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AP Language Unit 6 Flashcards

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9602057358*periodic sentencemain clause ends the sentence (noun)0
9602057359permeatedspread or flowing throughout (verb)1
9602057360perniciouscausing great alarm (adj.)2
9602057361*personathe speaker, voice, or character assumed by the author of a piece of writing (noun)3
9602057362pervasivedispersed throughout (adj.)4
9602057363plausibleseemingly valid or acceptable; credible (adj.)5
9602057364poignantprofoundly moving (adj.)6
9602057365polemicargument against an idea, usually regarding philosophy, politics, or religion (polemical = controversial) (adj.)7
9602057366*polysyndetondeliberate use of a series of conjunctions (noun)8
9602057367ponderousextremely dull (adj.)9
9602057368prodigiousenormous (adj.)10
9602057369proliferateto grow or increase rapidly (verb)11
9602057370propitiouspresenting favorable circumstances (adj.)12
9602057371proprietyappropriateness of behavior (noun)13
9602057372prosaicdull (adj.)14
9602057373prudentexercising good judgment (adj.)15
9602057374pugnaciouscombative, belligerent (adj.)16
9602057375quandarystate of perplexity or uncertainty (noun)17
9602057376querulouscomplaining in a petulant or whining manner (adj.)18
9602057377rancorousmarked by deep-seated ill will (adj.)19

AP Language VOCAB Flashcards

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8682661714OratoryNoun: art of public speaking0
8682663015SpurnVerb: To reject w/ disdain1
8682664169EschewVerb: To abstain or keep away from2
8682667044StridentAdj: Having a loud or annoying character3
8682670138VassalNoun: Someone granted land in exchange for services4
8682673901FomentVerb: Instigate rebellion/ promote development of5
8682675148AbhorVerb: To regard with extreme disgust6
8682677069ProvidenceNoun: the forseeing care and guidance of god7
8682678465QuarryNoun: An animal/object being hunted8
8682680148ErrantAdj: Straying the proper course of standards9
8682683933ElicitVerb: To evoke a response in reaction to ones actions10
8682686647WarrenlikeAdj: Like a maze11
8682688294SolaceNoun: comfort, relief; Verb: to comfort, console12
8682690275Ad HocAdj: for or concerned with one specific purpose13
8682693102CursoryAdj: Done or made quickly14
8682694168CongenialAdj: Pleasing in nature or character15
8682695541Effect (as a verb)Verb: To cause16
8682695543PrudenceNoun: act of being cautious with regard to the future17
8682697367UsurpationNoun: act of taking position of power by force or illegally18
8682699685DespotismNoun: Exercise of absolute power, especially in an oppressive way19
8682701437FranchiseNoun: right to vote20
8682702432RemunerationNoun: money paid for work or service21
8682703519ApostolicAdj: Characteristic of apostle22
8682706070AbjectAdj: Completely without dignity23
8682707261ObdurateAdj: stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or course of action24
8682709963BequeathVerb: to give or leave by will25
8682710857FettersNoun: A chain or shackle for the feet26
8682711880PlaintiveAdj: Expressive of suffering or woe27
8682713485MirthNoun: Amusement as expressed in laughter28
8682714397CleaveVerb: To be stuck or held together, resist separation29
8682716241EquivocateVerb: To use ambiguous language to avoid committing oneself30
8682719718TitularAdj: having a title belonging to an office w/o duties, responsibilities or power31
8682721608PontificateVerb: Express one's opinions in a way considered annoyingly pompous and dogmatic32
8682724196AntithesisNoun: A person or thing that is the direct opposite of something else33
8682726285PabulumNoun: bland intellectual fare34
8682728268DeposeVerb: to remove from a throne or other high position35
8682729178Concurverb: to agree36
8682731871IndiscriminateAdj: Done at random without careful judgement37
8682732697RemonstranceNoun: Act of pleading in protest, objection or disapproval38
8682735933RepudiateVerb: to reject as having no authority39
8682736832LedgerNoun: account book where business transactions are recorded40
8682741748NeuroticNoun: a person suffering from feeling of anixety and obsessive thoughts41
8682743751EvadeVerb: to escape or avoid, esp. by trickery42
8682744899EccentricAdj: Unconventional and strange43
8682745786EsteemedAdj: respected and admired44
8682748489Bourgeois & Petit BourgeoisAdj: characteristic of the middle class, negative materialistic values. PB: adj: lower middle class, social climber45
8682750859EpitaphNoun: inscription on a tomb46
8682752170VigilantAdj: keeping careful watch for possible danger47
8682754848Incongruousadj: not harmonious or in character, out of place48
8682756143HatemongerNoun: a person who kindles hatred in others49
8682757230IdeologyNoun: the content of thinking characteristic of an individual person (a belief)50
8682760166MeritocracyNoun: government or the holding of power by people selected by their ability51
8682764880FacetiousAdj: Humorous in a way that can be rude or disrespectful52
8682766467CorollaryNoun: a natural consequence or result53
8682767837NormativeNoun: of or relating to determining norms/standards54
8682770188Perquisitenoun: a privilege, gain or profit in addition to regular wages55
8682774678TaxonomyNoun: A system of classification for something, especially scientific56
8682777993DisparageVerb: to regard or represent as being of little or no worth57
8682779419ConferVerb: to grant or bestow, in the case of a title, degree, benefit or right58
8682781166PalliateVerb: to make something bad less unpleasant w/o removing the real cause59
8682784382ImplicitAdj: Implied by not plainly expressed60
8682785413AttestVerb: to provide or serve as clear evidence of something61
8682786709Mortificationnoun: great embarrassment and shame62
8682788211EvinceVerb: to reveal the presence of63
8682790169blightnoun: cause of ruin/destruction; death of plant tissues64
8682791762ChattelNoun: a movable item of personal property65
8682792968SurmountableAdj: capable of being overcome, dealt with66
8682794347transgressiveadj: involving a violation of accepted or imposed boundaries, esp. social67
8682801551ascribeverb: to assign or refer to68
8682804041reparationsnoun: the making of amends for a wrongdoing, by paying money or otherwise helping them69
8682805784genteelAdj: polite/refined often in an affected or ostentatious way70
8682808003vernacularnoun: language or dialect spoken by ordinary people in a particular country or region71

AP Language Rhetorical Vocab #2 Flashcards

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4798557780AnaphoraA rhetorical figure of repetition in which the same word or phrase is repeated in (and usually at the beginning of) successive lines, clauses, or sentences.0
4798567167Anastrophethe inversion of the usual order of words or clauses.1
4798568767AntithesisA balancing of two opposite or contrasting words, phrases, or clauses.2
4798569919AssonanceRepetition of a vowel sound within two or more words in close proximity3
4798571145Asyndetonthe omission or absence of a conjunction between parts of a sentence.4
4798574095ChiasmusA statement consisting of two parallel parts in which the second part is structurally reversed ("Susan walked in, and out rushed Mary.")5
4798575811ConsonanceRepetition of a consonant sound within two or more words in close proximity.6
