if it were already proved or disproved.49
7779672023Circular ReasoningTrying to prove one idea with another idea that is too similar to the first idea; such logical ways move backwards in its attempt to move forward.50
7779685139Slippery SlopeAsserting that some event must inevitably follow from another without any argument for the inevitability of the event in question with no reason given as to why the intervening steps or gradations will simply be bypassed.51
7779739160Argument Ad Populum("To the people") appealing to readers' general values , such as patriotism or love of family. EX: A desire for tougher gun control laws is just out of step with true American patriotism or sentiment.52
7779930196Visual RhetoricThe development of a theoretical framework describing how visual images communicate meaning, as opposed to aural, verbal, or other messages.53
7779959619ParadoxA situation, person, or thing that combines contradictory features or qualities.54
7779964250EuphemismThe use of a word or phrase that is less direct, but that is also less distasteful or less offensive than another. EX: Yesterday, the man went to his eternal rest.55
7779978955DysphemismA derogatory or unpleasant term used instead of a pleasant or neutral one, such as "loony bin" for "mental hospital.".56
7780021969HyperboleExaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally.57
7780066465Parallel StructureA stylistic device, and a grammatical construction having two or more clauses, phrases or words, with similar grammatical form and length.58
7780083723AnaphoraA repetition of the same word or group of words at the beginning of successive clauses. EX: "I'm not afraid to die...I'm not afraid to live. I'm other afraid to fail. I'm not afraid to suceed. I'm not afraid to fall in love. I'm not afraid to be alone.I'm just afraid I might have to stop talking about myself for five minutes. "59
7780125029Ironythe expression of one's meaning by using language that normally signifies the opposite, typically for humorous or emphatic effect.60
7780132656Verbal IronyA speaker speaks something contradictory to what he intends to say.61
7780217491Figurative LanguageFigures of speech to be more effective, persuasive, and impactful.62
7780230588ImageryFigurative language used in order to represent objects, actions, and ideas in such a way that appeals to our physical senses.63
7780268252AnalogyA comparison in which an idea or a thing is compared to another thing that is quite different from it.64
7780294202OxymoronA figure of speech in which two opposite ideas are joined to create an effect.65
7780317895AntithesisA rhetorical device in which two opposite ideas are put together in a sentence to achieve a contrasting effect.66
7780337186KairosA rhetorical device that means appropriate time for an action.67
7780371117Rhetorical ContextThe circumstances surrounding any writing situation and includes purpose, audience, and focus.68
7780438050SOAPSToneSpeaker, Occasion, Audience, Purpose, Subject, Tone69
7780445374SpeakerThe voice behind the scene.70
7780471850SatireA technique employed by writers to expose and criticize foolishness and corruption of an individual or a society by using humor, irony, exaggeration or ridicule.71
7853330827Asyndetona syntactical structure in which conjunctions are omitted in a series, usually producing more rapid prose.72
7853356201Chiasmusa statement consisting of two parallel parts in which the second part is structurally reversed73
7853378873Colloquialisminformal words or expressions not usually acceptable in formal writing74
7853418508Deductive Reasoninga logical process in which a conclusion is based on the concordance of multiple premises that are generally assumed to be true. This form of 'top-down' reasoning begins with premises that are generally assumed to be true and then applies them to specific cases to derive conclusions. This form of reasoning goes from GENERAL to SPECIFIC.75
7963052786Synecdochefigure of speech in which a part is made to represent the whole or vice versa76
7963055658Metonymya figure of speech in which one word or phrase is substituted for another with which it is closely associated EX: This land belongs to the crown.77
7963059383Colloquial Languagewords or expressions used in ordinary language by common people Ex: slang78
7963061743Litotesironic understatement in which an affirmative is expressed by the negative of its contrary Ex:you won't be sorry, meaning you'll be glad79
7963064988Paralipsisthe device of giving emphasis by professing to say little or nothing about a subject80
8012015958PolysyndetonSentence style that uses many conjunctions to low the rhythm or to suggest the continuity of the experience. EX: "There were frowzy fields, and cow-houses, and dunghills, and dustheaps, and ditches, and gardens, and summer-houses, and carpet-beating grounds, at the very door of the Railway."81
8083345607Loose (Cumulative ) Sentencea type of sentence in which the main idea (independent clause) is elaborated by the successive addition of modifying clauses or phrases.82
