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Vocabulary AP Language Flashcards

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9322291457Antithesisdirect opposite of/to0
9322291458Refuteprove to be false or incorrect1
9322291459InsoucianceNoun casual lack of concern; indifference, nonchalant2
9322291460obfuscateto confuse; to bewilder3
9322291461PetulantChildish sulky or bad tempered person or manner4
9322291462contempt (n)Feeling that a person/thing is beneath consideration; worthless, or deserving scorn5
9322291463tenuoushaving little substance or strength6
9322291464futile (adj)incapable of producing any result; ineffective; useless; not successful7
9322291465repudiate(v.) to disown, reject, or deny the validity of8
9322291466raucous (adj)disagreeably harsh or strident; boisterously disorderly9
9322291467InquitousUnjust or morally wrong10
9322291468MalevolentHaving or showing a wish to do evil to others11
9322291469vacuouslacking ideas or intelligence12
9322291470subterfugean excuse or trick for escaping or hiding something13
9322291471ScornFeeling or belief that someone or something is worthless; contempt14

AP Language and Composition: The Language of Composition General Terms Flashcards

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9891778453rhetorical appealsRhetorical techniques used to persuade an audience by emphasizing what they find most important or compelling. The three major appeals are the ethos (character), logos (reason), and pathos (emotion).0
9891778454ethosGreek for "character." Speakers appeal to ethos to demonstrate that they are credible and trustworthy to speak on a given topic. Ethos is established by both who you are and what you say.1
9891778455counterargumentAn opposing argument to the one a writer is putting forward. Rather than ignoring a counterargument, a strong writer will usually address it through the process of concession and refutation.2
9891778456concession (concede)An acknowledgement that an opposing argument may be true or reasonable. In a strong argument, a concession is usually accompanied by a refutation challenging the validity of the opposing argument.3
9891778457refutation (refute)A denial of the validity of an opposing argument. In order to sound reasonable, refutations often follow a concession that acknowledges that an opposing argument may be true or reasonable.4
9891778458logosGreek for "embodied thought." Speakers appeal to logos or reason, by offering clear, rational ideas and using specific details, examples, facts, statistics, or expert testimony to back them up.5
9891778459connotationMeanings or associations that readers have with a word beyond its dictionary definition, or denotation. Words carry cultural and emotional associations or meanings in addition to their literal meanings or denotations. Connotations are usually positive or negative, and they can greatly affect the author's tone.6
9891778460pathosGreek for "suffering" or "experience." Speakers appeal to pathos to emotionally motivate their audience. More specific appeals to pathos might play on the audience's values, desires, and hopes, on the one hand, or fears and prejudices, on the other.7
9891778461Rhetorical TriangleA diagram that illustrates the interrelationship among the speaker, audience, and the subject in determining a text.8
9891778462audienceThe listener, viewer, or reader of a text. Most texts are likely to have multiple audiences9
9891778463contextThe circumstances, atmosphere, attitudes, and events surrounding a text.10
9891778464occasionThe time and place a speech is given or a piece is written.11
9891778465personaGreek for "mask." The face or character that a speaker shows to his or her audience.12
9891778466polemicGreek for "hostile." An aggressive argument that tries to establish the superiority of one opinion over all others. Polemics generally do not concede that opposing opinions have any merit.13
9891778467propagandaThe spread of ideas and information to further a cause. In its negative sense, propaganda is the use of rumors, lies, disinformation, and scare tactics in order to damage or promote a cause.14
9891778468purposeThe goal the speaker wants to achieve.15
9891778469rhetoricAs Aristotle defined the term, "The faculty of observing in any given case the available means of persuasion." In other words, it is the art of finding ways to persuade an audience.16
9891778470SOAPSToneA mnemonic device that stands for Subject, Occasion, Audience, Purpose, Speaker, and Tone. It is a handy way to remember the various elements that make up the rhetorical situation.17
9891778471speakerThe person or group who creates a text. This might be a politician who delivers a speech, a commentator who writes an article, an artist who draws a political cartoon, or even a company that commissions an advertisement.18
9891778472subjectThe topic of a text; what the text is about.19
9891778473textWhile this terms generally means the written word, in the humanities it has come to mean any cultural product that can be "read"-meaning not just consumed and comprehended, but investigated. This includes fiction, nonfiction, poetry, political cartoons, fine art, photography, performances, fashion, cultural trends, and much more.20