4798577239MetaphorA comparison that establishes a figurative identity between objects being compared.7
4798579080PolysyndetonThe use of consecutive coordinating conjunctions even when they are not needed. The effect is to render the reader somewhat breathless. He was overwhelmed, as is by a tsunami, and by the fishes, and by the seaweed, and by the salt spray from the heavens.8
4798580911ParadoxA statement or proposition that seems self-contradictory or absurd but in reality expresses a possible truth.9
4798582108TricolonSentence consisting of three parts of equal importance and length, usually three independent clauses.10

ap language, set 10 Flashcards

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7830884417chidedscolded, rebuked0
7830884418coalescedcome together and form one mass or whole1
7830884419contentedlysatisfied2
7830884420contrivancea thing that is created skillfully and inventively to serve a particular purpose3
7830884421cordiallyin a friendly manner, warmly4
7830884422delusivegiving a false or misleading impression5
7830884423demonstrativeexpressing emotion freely6
7830884424demuresober or serious in manner, modest7
7830884425deposetopple from power8
7830884426depredationplundering; destruction9
7830884427dirgefuneral hymn10
7830884428discoursediscussion11
7830884429disengageddisconnected, disassociated12
7830884430dismalcausing gloom or misery13
7830884431disreputablenot respectable, not esteemed14
7830884432dogmateaching of the Church revealed by God15
7830884433ebbinglessening or weakening16
7830884434eccentricunconventional and slightly strange17
7830884435emphaticforcibly expressive18
7830884436extentuateto lessen the seriousness or magnitude of an offense by making partial excuses19

AP Language Terms Flashcards

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7553967295AllegoryCharacter or story elements used to represent a hidden meaning0
7553967296Allusiondirect or indirect reference to something commonly known, event, book, etc. "chocolate was her achilles heel"1
7553967297Antecedentword or phrase to which a pronoun refers (jim gave dad HIS glove)2
7553967298AphorismStatement of general truth or moral principle (actions speak louder than words)3
7553967299ApostropheFigure of speech using imaginary person or personified abstraction. Can also use personification (roll on blue ocean)4
7553967300ClauseIndependent, or dependent. Contains subject and verb.5
7553967301DictionAuthors word choice/style6
7553967302Euphemism"Good speech" less offensive word substitute (instead of "corpse" "umearthly remains")7
7553967303HyperboleFigure of speech in which the truth is exaggerated for emphasis or humorous effect (MANY died, power out everywhere, national tragedy etc.)8
7553967304InferenceA conclusion reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning9
7553967305Metaphorcomparison of two unlike things not using like or as10
7553967306Metonymy"Changed label" name of object is changed to something closely resembling it11
7553967307Parodya work which imitates another in a ridiculous manner12
7553967308Personificationthe giving of human qualities to an animal, object, or idea13
7553967309point of viewThe perspective from which a story is told, first and third14
7553967310ProseRefers to fiction and nonfiction. The way we speak "statements"15
7553967311rhetorical questionA question asked merely for effect with no answer expected.16
7553967312Satireusing humor to expose something or someone to ridicule. (Sarcasm, foolishness, ex: SNL)17
7553967313SimileA comparison using "like" or "as"18
7553967314SyllogismA form of reasoning in which two statements are made and a conclusion is drawn from them. (All dogs have 4 legs. Rover is a dog. Rover had 4 legs)19
7553967315SymbolismAnything that represents itself and stands for something else. Natural, conventional, and literary. (Love, an eagle, etc.)20
7553967316SyntaxWay author chooses to join words into phrases or sentences. Sentence structure(ppl who text on their phones while watching a movie are very annoying)21
7553967317ThemeThe central idea or message of a work, the insight it offers into life22
7553967318UnderstatementA statement that says less than what is meant. Opposite of hyperbole. (Its pretty flooded.)23

AP Language Literary Terms, AP Language terms Flashcards

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9917773718Cumulative (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
9917773719Periodic Sentencea sentence that, by leaving the completion of its main clause to the end, produces an effect of suspense.1
9917773720Litotes/Understatementa figure of speech in which a negative statement is used to affirm a positive statement.2
9917773721Warrantexpresses the assumption necessarily shared by the speaker and the audience.3
9917773722Ethosan appeal to ethics and it is a means of convincing someone of the character or credibility of the persuader.4
9917773723Pathosan appeal to emotion, and is a way of convincing an audience of an argument by creating an emotional response.5
9917773724Logosan appeal to logic, and is a way of persuading an audience by reason.6
9917773725Concessionan acknowledgement that an opposing argument may be true or reasonable.7
9917773726SyllogismA logical structure that uses the major premise and minor premise to reach a necessary conclusion.8
9917773727Major premisecontains the term that is the predicate of the conclusion.9
9917773728Minor premisecontains the term that is the subject of the conclusion.10
9917773729Inductiona 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
9917773730Deductiona logical process wherein you reach a conclusion by starting with a general principle or universal truth (a major premise).12
9917773731Equivocationa fallacy of argument in which a lie is given the appearance of truth, or in which the truth is misrepresented in deceptive language.13
9917773732Refutationa denial of the validity of an opposing argument.14
9917773733Dictiona speaker's choice of words. Analysis of diction looks at these choices and what they add to the speaker's message.15
9917773734Similea 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
9917773735Metaphorfigure of speech that compares two unlike things without using like or as.17
9917773736Anaphorathe intentional repetition of beginning clauses in order to create an artistic effect.18
9917773737Rhetoricit is the art of finding ways of persuading an audience.19
9917773738Rhetorical Trianglespeaker-subject-audience20
9917773739Allusionbrief reference to a person, event, or place (real or fictitious) to to a work of art.21
9917773740Hyperboledeliberate exaggeration used for emphasis or to produce a comic or ironic effect; an overstatement to make a point.22
9917773741Personificationattribution of a lifelike quality to an inanimate object or an idea.23
9917773742Asyndetonomission of conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses, or words.24
9917773743Polysyndetonthe deliberate use of multiple conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses or words.25
9917773744Parallelismsimilarity of structure in a pair or series of related words, phrases, or clauses.26
9917773745Antithesisopposition, or contrast or ideas or words in a parallel construction.27
9917773746Enumerationto mention separately as if in counting; name one by one; specify, as in list28