8249509699Periodic SentenceMain clause or predicate as the last part of the sentence.83
8249682292SyllepsisA kind of ellipsis in which one word is understood differently in relation to two or more other words which it governs, but the word does not fit grammatically or idiomatically with one member of the pair EX: "You most likely need a thesaurus, a rudimentary grammar book, and a grip on reality."84
8324273518ZeugmaA kind of ellipsis in which one word is understood differently in relation to two or more other words which it governs- often used as a pun EX: "She broke his car and his heart."85
8324297946Tricolonthree parallel elements of the same length occurring in a series EX: "Be sincere, be brief, be seated."86
8324315407Ellipsisdeliberate omission of a word or words which are readily implied by the context EX: "There is much to support the view that it is clothes that wear us, and not we, them."87
8324334379Epistropherepetition of the same word or group of words at the ends of successive clauses EX: "The cars do not sell because the engineering is inferior, the quality of materials is inferior, and the workmanship is inferior.88
8324357401Inverted Syntaxreversing the normal word order of a sentence EX: "In silent night when rest I took, / For sorrow near I did not look..."89
8324374610Rhetorical Questiona question asked for rhetorical effect to emphasize a point, the answer being implied EX: "But how can we expect to enjoy the scenery when the scenery consists entirely of garish billboards?"90
8324400438Syllogisma form of deductive reasoning in which a generally accepted major premise is made, a related minor premise follows, which then leads inevitably to one logical conclusion EX: All dogs are mammals. A Labrador is a dog. Therefore, a Labrador is a mammal.91
8324452872Inductive Reasoninga form of reasoning which works from a body of facts to the formulation of a generalization EX: Crimes are often solved trough inductive reasoning. Evidence is gathered and analyzed, and then a theory or generalization is made about who did it.92
8324567270Exigencyan issue, problem, or situation that causes or prompts someone to write or speak93
8339523874False AnalogyIllogically drawing a comparison between two things that have no similarities EX: Letting prisoners out on early release is like absolving them of their crimes.94
8359217604Argument Ad HominemAttacking a person's character rather than his/ her argument EX: You can't trust Jones's theory of electromagnetic particles cause he's a communist.95
8359287687Non Sequiter FallacyAn inference or conclusion that does not follow from established premises or evidence EX: Tens of thousands of Americans have seen lights in the night sky which they could not identify. The existence of life on other planets is fast becoming certainty.96
8359413379Either/ Or FallacyA fallacy in argument that occurs when someone is asked to choose between two options when there are clearly other alternatives EX: If you don't support the war, then you are on the side of the terroists.97
8359463622Sweeping GeneralizationThe use of a statement in an all-inclusive way without allowing for any exceptions, such as a stereotype EX: Democrats and Republicans never get along with each other, so you and Steve will not like each other since he is a Republican and you are a Democrat.98
8360560237Straw Man FallacyAn argument which misrepresents a position in order to make it appear weaker than it actually is, refutes this misrepresentation of the position, and then concludes that the real position has been refuted EX: Senator Jones says that we should not fund the attack submarine program. I disagree entirely. I can't understand why he wants to leave us completely defenseless like that.99
8360664817Hasty GeneralizationA fallacy in which one jumps to a conclusion that far exceeds what the evidence supports EX: My roommate said her philosophy class was hard, and the one I'm in is hard, too. Philosophy is just impossible to understand!100
8360742012Reductive FallacyA fallacy of questionable cause that occurs when it is assumed that there is a single, simple cause of an outcome when in reality it may have been caused by a number of only jointly sufficient causes. Also called oversimplification. EX: The school shooters played violent video games, so that caused them to become violent.101
8360863962False AuthorityA fallacy that occurs when a person making a claim is presented as an expert who would be trusted when when his or her expertise is not in the area being discussed. EX: According to Oprah, Green is the best toothpaste for your teeth.102
8360945512Bandwagon103
8428597965ForeshadowingA warning or indication of a future event104
8428610368PersonificationThe attribution of a personal nature or human characteristics to something non-human ,or the representation of an abstract quality in human form105