9891778474dictionThe speaker's choice of words. Writers choose words to create and convey a typical mood, tone and atmosphere to their readers. Diction or choice of words separates good writing from bad writing. It depends on a number of factors. Firstly, the word has to be right and accurate. Secondly, words should be appropriate to the context in which they are used. Lastly, the choice of words should be such that the listener or readers understand easily. Besides, proper diction or proper choice of words is important to get the message across. On the contrary, the wrong choice of words can easily divert listeners or readers which results in misinterpretation of the message intended to be conveyed.21
9891778475syntaxHow the words are arranged22
9891778476toneThe speaker's attitude toward's the subject as revealed by his or her choice of language23
9891778477moodHow the work makes the reader feel.24
9891778478metaphorFigure of speech that compares two things without using like or as; says one thing IS another.25
9891778479similesFigure of speech that compares two things using like or as.26
9891778480personificationAttribution of a human quality to an inanimate object or idea.27
9891778481hyperboleExaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken seriously28
9891778482parallelismSimilarity of structure in a pair or series of related words, phrases, or clauses.29
9891778483juxtapositionTwo or more ideas, places, characters, and their actions are placed side by side in a narrative or a poem, for the purpose of developing comparisons and contrasts. ie: Paradise lost30
9891778484antithesisOpposition, or contrast, of ideas or words in a parallel construction.31
9891778485compound sentenceA sentence with more than one subject or predicate32
9891778486complex sentenceA sentence containing a subordinate clause or clauses33
9891778487periodic sentenceSentence whose main clause is withheld until the end.34
9891778488cumulative sentenceSentence that completes the main idea at the beginning of the sentence and then builds and adds on.35
9891778489imperative sentenceSentence used to command or enjoin.36
9891778490pacingHow fast a story unfolds. Does the author reveal details quickly or slowly? How does he or she build suspense?37
9891778491figures of speechA word or phrase used in a nonliteral sense to add rhetorical force to a spoken or written passage38
9891778492zeugmaUse of two different words in a grammatically similar way that produces different, often incongruous meanings.39
9891778493satireThe use of irony or sarcasm to criticize40
9891778494hortative sentenceSentence that exhorts, urges, entreats, implores, or calls to action.41
9891778495allusionBrief reference to a person, event, or place (real or fictitious) or to a work of art.42
9891778496archaic dictionOld-fashioned or outdated choice of words. You can use archaic language for many purposes, such as to sound more official, authoritative, or magical. Think Shakespeare, the Bible, classic literature, etc.43
9891778497asyndetonOmission of conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses, or words.44
9891778498inversionInverted order of words in a sentence (variation of the subject-verb-object order). Hyperbaton refers to any departure from normal word order (sometimes called inverted word order). The unexpected arrangement of words calls sharp attention to the word(s) that are out of their expected place, thus emphasizing them. Displacing words to the end or beginning of a sentence (areas ofgreatest emphasis) further stresses them. Think Yoda.... Examples: Disturb me not! Books they have demanded and books they will get. Normal word order: You should attend first those who need medicine. Inverted word order: Those who need medicine you should attend first. Normal word order: After all the pressure against it, the law prevailed. Hyperbatonic word order: The law, after all the pressure against it, prevailed.45
9891778499oxymoronParadoxical juxtaposition of words that seem to contradict one another. The common oxymoron phrase is a combination of an adjective proceeded by a noun with contrasting meanings, such as "cruel kindness," or "living death". It is important to understand the difference between an oxymoron and a paradox. A paradox may consist of a sentence, or even a group of sentences. An oxymoron, on the other hand, is a combination of two contradictory or opposite words. A paradox seems contradictory to the general truth, but it does contain an implied truth. An oxymoron, however, may produce a dramatic effect, but does not make literal sense.46
9891778500rhetorical questionFigure of speech in form of a question posed for the rhetorical effect rather than for the purpose of getting an answer.47