9917773747Rhetorical 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
9917773748Chiasmusthe reversal in the order of words in two otherwise parallel phrases. Ex.) He went to the country, the country went to him.30
9917773749RebuttalIn the Toulon model, a rebuttal gives voice to possible objections.31
9917773750Fallacy of Argumenta flaw in the structure of an argument that renders its conclusion invalid or suspect.32
9917773751Bandwagon Appeala fallacy of argument in which a course of action is recommended on the grounds that everyone else is following it.33
9917773752Begging the Questiona fallacy of argument in which a claim is based on the very grounds that are in doubt or dispute.34
9917773753Anecdotea brief story used to illustrate a point or claim.35
9917773754Modes 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
9917773755Examplea specific event, person, or detail of an idea cited and/or developed to support or illustrate a thesis or topic.37
9917773756Contrast/ 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
9917773757Cause and Effectestablishes a relationship: B is the result of A.39
9917773758Classificationseparates items into major categories and details the characteristics of each group is placed within the category.40
9917773759Processsimply "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
9917773760Definitionidentifies the class to which a specific term belongs and those characteristics which make it different from all the other items in that class.42
9917773761Narrationis nothing more than storytelling. There is a beginning, a middle, and an end.43
9917773762Descriptionwriting 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
9917773763Dogmatism`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
9917773764False 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
9917773765False authoritya fallacy of argument in which a claim is based on the expertise of someone who lacks appropriate credentials.47
9917773766Faulty 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
9917773767Hasty generalizationa fallacy of argument in which an inference is drawn from insufficient data.49
9917773768Non sequitora fallacy of argument in which claims, reasons, or warrants fail to connect logically; one point doesn't follow from another.50
9917773787AllegoryThe 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
9917773788AlliterationThe repetition of sounds, especially initial consonant sounds in two or more neighboring words (as in "she sells sea shells").52
9917773789AllusionA direct or indirect reference to something which is presumably commonly known, such as an event, book, myth, place, or work of art.53
9917773790AmbiguityThe multiple meanings, either intentional or unintentional, of a word, phrase, sentence, or passage.54
9917773791AnalogyA similarity or comparison between two different things or the relationship between them.55
9917773792AntecedentThe word, phrase, or clause referred to by a pronoun.56
9917773793Antithesisthe opposition or contrast of ideas; the direct opposite.57
9917773794AphorismA 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
9917773795ApostropheA 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
9917773796AtmosphereThe 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
9917773797Caricaturea verbal description, the purpose of which is to exaggerate or distort, for comic effect, a person's distinctive physical features or other characteristics.61
9917773798ClauseA grammatical unit that contains both a subject and a verb.62
9917773799Colloquial/ColloquialismThe use of slang or informalities in speech or writing.63
9917773800Literary 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
9917773801ConnotationThe non-literal, associative meaning of a word; the implied, suggested meaning.65
9917773802DenotationThe strict, literal, dictionary definition of a word, devoid of any emotion, attitude, or color.66
9917773803DictionRelated to style, diction refers to the writer's word choices, especially with regard to their correctness, clearness, or effectiveness.67
9917773804DidacticFrom the Greek, didactic literally means "teaching."68
9917773805EuphemismFrom the Greek for "good speech," euphemisms are a more agreeable or less offensive substitute for a generally unpleasant word or concept - POLITICALLY CORRECT69
9917773806Extended MetaphorA metaphor developed at great length, occurring frequently in or throughout a work.70
9917773807Figurative LanguageWriting or speech that is not intended to carry literal meaning and is usually meant to be imaginative and vivid71
9917773808Figure 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
9917773809GenreThe major category into which a literary work fits. The basic divisions of literature are prose, poetry, and drama.73
9917773810HomilyThis term literally means "sermon," but more informally, it can include any serious talk, speech, or lecture involving moral or spiritual advice.74
9917773811HyperboleA figure of speech using deliberate exaggeration or overstatement. (The literal Greek meaning is "overshoot.")75
9917773812ImageryThe sensory details or figurative language used to describe, arouse emotion, or represent abstractions.76
9917773813Inference/inferTo draw a reasonable conclusion from the information presented.77
9917773814Invectivean emotionally violent, verbal denunciation or attack using strong, abusive language.78
9917773815Irony/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
9917773816Loose 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
9917773817MetaphorA figure of speech using implied comparison of seemingly unlike things or the substitution of one for the other, suggesting some similarity.81
9917773818MetonymyA figure of speech in which the name of one object is substituted for that of another closely associated with it.82
9917773819MoodThe prevailing atmosphere or emotional aura of a work.83
9917773820NarrativeThe telling of a story or an account of an event or series of events.84
9917773821onomatopoeiaA figure of speech in which natural sounds are imitated in the sounds of words.85
9917773822OxymoronOxymoron is a figure of speech wherein the author groups apparently contradictory terms to suggest a paradox.86
9917773823ParadoxA statement that appears to be self-contradictory or opposed to common sense but upon closer inspection contains some degree of truth or validity.87
9917773824Parallelismthe use of successive verbal constructions in poetry or prose that correspond in grammatical structure, sound, meter, meaning, etc.88
9917773825ParodyA work that closely imitates the style or content of another with the specific aim of comic effect and/or ridicule.89
9917773826PedanticAn 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
9917773827Periodic sentenceThe opposite of loose sentence, a sentence that presents its central meaning in a main clause at the end.91
9917773828PersonificationA figure of speech in which the author presents or describes concepts, animals, or inanimate objects by endowing them with human attributes or emotions.92
9917773829Point of viewIn literature, the perspective from which a story is told.93
9917773830Prosewritten or spoken language in its ordinary form, without metrical structure.94