8428632119Logical FallacyAn error in reasoning that renders an argument invalid106
8428641668AllegoryA story, poem, or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one107
8428659969Tragic HeroA literary character who makes a judgement error that inevitably leads to his/her own destruction108
8428703806VengeancePunishment inflicted in retaliation for an injury or offense109
8428728631UnequivocalLeaving no doubt110
8428762654ScornfulFull of open dislike and disrespect or derision often mixed indignation111
8428787085SusceptibleCapable of submitting to an action, process, or operation112
8428808667SupernaturalOf or relating to an order of existence beyond the visible observable universe113
8428851837ResentmentA feeling of indignant displeasure or persistent ill will at something regarded as a wrong, insult, or injury114
8462452447Antagonismactive hostility or opposition115
8462461659Expertisea special skill or knowledge that is acquired by training, study, or practice116
8462469489Adulteryvoluntary sexual intercourse between a married person and a person who isn't his/ her spouse117
8462479190Lecherylustfulness118
8462483270Depositiona testifying especially before a court119
8463113709Affidavita written statement confirmed by oath or affirmation, for use as evidence in court.120
8463129531Denouncepublicly declare to be wrong or evil121
8463151860Predispositiona liability or tendency to suffer from a particular condition, hold a particular attitude, or act in a particular way.122
8463160949Deflectcause (something) to change direction by interposing something123
8463175251Hysteriaexaggerated or uncontrollable emotion or excitement, especially among a group of people124
8463196518Contemptuousshowing the feeling that a person or a thing is beneath consideration, worthless, or deserving scorn125
8463231828Incredulousunwilling or unable to believe something126
8463238235Exasperatedirritate intensely127
8463258831Ambiguousopen to more than one interpretation or having a double meaning128
8463269562Adherenceattachment or commitment to a person, cause, or belief129
8543334418Apostrophethe act of speaking directly to an absent or imaginary person or to some abstraction130
8543339494Archetypean original model or type after which other similar things are patterned131
8543341478Blank Versepoetry usually written in unrhymed pattern132
8543345365Conceitfanciful, particularly clever extended metaphor133
8543348367Connotationthe implied134
8551441609DialectA variety of speech characterized by its own particularly grammar or pronunciation or region135
8692706794DidacticSomething which has as its primary purpose to teach or instruct.136
8692716383DissonanceHarsh, inharmonious, or discordant sounds137
8692721017ElegyPoem that mourns the death of a person or laments something lost138
8693023416End-Stopped LinePoetic device in which a pause comes at the end of a syntactic unit with punctuation mark or full stop139
8693038396EpiphanyA moment of sudden revelation or insight140
8693050876JuxtapositionPlacing two elements side by side to present a comparison or contrast141
8693077907MotifStandard theme or action or dramatic situation which recurs in a literary work.142
8693161977AphorismA statement of truth or opinion expressed in a concise and witty manner143
8693169305AbsoluteA word free from limitations or qualifications EX: best, all, unique, or perfect144

AP Language Vocabulary Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
8788419779themeThe main idea or abstract meaning central to a piece0
8788425650treatisea formal written work discussing the facts, conclusions, and principles behind a subject1
8788435263analogya comparison of two things based on their being alike in some way2
8788441147metonymya figure of speech that uses the name of one thing to replace that of another with which it is associated3
8788465033diatribea forceful verbal attack4
8788467593ironyan expression in which the intended meaning is the opposite of what is stated5
8788477349sarcasma sharp, taunting attitude conveyed through jibes and remarks6
8788485221figures of speecha word or phrase used in a non-literal sense to imply meaning7
8788492123semanticsthe study of meanings in a language8
8788496681syllogisman deductive argument consisting of a major premise, minor premise, and a conclusion9
8788506719solecisma violation of the conventional usage of a language10
8788557605stylea distinctive manner of expressing in writing or speech11
8788617710onomatopoeiathe use of words whose sounds suggest their meaning12
8788623166devicesomething in a literary work designed to achieve a particular effect13
8788632657diction1. the clearness of a person's speech 2. the way in which words are used in speech and writing14
8788645668similea comparison using the words like or as15
8788649360periodic sentencea sentence that expresses its main thought at the end16
8788657287prepositional phrasea phrase that contains a preposition and its object17
8788664132contemplative1. a person who practices deep thought 2. relating to deep thought18