9891778501synecdocheFigure of speech that uses a part to represent a whole. May also use larger groups to refer to smaller groups, or vice versa. It may also call a thing by the name of the material it is made of, or it may refer to a thing in a container or packaging by the name of that container or packing. Example: The word "bread" refers to food or money, as in "Writing is my bread and butter," or "He is the sole breadwinner." The phrase "gray beard" refers to an old man. The word "sails" refers to a whole ship. The word "suit" refers to a businessman. The word "boots" usually refers to soldiers. The term "coke" is a common synecdoche for all carbonated drinks. "wheels" and "ride" are synecdoches for car The word "glasses" refers to spectacles.48
9891778502imageryWhen a writer describes something using language that appeals to our five senses (sight, smell, taste, touch, hearing)49
9891778503argumentA process of reasoned inquiry; a persuasive discourse resulting in a coherent and considered movement from claim to conclusion.50
9891778504Rogerian ArgumentsDeveloped by psychiatrist Carl Rogers, Rogerian arguments are based on the assumption that having a understanding of an opposing position is essential to responding to it persuasively and refuting it in a way that is accommodating rather than alienating.51
9891778505claimAlso called an assertion or a proposition, a claim states the argument's main idea or position. A claim differs from a topic or subject in that a claim has to be arguable.52
9891778506claim of factA claim of fact asserts that something is true or not true.53
9891778507claim of valueA claim of value argues that something is good or bad, right or wrong.54
9891778508claim of policyA claim of policy proposes a change.55
9891778509closed thesisA closed thesis is a statement of the main idea of the argument that also previews the major points the writer intends to make.56
9891778510open thesisAn open thesis statement is one that does not list all the points the writer intends to cover in an essay.57
9891778511counterargument thesisa summary of the counterargument, usually qualified by although or but, precedes the writer's opinion58
9891778512logical fallacy (fallacy)Logical fallacies are potential vulnerabilities or weaknesses in an argument. They often arise from a failure to make a logical connection between the claim and the evidence used to support it.59
9891778513red herringWhen a speaker skips to a new and irrelevant topic in order to avoid the topic of discussion60
9891778514ad hominemLatin for "to the man," this fallacy refers to the specific diversionary tactic of switching the argument from the issue at hand to the character of the other speaker. If you argue that a park in your community should not be renovated because the person supporting it was arrested during a domestic dispute, then you are guilty of ad hominem.61
9891778515faulty analogyA fallacy that occurs when an analogy compares two things that are not comparable. For instance, to argue that because we put animals who are in irreversible pain out of their misery, we should do the same for people, asks the reader to ignore significant and profound differences between animals and people.62
9891778516straw manA fallacy that occurs when a speaker chooses a deliberately poor or oversimplified example in order to ridicule and refute an idea.63
9891778517either/or (false dilemma)A fallacy in which the speaker presents two extreme options as the only possible choices.64
9891778518hasty generalizationA fallacy in which conclusion is reached because of inadequate evidence.65
9891778519circular reasoningA fallacy in which the writer repeats the claim as a way to provide evidence.66
9891778520first-hand evidenceEvidence based on something that the writer knows, whether it's from personal experience, observations, or general knowledge of events.67
9891778521second-hand evidenceEvidence that is accessed through research, reading, and investigation. It includes factual and historical information, expert opinion, and quantitative data.68
9891778522post hoc ergo propter hocThis fallacy is Latin for "after which therefore because of which," meaning that it is incorrect to always claim that something is a clause just because it happened earlier. One may loosely summarize this fallacy by saying that correlation does not simply imply causation.69
9891778523appeal to false authorityThis fallacy occurs when someone who has no expertise to speak on a issue is cited as an authority. A TV star, for instance, is not a medical expert, even though pharmaceutical advertisements often use celebrity endorsements.70
9891778524quantitative evidenceQuantitative evidence includes things that can be measured, cited, counted, or otherwise represented in numbers-for instance, statistics, surveys, polls, census information.71
9891778525ad populum (bandwagon appeal)This fallacy occurs when evidence boils down to "everybody's doing it, so it must be a good thing to do."72
9891778526introduction (exordium)Introduces the reader to the subject under discussion.73
9891778527narration (narratio)Provides factual information and background material on the subject at hand or establishes why the subject is a problem that needs addressing.74
9891778528confirmation (confirmatio)Usually the major part of the text, the confirmation includes the proof needed to make the writer's case.75