9917773831RepetitionThe duplication, either exact or approximate, of any element of language, such as a sound, word, phrase, clause, sentence, or grammatical pattern.95
9917773832RhetoricFrom the Greek for "orator," this term describes the principles governing the art of writing effectively, eloquently, and persuasively.96
9917773833SarcasmInvolves bitter, caustic language that is meant to hurt or ridicule someone or something.97
9917773834SatireA work that targets human vices and follies or social institutions and conventions for reform or ridicule.98
9917773835Subordinate 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
9917773836SyllogismA 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
9917773837Symbol/symbolismGenerally, anything that represents itself and stands for something else.101
9917773838SyntaxThe way an author chooses to join words into phrases, clauses, and sentences.102
9917773839ThemeThe central idea or message of a work, the insight it offers into life.103
9917773840ThesisThe sentence or group of sentences that directly expresses the author's opinion, purpose, meaning, or position.104
9917773841ToneDescribes the author's attitude toward his material, the audience, or both.105
9917773842TransitionA 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
9917773843Understatementthe ironic minimalizing of fact; presents something as less significant than it is.107
9917773844Witin modern usage, intellectually amusing language that surprises and delights.108
9917773845Slippery SlopeThis is the failure to provide evidence to support a claim that one event will lead to a catastrophic chain of events.109
9917773846straw manWhen a writer argues against a claim that nobody actually holds or is universally considered weak.110
9917773847EthosAn 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
9917773848JuxtapositionMaking on idea more dramatic by placing it next to its opposite.112
9917773849LogosAn appeal to reason.113
9917773850PathosAn appeal to emotion.114
9917773851Rhetorical QuestionA question whose answer is assumed.115
9917773852SimileA 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
9917773853rhetorical 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
9917773854descriptive detailWhen an essay uses this phrase, look for the writer's sensory description.118
9917773855devicesThe figures of speech, syntax, diction, and other stylistic elements that collectively produce a particular artistic effect.119
9917773856narrative 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
9917773857narrative 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
9917773858Ad hominem argumentAn argument attacking an individual's character rather than his or her position on an issue122
9917773859AnaphoraFigure 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
9917773860AnecdoteA brief story that illustrates or makes a point124
9917773861Appeal 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
9917773862Argumentationone 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
9917773863AssonanceRepetition of a vowel sound within two or more words in close proximity127
9917773864AsyndetonA series of words separated by commas (with no conjunction).128
9917773865toneA speaker's, author's, or character's disposition toward or opinion of a subject.129
9917773866audienceOne's listener or readership; those to whom a speech or piece of writing is addressed.130
9917773867Balanced sentenceA sentence in which words, phrases, or clauses are set off against each other to emphasize a contrast131
9917773868Begging the questionOften called circular reasoning, __ occurs when the believability of the evidence depends on the believability of the claim.132
9917773769understatement"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
9917773770parallelism"My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." John F. Kennedy134
9917773771allusionThe rise in poverty will unlock the Pandora's box of crimes.135
9917773772hyperbole"I'll love you, dear, I'll love you/Till China and Africa meet,/And the river jumps over the mountain"136
9917773773aphorism"Having nothing, nothing can he lose."137
9917773774metonymy"Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears." Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, Act I138
9917773775invective"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
9917773776antithesis"To err is human; to forgive divine." Alexander Pope "An Essay on Criticism"140
9917773777euphemism"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
9917773778periodic sentenceIn spite of heavy snow and cold temperatures, the game continued.142
9917773779paradox"Whatever you do will be insignificant, but it is very important that you do it." -Gandhi143
9917773780alliteration"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
9917773781chiasmus"he heard the snow falling faintly through the universe and faintly falling"145
9917773782oxymoron"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
9917773783personification"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
9917773784onomatopoeia"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
9917773785inverted syntax"Patience you must have, my young padawan."149
9917773786spatial 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 Language Vocabulary Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
7291302420belabor (v)To explain excessively0
7291302421denote (v)To indicate1
7291302422eschew (v)To avoid2
7291302423taciturn (adj)Always silent3
7291302424credence (n)Acceptance of something as true4
7291302425evince (v)To show clearly5
7291302426Nefarious (adj)Wicked6
7291302427ostensibly (adv)Supposedly7
7291302428Bastion (n)A fortress8
7291302429Jettison (v)To discard9
7328486251emulate (v)to imitate10
7328496914euphemism (n)a substituted word used to decrease the effect of the original11
7328508357gainsay (v)to contradict12
7328518230innate (adj)natural13
7328529865elucidate (v)to clarify14
7328539590onerous (adj)burdensome15
7328549022robust (adj)strong and healthy16
7328562118attenuate (v)reduce the force, effect, or value17
7328570195dolt (n)a stupid person18
7328577886felicity (n)intense happiness19
7372744084nadir (n)The lowest point20
7372744085Pungent (adj)Sharp to the senses21
7372744086ameliorate (v)To make something bad, better22
7373090925abide (v)To act in accordance with23
7373090926nascent (adj)Recently formed24
7373090927abject (adj)Of the lowest kind25
7373090928Placate (v)To pacify26
7373090929Rife (adj)Abundant27
7373090930Adept (adj)Very skilled28
7373090931Surreptitiously (adv)Secretively29
7469248480Eviscerate (v)To gut30
7469248481Copious (adj)Abundant31
7469248482Parsimonious (adj)Stingy32
7469248483propensity (n)A natural tendency33
7469248484garner (v)To gather or collect34
7469248485Foible (n)Minor character flaw35
7469248486sacrosanct (adj)Sacred36
7469248487ignominious (adj)Shameful in the highest extent37
7469248488Portend (v)To indicate in advance38
7469248489Deftly (adv)Skillfully or cleverly39
7518122002Abrogate (v)To officially abolish40
7518122003affable (adj)Friendly41
7518122004charlatan (n)Fraud using skill to deceive42
7518122005irrefragable (adj)Indisputable43
7518122006Vacillate (v)To go back and forth44
7518122007Stellar (adj)Starlike/ excellent45
7518122008circumvent (v)To go around or bypass46