8788699556deductivea type of reasoning in which conclusions are drawn from premises and definitions19
8788711998conveyto communicate a message20
8788719060antithesis/antithetical1. a contrast of thoughts, usually in two clauses or phrases 2. being in direct opposition21
8788876028Appeal to Authoritya fallacy in which an authority is inappropriately used as evidence22
8788928627aphorisma short phrase that expresses a wise idea or saying23
8788935334concretea highly specific and tangible detail or object24
8788952605connotationthe suggested or implied meaning of a word25
8788964103invectivea direct verbal attack or an abusive term26
8788977815allusionan indirect or casual reference27
8789005666rebuttala speech in which opposing arguments are anticipated and answered28
8788987796parallelismwhen grammatical ideas or phrases are in the same form29
8789039878syntaxthe organization of language into meaningful structure30
8789043830tonethe characteristic emotion or attitude that pervades a work31
8789049291understatementa statement that makes something seem smaller or less important than it really is32
8789065702wita quickness of intellect or ability to write clever things33
8789076501anticlimaxa disappointing end to an exciting series of events34
8789082143assertiona confident statement of fact or belief35
8789090818apostrophean exclamation addressed to a person or personified object that is absent36
8789127763climaxthe high or turning point of a story or play37
8789133099conceitan extremely dramatic metaphor38
8789139915counterexamplean example that opposes or contradicts an idea or theory39
8789146185cynicisman attitude of scornful negativity40
8789157469ethosa speaker or author's credibility on a subject41
8789170582fallacyan incorrect belief based on faulty evidence42
8789175328farcea type of highly exaggerated comedy43
8789189119genrea literary form or type44
8789197884imperative mooda verb mood expressing a command45
8789206268inversiona reversal of the normal order of words in a sentence46
8789212143abstract1. a concept thought of apart from any particular material objects 2. a brief statement of the main thoughts of a book or article47
8789238563antecedent1. an event logically preceding 2. a word or phrase to be replaced by another word48
8789259184colloquialisman informal expression typical to a particular language49
8789270839excerpta small, extracted passage from a longer written work50
8789277468expositorydescribing explanatory writing51
8789323840extended metaphora series of comparisons between two unlike52
8789338296extended similea simile developed over several lines53
8789348269footnotea note with added information placed below printed text54
8789375863hyperbolean overstatement or exaggeration for rhetorical effect55
8789391895jargon1. incomprehensible speech 2. the specialized vocabulary of a profession56
8789406665juxtapositionthe contrasting effect of two things being placed close together57
8789421282hypothetical examplea fictional example used to explain a complicated topic58
8789440902pedanticembodying narrow-mindedness59
8789444563metaphora figure of speech that compares unlike objects60
8789452228prosaicunpoetic, dull, ordinary61
8789485339stancean intellectual or emotional attitude62
8789496190symbolan object used to represent something abstract63
8789504975allegorya story in which a second meaning is implied64
8789514139alliterationa repetition of initial consonants65
8789523464proseany writing that is not poetry66
8789526712lyricalhaving an artistically beautiful and reflective quality67
8789536030euphemisma mild substitute for a possibly offensive word68
8789555996homilya religious or moral sermon meant to guide human behavior69
8789574716parodyan imitation of a work meant to ridicule style and subject70
8789582535pathosan emotional appeal used to persuade71
8789595883imagerythe representation of objects and actions that appeals to our physical senses72
8789613228narrativea form of writing that tells a story73
8789619431oxymorona figure of speech in which contradictory ideas or terms are juxtaposed74
8789628943personificationa figure of speech in which objects are animals are given human characteristics75
8789638222illustrateto clarify or explain using pictures or examples76
8789652941paradox/paradoxical1. a statement that seems self-contradictory but is actually true 2. being unusual or not normal77
8789671588point of view1. the narrator's position in relation to a story 2. a particular attitude or stance78
8789686739elegiacexpressing sorrow or lamentation79
8789704269mood1. the emotional tone or atmosphere in a work of literature 2. the intent of a particular sentence80
8789724358puna humorous play on words81
8789734013refuteto prove an argument wrong by using other evidence82
8789752634rhetoricthe art of using language effectively and persuasively in writing and speech83
8789774685subordinate clausea dependent clause modifying an independent clause84