9891778529refutation (refutatio)Addresses the counterargument. It is a bridge between the writer's proof and conclusion.76
9891778530conclusion (peroratio)Brings the essay to a satisfying close.77
9891778531syllogismA logical structure that uses the major premise and minor premise to reach a necessary conclusion.78
9891778532inductionFrom the Latin inducere, "to lead into"; a logical process whereby the writer reasons from particulars to universals, using specific cases in order to draw a conclusion, which is also called generalization.79
9891778533deductionDeduction is a logical process whereby one reaches a conclusion by starting with a general principal or universal truth (a major premise). The process of deduction usually demonstrated in the form of a syllogism.80
9891778534Toulmin modelAn approach to analyzing and constructing arguments created by British philosopher Stephen Toulmin in his book The Uses of Argument (1985). The Toulmin model can be stated as a template: Because (evidence as support), therefore (claim), since (warrant or assumption), on account of (backing), unless (reservation).81
9891778535warrantIn the Toulmin model, the warrant expresses the assumption necessarily shared by the speaker and the audience.82
9891778536assumptionIn the Toulmin model, the warrant expresses the assumption necessarily shared by the speaker and the audience.83
9891778537backingIn the Toulmin model, backing consists of further assurances or data without which the assumption lacks authority.84
9891778538qualifierIn the Toulmin model, the qualifier uses words like usually, probably, maybe, in most cases, and most likely to temper the claim, making it less absolute.85
9891778539reservationIn the Toulmin model, a reservation explains the terms and conditions necessitated by the qualifier.86
9891778540rebuttalIn the Toulmin model, a rebuttal gives voice to possible objections.87
9891778541begging the questionA fallacy in which a claim is based on evidence or support that is in doubt. It "begs" a question whether the support itself is sound.88
9891778542the classical orationFive-part argument structure used by classical rhetoricians. The five parts are: -introduction (exordium) -narration (narratio) -confirmation (confirmatio) -refutation (refutatio) -conclusion (peroratio)89
9891778543syndetona sentence style in which words, phrases, or clauses are joined by conjunctions (usually and).90
9891778544qualitative evidenceDescriptive information, which often comes from interviews, focus groups or artistic depictions such as photographs.91
9891778545bias1. a prejudiced view (either for or against); a preference. 2. a partiality that prevents objective consideration of an issue or situation92
9891778546Validity (or logically valid)the fact that the truth of the premises logically guarantees the truth of the conclusion. Whenever the premises are true, the conclusion must be true.93
9891778547scare tacticsusing fear to sway people by exaggerating possible dangers well beyond their statistical likelihood94
9891778548slippery slopeSuggest dire consequences from relatively minor causes95
9891778549dogmatismshuts down discussion by asserting that the writer's beliefs are the only acceptable ones96
9891778550equivocationthe use of ambiguous language to conceal the truth or to avoid committing oneself; it is a half truth97
9891778551non sequitura statement that does not follow logically from evidence98
9891778552undistributed middleis a formal fallacy that is committed when the middle term in a categorical syllogism is not distributed in either the minor premise or the major premise. Pattern: All Z is B All Y is B Therefore, all Y is Z B is the common term between the two premises (the middle term) but is never distributed, so this syllogism is invalid. eg: All students carry backpacks. My grandfather carries a backpack. Therefore, my grandfather is a student.99
9891778553isocolona rhetorical device that involves a succession of sentences, phrases, and clauses of grammatically equal length. In this figure of speech, a sentence has a parallel structure that is made up of words, clauses, or phrases of equal length, sound, meter, and rhythm. Isocolon is the repetition of similar grammatical forms.100
9891778554chiasmusa rhetorical device in which two or more clauses are balanced against each other by the reversal of their structures in order to produce an artistic effect.101
9891778555antimetabolea literary term or device that involves repeating a phrase in reverse order. For example: "You like it; it likes you." "Fair is foul and foul is fair."102
9891778556anaphoraRepetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive phrases, clauses, or lines. This device produces a strong emotional effect, especially in speech. It also establishes a marked change in rhythm. a. "We shall not flag or fail. We shall go on to the end. We shall fight in France, we shall fight on the seas and oceans, we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air, we shall defend our island . . . we shall never surrender." (Winston Churchill, 1940) b. "Why should white people be running all the stores in our community? Why should white people be running the banks of our community? Why should the economy of our community be in the hands of the white man? Why?" (Malcolm X) c. "Yesterday, the Japanese government also launched an attack against Malaya. Last night, Japanese forces attacked Hong Kong. Last night, Japanese forces attacked Guam. Last night, Japanese forces attacked the Philippine Islands. Last night, the Japanese attacked Wake Island. And this morning, the Japanese attacked Midway Island." (Franklin Roosevelt, Pearl Harbor Address)103