7518122009precipitous (adj)Dangerously steep47
7518122010Sordid (adj)Dirty48
7518122011Incidentally (adv)By the way49
7621909758protract (v)To prolong50
7621909759effervescent (adj.)To be bubbly/ enthusiastic51
7621909760Caveat (n)A stipulation to warn or bring awareness52
7621909761gregarious (adj)Sociable53
7621909762exacerbate (v)To worsen54
7621909763Recalcitrant (adj)Stubborn towards authority55
7621909764vindicate (v)To clear of guilt, blame, or suspicion/ to justify56
7621909765harbinger (n)Something that foreshadows57
7621909766Circumspect (adj)Careful in decision making58
7621909767Untenable (adj)Impossible to defend with logic or evidence59
7696253827embellish (v)To enhance with detail60
7696253828placid (adj)Peaceful61
7696253829Mollify (v)To soothe in disposition62
7696253830Purveyor(n)A person/group that promotes or spreads an idea63
7696253831indelible(adj)Incapable of being erased64
7696253832explicate (v.)To explain65
7696253833Sophomoric (adj)Immature/ juvenile66
7696253834frivolous (adj)Lacking seriousness67
7696253835Assuage (v)To make less painful68
7696253836truncate (v)To shorten by cutting69
7757488588Pensive (adj)Deeply thoughtful70
7757488589Extrapolate (v)To infer based on known fact71
7757488590Ruse (n)An action designed to deceive72
7757488591Germane (adj)Relevant73
7757488592penchant (n)A strong desire (for)74
7757488593Augment (v)To increase75
7757488594ubiquitous (adj)Existing everywhere76
7757488595erudite (adj)Scholarly77
7757488596Assiduously (adv)Diligently78
7757504182Imbue (v)To inspire79
7832799022resonate (v)to echo/ to evoke emotions80
7832799023Pejorative(adj)Belittling81
7832799024cogent (adj)convincing82
7832799025Codify (v)To arrange into a systematic code83
7832799026Decry (v)To publicly denounce84
7832799027Enjoin (v)To command85
7832799028Perfunctory (adj)Done as a matter of routine86
7832799029tantamount (adj) (x is tantamount to y)Equivalent to87
7832799030espouse (v.)to adopt as ones own88
7832799031Cognizant (adj) (x is cognizant of y)Aware89
7903900014Abate (v)To become less intense90
7903900015multifarious (adj)Various91
7903900016odious (adj)Offensive92
7903900017Dissemble(v)To conceal93
7903900018aggrandize (v)to increase (negative)94
7903900019inexorably (adv)Ceaselessly95
7903900020Urbane (adj)refined96
7903900021ascertain (v)To find out for sure97
7903900022deride (v)to ridicule98
7903900023Clandestinly (adv)secretively99
7955957744cogitate (v)to think carefully100
7955957745fallacious (adj)Logically false101
7955957746hubris (n)excessive pride102
7955957747intemperate (adj)lacking self-control103
7955957748embody (v)To personify104
7955957749jocular (adj)playful105
7955957750malign (v)to speak harmfully about106
7955957751malediction (n)an evil curse107
7955957752capitulate (v)to surrender108
7955957753recapitulate (v)to summarize109
8050021797juxtapose (v)To place side by side110
8050021798feckless (adj)Senseless111
8050021799circumlocution (n)Excessive words to avoid112
8050021800verbose (adj)wordy113
8050021801Engender (v)To evoke a feeling114
8050021802pariah (n)a social outcast115
8050021803expunge (v)to erase completely116
8050021804lethargy (n)lack of energy117
8050021805rarefied (adj)Distant from ordinary people118
8050021806mordant (adj)harshly sarcastic119
8183938148obviate (v)To remove a difficulty120
8183938149unequivocal (a.)Leaving no doubt121
8183938150scrutinize (v)to examine closely122
8183938151malodorous (adj)stinky123
8183938152insolence (n)rude behavior124
8183938153formulate (v)To create125
8183938154paragon (n.) (of something)a perfect example126
8183938155largesse (n)Great generosity127
8183938156potentate (n)a ruler128
8183938157misnomer (n)An inaccurate name or designation129
8292616772trenchant (adj)Thoroughly insightful130
8292616773equivocate (v)to deliberately speak ambiguously131
8292616774roustabout (n)unskilled laborer132
8292616775plausible (adj)Seemingly believable133
8292616776inane (adj)Senseless134
8292616777posthumously (adv)Done after death135
8292616778indomitable (adj)impossible to defeat136
8292616779furtive (adj)secretive137
8292616780illicit (adj)illegal138
8292616781Splendiferous (adj)splendid139
8371714128proscribe (v)To forbidden140
8371714129generate (v)to give rise to141
8371714130Disheveled (adj)Untidy142
8371714131countenance (n)facial expression143
8371714132countenance (v)Admit as acceptable144
8371714133prescribe (v)To direct as beneficial145
8371714134tawdry (adj)Showy but cheap146
8371714135virulent (adj)Extremely harmful147
8371714136galvanize (v)To motivate to action148
8371714137prescient (adj)having a sense of future events149
8636876472condone (v)to accept and allow to continue150
8636876473specious (adj)Seemingly true, but not151
8636876474crestfallen (adj)sad and disappointed152
8637071156nonplus (v.) (x can nonplus y)to puzzle153
8637071157Skullduggery (n)Underhanded trickery154
8637071158taxonomy (n)Method of classification155
8637071159remiss (adj) (to be)negligent156
8637071160bellicose (adj)warlike157
8637071161parlance (n)a particular manner of speaking158
8637071162resplendent (adj)dazzling in appearance159
8637071163alleviate (v)To relieve160
8637071164conciliatory (adj)Wanting to reconcile161
8637071165moniker (n)a given title162
8637071166insatiable (adj)incapable of being satisfied163
8637071167delineate (v)To describe precisely164
8637071168indubitable (adj)unquestionable165
8637071169raze (v)To destroy166
8637071170minutiae (n)trivial details167
8637071171carp (v)to complain excessively168
8637071172enigma (n)a mystery169
8788609057glean (v) (from)to gather bit by bit170
8788609058fraught (adj)full of (always negative)171
8788609059diatribe (n)a bitter and prolonged verbal attack172
8788609060frenetic (adj)frantic173
8788609061allay (v)to reduce (fear, concern)174
8788609062nuance (n)a slight difference175
8788609063recant (v)to formally withdraw something spoken176
8788609064benefactor (n)one who sponsors others177
8788609065impeccable (adj)flawless178
8788609066pedantic (adj)Making mountains out of molehills179
8897517429assertion (n)A confident and forceful statement180
8897517430coherent (adj)Logically put together181
8897517431Didactic (adj)Intended to teach182
8897517432exculpate (v)to clear of blame183
8897517433incontrovertible (adj)indisputable184
8897517434listless (adj)lacking energy185
8897517435convoluted (adj)Extremely complex or difficult to follow186
8897517436obscure (adj)Not known well187
8897517437impede (v)to obstruct188
8897517438quandary (n.)a dilemma189
9145571371discourse (n)written or spoken communication190
9145571372Cryptic (adj)Mysterious191
9145571373Indolent (adj)Lazy192
9145571374coup (n)a sudden siege of power from the government193
9145571375Proliferate (v)To spread rapidly in numbers194
9145571376vilify (v)To slander195
9145571377malfeasance (n)wrong doing or bad conduct by a public official196
9145571378timorous (adj)fearful197
9145571379Corroborate (v)To confirm with evidence198
9145571380cajole (v)to persuade by flattery199
9188302669penitent (adj)feeling regret200
9188302670disparity (n)A great difference201
9188302671Tenuous (adj)very weak202
9188302672impinge (v) (on)to negatively affect203
9188302673hegemony (n)dominate leadership204
9188302674schism (n)a division205
9188302675watershed (n.)an event marking a turning point206