8789848840purposea writer's reason or goal in their writing85
8789858066qualifyto describe by giving the qualities or characteristics of something86
8789879178satirea literary style that mocks or ridicules an idea87
8789889509inferencea conclusion reached by considering the relevant facts and evidence88
8789899815epiloguea closing section of writing that provides further information89
8789907707epiphanyan realization or revealing moment90
8789915967digressiona temporary departure from the main subject of conversation91
8789921975dogmathe established opinion of a church, government, etc.92
8789931507enumerateto count or list93
8789948812enunciateto clearly pronounce or proclaim94
8789953066ambiguitythe lack of a single, clear meaning95
8789960159author's purposethe author's reason for writing96
8789974430didacticdesigned or intended to teach others97
8789979529clausea structural element of a sentence containing both a subject and a predicate98
8789989248denotationthe dictionary definition of a word99
8789996499anecdote/anecdotal1. a short, entertaining account or story 2. based on observations of unscientific observers100
8790012712clichéan expression that has become ineffective through overuse101
8790023896logosthe logic and evidence used by a speaker or writer to support a claim102
8790038454chiasmusan inverted relationship between the syntactic elements of parallel phrases Ex: You forget what you want to remember, and you remember what you want to forget.103
8790064246anaphorathe repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses104
8790073267zeugmathe use of a word to modify two or more words in a way that applies to each in a different sense or makes sense with only one105
8790110319epistrophethe repetition of a word at the end of successive clauses106
8856901305acerbica sharply critical or sarcastic tone107
8856924390ambivalentshowing contradictory feelings toward something simultaneously108
9087727035antimetabolea repetition of words in successive clauses but in reverse order109

ap language, set 4 Flashcards

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7279309967euphemismindirect, less offensive way of saying something that is considered unpleasant0
7279309968expletivemeaningless word; interjection; profane oath; swear-word1
7279309969extended metaphora series of comparisons between two unlike objects2
7279309970fallacya mistaken belief, especially one based on unsound argument3
7279309971forensic rhetoricfocuses on the past, an argument that determines guilt or innocence4
7279309972foreshadowinguse of hints or clues to suggest something later in the plot5
7279309973genrea major category or type of literature6
7279309974homerismthe unabashed use of illogic7
7279309975homilya lecture or sermon on a religious moral meant to teach a lesson8
7279309976hyperboleexaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally9
7279309977hypophorathe technique of asking a question, then proceeding to answer it10
7279309978idioman expression with a meaning different from the literal meaning of the individual words11
7279309979ignoratio elenchithe fallacy of proving the wrong conclusion12
7279309980inductionmoving from facts to generalizations13
7279309981inference/inferto draw a reasonable conclusion from the information presented14
7279309982innuendoan allusive or oblique remark or hint, typically a suggestive or disparaging one15
7279309983ironythe use of words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of its literal meaning16
7279309984jargonnonsensical talk; specialized language17
7279309985juxtapositionnormally unassociated words are placed next to each other18
7279309986kairosart of seizing the occasion, covers timing and the appropriate medium19

AP Lang: The Language of AP Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
10331960355Argumentationthe action or process of reasoning systematically in support of an idea, action, or theory.0
10331960727Rhetoriclanguage designed to have a persuasive or impressive effect on its audience, but often regarded as lacking in sincerity or meaningful content.1
10331961721Similea figure of speech involving the comparison of one thing with another thing of a different kind, used to make a description more emphatic or vivid.2
10331962084Metaphora figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable.3
10331963717Alliterationthe occurrence of the same letter or sound at the beginning of adjacent or closely connected words.4
10331964291Parallelismthe use of successive verbal constructions in poetry or prose that correspond in grammatical structure, sound, meter, meaning, etc.5
10331964652Cacophonythe use of words with sharp, harsh, hissing, and unmelodious sounds - primarily those of consonants - to achieve desired results.6
10331965884Oxymorona figure of speech in which apparently contradictory terms appear in conjunction.7
10331966516Litotesfigure of speech that employs an understatement by using double negatives or, in other words, a positive statement expressed by negating its opposite expressions.8