9891778557epistropherepetition of the same word or group of words at the ends of successive phrases. Like anaphora, epistrophe produces a strong rhythm and emphasis. a. "But to all of those who would be tempted by weakness, let us leave no doubt that we will be as strong as we need to be for as long as we need to be." (Richard Nixon, First Inaugural Address) b. "...and that government of the people, by the people, for the people shall not perish from the earth." (Abraham Lincoln, Gettysburg Address) c. "As long as the white man sent you to Korea, you bled. He sent you to Germany, you bled. He sent you to the South Pacific to fight the Japanese, you bled." (Speech by Malcolm X) d. "In a cake, nothing tastes like real butter, nothing moistens like real butter, nothing enriches like real butter, nothing satisfies like real butter." (Caption from a Pillsbury ad)104
9891778558epanalepsis(eh-puh-nuh-LEAP-siss) — repetition of the same word or words at both beginning and ending of a phrase, clause, or sentence. Like other schemes of repetition, epanalepsis often produces or expresses strong emotion. a. Blood hath bought blood, and blows have answer'd blows:/ Strength match'd with strength, and power confronted power. (William Shakespeare, King John) b. "Nothing is worse than doing nothing." c. "A minimum wage that is not a livable wage can never be a minimum wage." (Ralph Nader)105
9891778559anadiplosis(an-uh-dih-PLO-sis) — repetition of the last word of one clause at the beginning of the following clause. a. "The crime was common, common be the pain". (Alexander Pope, "Eloise to Abelard" b. "Aboard my ship, excellent performance is standard. Standard performance is sub-standard. Sub-standard performance is not permitted to exist." (Captain Queeg, Herman Wouk's The Caine Mutiny) c. "Somehow, with the benefit of little formal education, my grandparents recognized the inexorable downward spiral of conduct outside the guardrails: If you lie, you will cheat; if you cheat, you will steal; if you steal, you will kill." (Justice Clarence Thomas, 1993 Mercer Law School Address) d. "They call for you: The general who became a slave; the slave who became a gladiator; the gladiator who defied an Emperor. Striking story." (line delivered by Joaquin Phoenix, from the movie Gladiator)106
9891778560polyptoton(po-lyp-TO-ton) — repetition of words derived from the same root. a. "But in this desert country they may see the land being rendered useless by overuse." (Joseph Wood Krutch, The Voice of the Desert) b. "We would like to contain the uncontainable future in a glass." (Loren Eiseley, from an article in Harper's, March 1964) c. "With eager feeding food doth choke the feeder." (Shakespeare's Richard II 2.1.37) d. "Let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself." (Franklin Roosevelt, First Inaugural Address, March 1933)107
9891778561alliterationrepetition in which a number of words, having the same first consonant sound, occur close together in a series. Alliteration does not depend on letters but on sounds. So the phrase not knotty is alliterative, but cigarette chase is not. a. "The fair breeze blew, the white foam flew, The furrow followed free" Samuel Taylor Coolridge b. "It was the meanest moment of eternity". (Zora Neale Hurston, Their Eyes Were Watching God) c. "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." (James Joyce,The Dead) d. Names, logos, and ads are often alliterative because it helps you remember: Dunkin' Donuts PayPal; Best Buy;Coca-Cola; Lois Lane; Sammy Sosa; Ronald Reagan; Porky Pig; etc.108
9891778562assonancethe repetition of similar vowel sounds, preceded and followed by different consonants, in the stressed syllables of adjacent words. a. "Whales in the wake like capes and Alps/ Quaked the sick sea and snouted deep." (Dylan Thomas, "Ballad of the Long Legged Bait") b. "Refresh your zest for living." (advertisement for French Line Ships) c. "Strips of tinfoil winking like people." (Sylvia Plath) d. "The gloves didn't fit. If it doesn't fit, you must acquit." (Johnny Cochran, O.J.Simpson trial)109
9891778563consonanceThe use of a series of consonants in quick succession - used more in poetry than in prose. a. "The pitter patter of perpetual precipitation put me in a petulant mood". While there is alliteration in this sentence with the letter p being repeated in the beginning of words, the repeated p and t are consonant. b. "Rap rejects my tape deck, ejects projectile Whether Jew or gentile, I rank top percentile Many styles, more powerful than gamma rays My grammar pays, like Carlos Santana plays."110