9188302676Parochial (adj)narrow or limited207
9188302677Squander (v)to waste recklessly208
9363163500Opulent (adj)Wealthy209
9363163501Imperious (adj)Domineering210
9363163502auspicious (adj)promising success211
9363163503proximity (n.)nearness212
9363163504disparage (v)to belittle213
9363163505prognosticate (v.)to predict214
9363163506confound (v)to confuse215
9363163507parity (n)equality216
9363163508Fatuous (adj)Pointless217
9363163509expiate (v)to make amends218
9827841609castigateto reprimand severely219
9827843482flippantdisrespectful220
9827843483utopiaa place of perfection221
9827847690dystopiaa society of misery222
9827850151innuendosomething hinted at or suggested223
9827880763diurnaloccurring during the day224
9827910297floridextremely decorated225
9827922359reclamationthe act of making something useful again226
9827924685moribundnear death227
9827924686prosaicdull or having the qualities of prose228
9827946549indifferentpreferanceless229
9827946550staidunemotional230
9827948532nocturnaloccurring at night231
9827950070efficacyeffectiveness232
9827955291arbiterone who settles a dispute233
9827957555ostentatiouspretentiously showy234
9827960938denigrateto belittle235
9827960939effaceto wipe out236
9827963783mercurialprone to changes in mood or mind237
9827969914ebullienceexuberance238
9827972024inverteratehabitual239
9827974808ingrateungrateful person240

AP Language Vocab Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
9955511473ad hominemdirected to or appealing to feelings or prejudices instead of to intellect or reason0
9955511474adagesaying or proverb containing a truth based on experience and often couched in metaphorical language ex: there is more than one way to skin a cat1
9955555302allegorystory in which a second meaning is to be read beneath the surface2
9955570616allusionreference to a person, place, or event meant to create an effect or enhance the meaning of an idea3
9955681061ambiguityvagueness of meaning, conscious lack of clarity meant to evoke multiple meanings or interpretations4
9955707473anachronismperson, scene, event, or other element fails to correspond with the appropriate time or era ex: Columbus sailing to the U.S5
9955725731anecdotebrief narrative often used to illustrate an idea or make a point6
9955733444annotationbrief explanation, summary, or evaluation of a tet or work of literature7
9956682092antecedentword to which a pronoun refers8
9956688684antithesisrhetorical opposition of ideas by means of a grammatical arrangement of words, clauses, or sentences ex: they promised freedom but provided slavery. or ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country9
9956727492aphorismshort, concise statement of a generally accepted truth or sentiment10
9956763279apollonianrefers to the most noble, godlike qualities of human nature and behavior11
9956787398archcharacterized by clever or sly humor, saucy, playful, and irreverent12
9956795686archetypeabstract conception of a type; perfectly typical example; original model or form13
9956805875assonancerepetition of two or more vowel sounds in a group of words, like alliteration or consonance but with vowels instead of consonants14
9956818322barda poet or performer who tells heroic stories to a musical accompaniment15
9956827470bathosinsincere or overdone sentimentality16
9956836006bombastinflated, pretentious language17
9956843382burlesqueliterature meant to ridicule a subject; imitation18
9956849277cacophonygrating, inharmonious sounds19
9956854311canonworks of literature most important in a national period; widely read and studied20
9956870615circumlocutiontalking around a subject, avoids direct reference to a subject21
9956882057independent clausesstand on their own as a sentence22
9956887839dependent clausesincomplete sentences that can't stand alone; also called subordinate clauses23
9956900389conceitwitty thought, highly fanciful idea, often in figurative language24
9956910913connotationsuggested or implied meaning of a word25
9956926915cynicone who expects and observes nothing but the worst of human conduct26
9956936862deductive reasoningreasoning with definitions, conclusions, and theorems drawn from general principles27
9956944539denotationdictionary definition of a word28
9956952679denouementresolution that occurs at the end of a narrative or drama29
9956970173didactichaving an instructive purpose; intending to teach a lesson30
9956983770dionysiansensual, pleasure-seeking impulses31
9956990846dramatic ironywhen the audience knows more about the situation than the character32
9956999239elegypoem that mediates on the passing or death of someone or something of value33
9957016782elliptical constructionsentence containing a purposeful omission of words ex: May was hot and June the same.34
9957047528epigramconcise but witty and thoughtful statement35
9957060031epithetexpresses striking quality of a person or thing ex: sun-lit lake or sun-bright topa36
9957074558euphemismless negative usage for a harsh or blunt term37
9957080350euphonypleasing, harminous sounds38
9957082961exegesisdetailed analysis or interpretation of a work of poetry39
9957092792explicationinterpretation or analysis of text40
9957096891exposefactual piece of writing that reveals weaknesses or faults41
9957107393expositionbackground and events that lead to the presentation of a main idea or purpose of an essay42
9957119352farcecomedy that contains an extravagant and nonsensical disregard of seriousness, may have a serious purpose ex: slapstick humor43
9957151774harangueforceful sermon, lecture, or tirade44
9957161774homilylecture on a religious or moral theme meant to guide human behavior45
9957190799hubrisexcessive pride that affects tone46
9957204909idyllpoem or passage that describes ideal life47
9957215069inductive reasoningspecific facts or examples are used to make a generalization48
9957225043invectivedirect verbal assault, casting blame on someone or something49
9957237587kenningname of something is replaced with its functions or qualities ex: ring-giver for king or whale-road for ocean50
9957249239lampoonmocking, satirical assault of a person or situation51

AP Language Literary Terms, AP Language terms Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
9966912901Cumulative (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
9966912902Periodic Sentencea sentence that, by leaving the completion of its main clause to the end, produces an effect of suspense.1
9966912903Litotes/Understatementa figure of speech in which a negative statement is used to affirm a positive statement.2
9966912904Warrantexpresses the assumption necessarily shared by the speaker and the audience.3
9966912905Ethosan appeal to ethics and it is a means of convincing someone of the character or credibility of the persuader.4
9966912906Pathosan appeal to emotion, and is a way of convincing an audience of an argument by creating an emotional response.5
9966912907Logosan appeal to logic, and is a way of persuading an audience by reason.6
9966912908Concessionan acknowledgement that an opposing argument may be true or reasonable.7
9966912909SyllogismA logical structure that uses the major premise and minor premise to reach a necessary conclusion.8
9966912910Major premisecontains the term that is the predicate of the conclusion.9