10331966971Hyperbolea figure of speech that involves an exaggeration of ideas for the sake of emphasis.9
10331967659Synecdochea figure of speech in which a part is made to represent the whole or vice versa.10
10331967988Euphemisma mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh or blunt when referring to something unpleasant or embarrassing.11
10331968586Analogya comparison in which an idea or a thing is compared to another thing that is quite different from it; aims at explaining that idea or thing by comparing it to something that is familiar.12
10331969007Ironya figure of speech in which words are used in such a way that their intended meaning is different from the actual meaning of the words; may also be a situation that ends up in quite a different way than what is generally anticipated.13
10331969310Anaphorathe repetition of a certain word or phrase at the beginning of successive lines of writing or speech; most commonly seen in poetry, essays, and formal speeches.14
10331969682Anecdotea very short story that is significant to the topic at hand; usually adding personal knowledge or experience to the topic.15
10331970043Antithesisa figure of speech in which an opposition or contrast of ideas is expressed by parallelism of words that are the opposites of, or strongly contrasted with, each other.16
10331970503Apostrophean exclamatory passage in a speech or poem addressed to a person (typically one who is dead or absent) or thing (typically one that is personified).17
10331971227Appeals(in classical rhetoric) one of the three main persuasive strategies as defined by Aristotle in his Rhetoric: the appeal to logic (logos), the appeal to the emotions (pathos), and the appeal to the character (or perceived character) of the speaker (ethos). Also called a rhetorical appeal.18
10331972197Ethosthe ethical appeal, means to convince an audience of the author's credibility or character.19
10331972610Logosa literary device that can be defined as a statement, sentence, or argument used to convince or persuade the targeted audience by employing reason or logic.20
10331974303Pathosa quality of an experience in life, or a work of art, that stirs up emotions of pity, sympathy, and sorrow; a method of convincing people with an argument drawn out through an emotional response.21
10331974533Audiencethe person for whom a writer writes; the spectators, listeners, and intended readers of a writing, performance, or speech.22
10331975355Exempluma rhetorical device that is defined as a short tale, narrative, or anecdote used in literary pieces and speeches to explain a doctrine, or emphasize a moral point, generally in the forms of legends, folktales, and fables.23
10331977597Hypothesis24
10331977931Logical Fallacya concept within argumentation that commonly leads to an error in reasoning due to the deceptive nature of its presentation.25
10331978496Logical Proofproof that is derived explicitly from its premises without exception; establishes its conclusion beyond any possibility of doubt.26
10331978862Metonymya figure of speech that consists of the use of the name of one object or concept for that of another to which it is related.27
10331979447Non sequitura conclusion or statement that does not logically follow from the previous argument or statement.28
10331980856Onomatopoeiathe process of creating a word that phonetically imitates, resembles, or suggests the sound that it describes.29
10331981576Personificationthe attribution of a personal nature or human characteristics to something nonhuman, or the representation of an abstract quality in human form.30
10332515473Parallel Structurerepetition of a chosen grammatical form within a sentence; using the same pattern of words to show that two or more ideas have the same level of importance.31
10332555991Pragmatisma philosophical movement that includes those who claim that an ideology or proposition is true if it works satisfactorily, that the meaning of a proposition is to be found in the practical consequences of accepting it, and that unpractical ideas are to be rejected.32
10332557320Rebuttala literary technique in which a speaker or writer uses argument, and presents reasoning or evidence intended to undermine or weaken the claim of an opponent.33
10332557812Semanticsthe study and analysis of how language is used figuratively and literally to produce meaning.34
10332558805Skepticisman attitude of doubt or a disposition to incredulity either in general or toward a particular object; the doctrine that true knowledge or some particular knowledge is uncertain.35
10332559666Tonean attitude of a writer toward a subject or an audience; the effect that the writer creates on the readers through choice of writing style.36
10332562690Rhetorical questiona question asked in order to create a dramatic effect or to make a point rather than to get an answer.37

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