9891778564homoioptotonThe repetition of similar case endings in adjacent words or in words in parallel position. We commonly refer to this simply as "rhyme."111
9891778565ellipsisEllipsis is the omission of a word or series of words. There are two slightly different definitions of ellipsis which are pertinent to literature. The first definition of ellipsis is the commonly used series of three dots, which can be place at the beginning, in the middle, or at the end of a sentence or clause. But more importantly, for AP purposes, the second is: a linguistically appropriate omission of words that are mutually understood and thus unnecessary. This type of ellipsis is usually used where the words omitted would be redundant. example: Gapping: I ordered the linguine, and he [ordered] the lobster. Stripping: I ordered the linguine, [I did] not [order] lobster. Verb phrase ellipsis: I'll order the linguine and you can [order the linguine], too. Answer ellipsis: Who ordered the linguine? I did [order the linguine]. Sluicing: I'll get something to drink, but I'm not sure what [I'll get to drink]. Nominal ellipsis: I ordered two drinks, and Bill [ordered] one.112
9891778566metonymya type of metaphor where the substitution of the name of an attribute for that of the thing meant. Examples: The pen is mightier than the sword. -Edward Bulwer-Lytton This land belongs to the crown. Flight simulators are valuable because you can die in software and still be around to fly another day. You cannot fight city hall. The orders came directly from the White House. After four years of reading and writing, I got my bachelor's degree and left college. After four years of filling in the bubbles on machine-scored answer sheets, I got my bachelor's degree and left college.113
9891778567parenthesisa stylistic device that comes from the Greek word meaning "to place," or "alongside." Parenthesis is a qualifying or explanatory sentence, clause, or word that writers insert into a paragraph or passage. However, if they leave it out, even then it does not grammatically affect the text, which is correct without it. Parenthesis makes the statements more convincing, as it puts the readers in a right form from the very beginning where they read it as an explanation. However, its main function is to give more explanation and add emphasis, while its repeated use can cause focus and thus makes parenthetical insertions a dominant feature of a sentence. Parenthesis also offers readers an insight into true feelings and opinions of characters and narrators, while they might tend to evade parenthetical information as unimportant. Doing this, parenthesis could leave them clueless to the actual purpose of a sentence. In addition, it often creates humorous effect by using hyperbole and understatements.114
9891778568paradoxan apparently contradictory statement that actually contains some truth. examples: Less is more You can save money by spending it. I know one thing; that I know nothing. This is the beginning of the end. Deep down, you're really shallow. I'm a compulsive liar. "Men work together whether they work together or apart." - Robert Frost "What a pity that youth must be wasted on the young." - George Bernard Shaw "I can resist anything but temptation." - Oscar Wilde Here are the rules: Ignore all rules. The second sentence is false. The first sentence is true.115

AP Language and Composition: The Language of Composition General Terms Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
9917840294rhetorical appealsRhetorical techniques used to persuade an audience by emphasizing what they find most important or compelling. The three major appeals are the ethos (character), logos (reason), and pathos (emotion).0
9917840295ethosGreek for "character." Speakers appeal to ethos to demonstrate that they are credible and trustworthy to speak on a given topic. Ethos is established by both who you are and what you say.1
9917840296counterargumentAn opposing argument to the one a writer is putting forward. Rather than ignoring a counterargument, a strong writer will usually address it through the process of concession and refutation.2
9917840297concession (concede)An acknowledgement that an opposing argument may be true or reasonable. In a strong argument, a concession is usually accompanied by a refutation challenging the validity of the opposing argument.3
9917840298refutation (refute)A denial of the validity of an opposing argument. In order to sound reasonable, refutations often follow a concession that acknowledges that an opposing argument may be true or reasonable.4
9917840299logosGreek for "embodied thought." Speakers appeal to logos or reason, by offering clear, rational ideas and using specific details, examples, facts, statistics, or expert testimony to back them up.5
9917840300connotationMeanings or associations that readers have with a word beyond its dictionary definition, or denotation. Words carry cultural and emotional associations or meanings in addition to their literal meanings or denotations. Connotations are usually positive or negative, and they can greatly affect the author's tone.6