9966912911Minor premisecontains the term that is the subject of the conclusion.10
9966912912Inductiona 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
9966912913Deductiona logical process wherein you reach a conclusion by starting with a general principle or universal truth (a major premise).12
9966912914Equivocationa fallacy of argument in which a lie is given the appearance of truth, or in which the truth is misrepresented in deceptive language.13
9966912915Refutationa denial of the validity of an opposing argument.14
9966912916Dictiona speaker's choice of words. Analysis of diction looks at these choices and what they add to the speaker's message.15
9966912917Similea 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
9966912918Metaphorfigure of speech that compares two unlike things without using like or as.17
9966912919Anaphorathe intentional repetition of beginning clauses in order to create an artistic effect.18
9966912920Rhetoricit is the art of finding ways of persuading an audience.19
9966912921Rhetorical Trianglespeaker-subject-audience20
9966912922Allusionbrief reference to a person, event, or place (real or fictitious) to to a work of art.21
9966912923Hyperboledeliberate exaggeration used for emphasis or to produce a comic or ironic effect; an overstatement to make a point.22
9966912924Personificationattribution of a lifelike quality to an inanimate object or an idea.23
9966912925Asyndetonomission of conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses, or words.24
9966912926Polysyndetonthe deliberate use of multiple conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses or words.25
9966912927Parallelismsimilarity of structure in a pair or series of related words, phrases, or clauses.26
9966912928Antithesisopposition, or contrast or ideas or words in a parallel construction.27
9966912929Enumerationto mention separately as if in counting; name one by one; specify, as in list28
9966912930Rhetorical 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
9966912931Chiasmusthe reversal in the order of words in two otherwise parallel phrases. Ex.) He went to the country, the country went to him.30
9966912932RebuttalIn the Toulon model, a rebuttal gives voice to possible objections.31
9966912933Fallacy of Argumenta flaw in the structure of an argument that renders its conclusion invalid or suspect.32
9966912934Bandwagon Appeala fallacy of argument in which a course of action is recommended on the grounds that everyone else is following it.33
9966912935Begging the Questiona fallacy of argument in which a claim is based on the very grounds that are in doubt or dispute.34
9966912936Anecdotea brief story used to illustrate a point or claim.35
9966912937Modes 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
9966912938Examplea specific event, person, or detail of an idea cited and/or developed to support or illustrate a thesis or topic.37
9966912939Contrast/ 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
9966912940Cause and Effectestablishes a relationship: B is the result of A.39
9966912941Classificationseparates items into major categories and details the characteristics of each group is placed within the category.40
9966912942Processsimply "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
9966912943Definitionidentifies the class to which a specific term belongs and those characteristics which make it different from all the other items in that class.42
9966912944Narrationis nothing more than storytelling. There is a beginning, a middle, and an end.43
9966912945Descriptionwriting 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
9966912946Dogmatism`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
9966912947False 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
9966912948False authoritya fallacy of argument in which a claim is based on the expertise of someone who lacks appropriate credentials.47
9966912949Faulty 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
9966912950Hasty generalizationa fallacy of argument in which an inference is drawn from insufficient data.49
9966912951Non sequitora fallacy of argument in which claims, reasons, or warrants fail to connect logically; one point doesn't follow from another.50
9966912970AllegoryThe 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
9966912971AlliterationThe repetition of sounds, especially initial consonant sounds in two or more neighboring words (as in "she sells sea shells").52
9966912972AllusionA direct or indirect reference to something which is presumably commonly known, such as an event, book, myth, place, or work of art.53
9966912973AmbiguityThe multiple meanings, either intentional or unintentional, of a word, phrase, sentence, or passage.54
9966912974AnalogyA similarity or comparison between two different things or the relationship between them.55
9966912975AntecedentThe word, phrase, or clause referred to by a pronoun.56
9966912976Antithesisthe opposition or contrast of ideas; the direct opposite.57
9966912977AphorismA 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
9966912978ApostropheA 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
9966912979AtmosphereThe 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
9966912980Caricaturea verbal description, the purpose of which is to exaggerate or distort, for comic effect, a person's distinctive physical features or other characteristics.61
9966912981ClauseA grammatical unit that contains both a subject and a verb.62
9966912982Colloquial/ColloquialismThe use of slang or informalities in speech or writing.63
9966912983Literary 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
9966912984ConnotationThe non-literal, associative meaning of a word; the implied, suggested meaning.65
9966912985DenotationThe strict, literal, dictionary definition of a word, devoid of any emotion, attitude, or color.66
9966912986DictionRelated to style, diction refers to the writer's word choices, especially with regard to their correctness, clearness, or effectiveness.67
9966912987DidacticFrom the Greek, didactic literally means "teaching."68
9966912988EuphemismFrom the Greek for "good speech," euphemisms are a more agreeable or less offensive substitute for a generally unpleasant word or concept - POLITICALLY CORRECT69
9966912989Extended MetaphorA metaphor developed at great length, occurring frequently in or throughout a work.70
9966912990Figurative LanguageWriting or speech that is not intended to carry literal meaning and is usually meant to be imaginative and vivid71
9966912991Figure 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
9966912992GenreThe major category into which a literary work fits. The basic divisions of literature are prose, poetry, and drama.73
9966912993HomilyThis term literally means "sermon," but more informally, it can include any serious talk, speech, or lecture involving moral or spiritual advice.74
9966912994HyperboleA figure of speech using deliberate exaggeration or overstatement. (The literal Greek meaning is "overshoot.")75
9966912995ImageryThe sensory details or figurative language used to describe, arouse emotion, or represent abstractions.76
9966912996Inference/inferTo draw a reasonable conclusion from the information presented.77
9966912997Invectivean emotionally violent, verbal denunciation or attack using strong, abusive language.78