9917840301pathosGreek for "suffering" or "experience." Speakers appeal to pathos to emotionally motivate their audience. More specific appeals to pathos might play on the audience's values, desires, and hopes, on the one hand, or fears and prejudices, on the other.7
9917840302Rhetorical TriangleA diagram that illustrates the interrelationship among the speaker, audience, and the subject in determining a text.8
9917840303audienceThe listener, viewer, or reader of a text. Most texts are likely to have multiple audiences9
9917840304contextThe circumstances, atmosphere, attitudes, and events surrounding a text.10
9917840305occasionThe time and place a speech is given or a piece is written.11
9917840306personaGreek for "mask." The face or character that a speaker shows to his or her audience.12
9917840307polemicGreek for "hostile." An aggressive argument that tries to establish the superiority of one opinion over all others. Polemics generally do not concede that opposing opinions have any merit.13
9917840308propagandaThe spread of ideas and information to further a cause. In its negative sense, propaganda is the use of rumors, lies, disinformation, and scare tactics in order to damage or promote a cause.14
9917840309purposeThe goal the speaker wants to achieve.15
9917840310rhetoricAs Aristotle defined the term, "The faculty of observing in any given case the available means of persuasion." In other words, it is the art of finding ways to persuade an audience.16
9917840311SOAPSToneA mnemonic device that stands for Subject, Occasion, Audience, Purpose, Speaker, and Tone. It is a handy way to remember the various elements that make up the rhetorical situation.17
9917840312speakerThe person or group who creates a text. This might be a politician who delivers a speech, a commentator who writes an article, an artist who draws a political cartoon, or even a company that commissions an advertisement.18
9917840313subjectThe topic of a text; what the text is about.19
9917840314textWhile this terms generally means the written word, in the humanities it has come to mean any cultural product that can be "read"-meaning not just consumed and comprehended, but investigated. This includes fiction, nonfiction, poetry, political cartoons, fine art, photography, performances, fashion, cultural trends, and much more.20
9917840315dictionThe speaker's choice of words. Writers choose words to create and convey a typical mood, tone and atmosphere to their readers. Diction or choice of words separates good writing from bad writing. It depends on a number of factors. Firstly, the word has to be right and accurate. Secondly, words should be appropriate to the context in which they are used. Lastly, the choice of words should be such that the listener or readers understand easily. Besides, proper diction or proper choice of words is important to get the message across. On the contrary, the wrong choice of words can easily divert listeners or readers which results in misinterpretation of the message intended to be conveyed.21
9917840316syntaxHow the words are arranged22
9917840317toneThe speaker's attitude toward's the subject as revealed by his or her choice of language23
9917840318moodHow the work makes the reader feel.24
9917840319metaphorFigure of speech that compares two things without using like or as; says one thing IS another.25
9917840320similesFigure of speech that compares two things using like or as.26
9917840321personificationAttribution of a human quality to an inanimate object or idea.27
9917840322hyperboleExaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken seriously28
9917840323parallelismSimilarity of structure in a pair or series of related words, phrases, or clauses.29
9917840324juxtapositionTwo or more ideas, places, characters, and their actions are placed side by side in a narrative or a poem, for the purpose of developing comparisons and contrasts. ie: Paradise lost30
9917840325antithesisOpposition, or contrast, of ideas or words in a parallel construction.31
9917840326compound sentenceA sentence with more than one subject or predicate32
9917840327complex sentenceA sentence containing a subordinate clause or clauses33
9917840328periodic sentenceSentence whose main clause is withheld until the end.34
9917840329cumulative sentenceSentence that completes the main idea at the beginning of the sentence and then builds and adds on.35
9917840330imperative sentenceSentence used to command or enjoin.36
9917840331pacingHow fast a story unfolds. Does the author reveal details quickly or slowly? How does he or she build suspense?37
9917840332figures of speechA word or phrase used in a nonliteral sense to add rhetorical force to a spoken or written passage38
9917840333zeugmaUse of two different words in a grammatically similar way that produces different, often incongruous meanings.39
9917840334satireThe use of irony or sarcasm to criticize40
9917840335hortative sentenceSentence that exhorts, urges, entreats, implores, or calls to action.41
9917840336allusionBrief reference to a person, event, or place (real or fictitious) or to a work of art.42