9966912998Irony/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
9966912999Loose 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
9966913000MetaphorA figure of speech using implied comparison of seemingly unlike things or the substitution of one for the other, suggesting some similarity.81
9966913001MetonymyA figure of speech in which the name of one object is substituted for that of another closely associated with it.82
9966913002MoodThe prevailing atmosphere or emotional aura of a work.83
9966913003NarrativeThe telling of a story or an account of an event or series of events.84
9966913004onomatopoeiaA figure of speech in which natural sounds are imitated in the sounds of words.85
9966913005OxymoronOxymoron is a figure of speech wherein the author groups apparently contradictory terms to suggest a paradox.86
9966913006ParadoxA statement that appears to be self-contradictory or opposed to common sense but upon closer inspection contains some degree of truth or validity.87
9966913007Parallelismthe use of successive verbal constructions in poetry or prose that correspond in grammatical structure, sound, meter, meaning, etc.88
9966913008ParodyA work that closely imitates the style or content of another with the specific aim of comic effect and/or ridicule.89
9966913009PedanticAn 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
9966913010Periodic sentenceThe opposite of loose sentence, a sentence that presents its central meaning in a main clause at the end.91
9966913011PersonificationA figure of speech in which the author presents or describes concepts, animals, or inanimate objects by endowing them with human attributes or emotions.92
9966913012Point of viewIn literature, the perspective from which a story is told.93
9966913013Prosewritten or spoken language in its ordinary form, without metrical structure.94
9966913014RepetitionThe duplication, either exact or approximate, of any element of language, such as a sound, word, phrase, clause, sentence, or grammatical pattern.95
9966913015RhetoricFrom the Greek for "orator," this term describes the principles governing the art of writing effectively, eloquently, and persuasively.96
9966913016SarcasmInvolves bitter, caustic language that is meant to hurt or ridicule someone or something.97
9966913017SatireA work that targets human vices and follies or social institutions and conventions for reform or ridicule.98
9966913018Subordinate 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
9966913019SyllogismA 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
9966913020Symbol/symbolismGenerally, anything that represents itself and stands for something else.101
9966913021SyntaxThe way an author chooses to join words into phrases, clauses, and sentences.102
9966913022ThemeThe central idea or message of a work, the insight it offers into life.103
9966913023ThesisThe sentence or group of sentences that directly expresses the author's opinion, purpose, meaning, or position.104
9966913024ToneDescribes the author's attitude toward his material, the audience, or both.105
9966913025TransitionA 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
9966913026Understatementthe ironic minimalizing of fact; presents something as less significant than it is.107
9966913027Witin modern usage, intellectually amusing language that surprises and delights.108
9966913028Slippery SlopeThis is the failure to provide evidence to support a claim that one event will lead to a catastrophic chain of events.109
9966913029straw manWhen a writer argues against a claim that nobody actually holds or is universally considered weak.110
9966913030EthosAn 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
9966913031JuxtapositionMaking on idea more dramatic by placing it next to its opposite.112
9966913032LogosAn appeal to reason.113
9966913033PathosAn appeal to emotion.114
9966913034Rhetorical QuestionA question whose answer is assumed.115
9966913035SimileA 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
9966913036rhetorical 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
9966913037descriptive detailWhen an essay uses this phrase, look for the writer's sensory description.118
9966913038devicesThe figures of speech, syntax, diction, and other stylistic elements that collectively produce a particular artistic effect.119
9966913039narrative 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
9966913040narrative 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
9966913041Ad hominem argumentAn argument attacking an individual's character rather than his or her position on an issue122
9966913042AnaphoraFigure 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
9966913043AnecdoteA brief story that illustrates or makes a point124
9966913044Appeal 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
9966913045Argumentationone 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
9966913046AssonanceRepetition of a vowel sound within two or more words in close proximity127
9966913047AsyndetonA series of words separated by commas (with no conjunction).128
9966913048toneA speaker's, author's, or character's disposition toward or opinion of a subject.129
9966913049audienceOne's listener or readership; those to whom a speech or piece of writing is addressed.130
9966913050Balanced sentenceA sentence in which words, phrases, or clauses are set off against each other to emphasize a contrast131
9966913051Begging the questionOften called circular reasoning, __ occurs when the believability of the evidence depends on the believability of the claim.132
9966912952understatement"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
9966912953parallelism"My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." John F. Kennedy134
9966912954allusionThe rise in poverty will unlock the Pandora's box of crimes.135
9966912955hyperbole"I'll love you, dear, I'll love you/Till China and Africa meet,/And the river jumps over the mountain"136
9966912956aphorism"Having nothing, nothing can he lose."137
9966912957metonymy"Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears." Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, Act I138
9966912958invective"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
9966912959antithesis"To err is human; to forgive divine." Alexander Pope "An Essay on Criticism"140
9966912960euphemism"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
9966912961periodic sentenceIn spite of heavy snow and cold temperatures, the game continued.142
9966912962paradox"Whatever you do will be insignificant, but it is very important that you do it." -Gandhi143
9966912963alliteration"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
9966912964chiasmus"he heard the snow falling faintly through the universe and faintly falling"145
9966912965oxymoron"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
9966912966personification"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
9966912967onomatopoeia"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
9966912968inverted syntax"Patience you must have, my young padawan."149
9966912969spatial description"In my pantry, coffee, tea powder, and sugar have been kept in the top shelf. Flour, canned food, and dry pasta are on the second shelf."150

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