9917840337archaic dictionOld-fashioned or outdated choice of words. You can use archaic language for many purposes, such as to sound more official, authoritative, or magical. Think Shakespeare, the Bible, classic literature, etc.43
9917840338asyndetonOmission of conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses, or words.44
9917840339inversionInverted order of words in a sentence (variation of the subject-verb-object order). Hyperbaton refers to any departure from normal word order (sometimes called inverted word order). The unexpected arrangement of words calls sharp attention to the word(s) that are out of their expected place, thus emphasizing them. Displacing words to the end or beginning of a sentence (areas ofgreatest emphasis) further stresses them. Think Yoda.... Examples: Disturb me not! Books they have demanded and books they will get. Normal word order: You should attend first those who need medicine. Inverted word order: Those who need medicine you should attend first. Normal word order: After all the pressure against it, the law prevailed. Hyperbatonic word order: The law, after all the pressure against it, prevailed.45
9917840340oxymoronParadoxical juxtaposition of words that seem to contradict one another. The common oxymoron phrase is a combination of an adjective proceeded by a noun with contrasting meanings, such as "cruel kindness," or "living death". It is important to understand the difference between an oxymoron and a paradox. A paradox may consist of a sentence, or even a group of sentences. An oxymoron, on the other hand, is a combination of two contradictory or opposite words. A paradox seems contradictory to the general truth, but it does contain an implied truth. An oxymoron, however, may produce a dramatic effect, but does not make literal sense.46
9917840341rhetorical questionFigure of speech in form of a question posed for the rhetorical effect rather than for the purpose of getting an answer.47
9917840342synecdocheFigure of speech that uses a part to represent a whole. May also use larger groups to refer to smaller groups, or vice versa. It may also call a thing by the name of the material it is made of, or it may refer to a thing in a container or packaging by the name of that container or packing. Example: The word "bread" refers to food or money, as in "Writing is my bread and butter," or "He is the sole breadwinner." The phrase "gray beard" refers to an old man. The word "sails" refers to a whole ship. The word "suit" refers to a businessman. The word "boots" usually refers to soldiers. The term "coke" is a common synecdoche for all carbonated drinks. "wheels" and "ride" are synecdoches for car The word "glasses" refers to spectacles.48
9917840343imageryWhen a writer describes something using language that appeals to our five senses (sight, smell, taste, touch, hearing)49
9917840344argumentA process of reasoned inquiry; a persuasive discourse resulting in a coherent and considered movement from claim to conclusion.50
9917840345Rogerian ArgumentsDeveloped by psychiatrist Carl Rogers, Rogerian arguments are based on the assumption that having a understanding of an opposing position is essential to responding to it persuasively and refuting it in a way that is accommodating rather than alienating.51
9917840346claimAlso called an assertion or a proposition, a claim states the argument's main idea or position. A claim differs from a topic or subject in that a claim has to be arguable.52
9917840347claim of factA claim of fact asserts that something is true or not true.53
9917840348claim of valueA claim of value argues that something is good or bad, right or wrong.54
9917840349claim of policyA claim of policy proposes a change.55
9917840350closed thesisA closed thesis is a statement of the main idea of the argument that also previews the major points the writer intends to make.56
9917840351open thesisAn open thesis statement is one that does not list all the points the writer intends to cover in an essay.57
9917840352counterargument thesisa summary of the counterargument, usually qualified by although or but, precedes the writer's opinion58
9917840353logical fallacy (fallacy)Logical fallacies are potential vulnerabilities or weaknesses in an argument. They often arise from a failure to make a logical connection between the claim and the evidence used to support it.59
9917840354red herringWhen a speaker skips to a new and irrelevant topic in order to avoid the topic of discussion60
9917840355ad hominemLatin for "to the man," this fallacy refers to the specific diversionary tactic of switching the argument from the issue at hand to the character of the other speaker. If you argue that a park in your community should not be renovated because the person supporting it was arrested during a domestic dispute, then you are guilty of ad hominem.61
9917840356faulty analogyA fallacy that occurs when an analogy compares two things that are not comparable. For instance, to argue that because we put animals who are in irreversible pain out of their misery, we should do the same for people, asks the reader to ignore significant and profound differences between animals and people.62
9917840357straw manA fallacy that occurs when a speaker chooses a deliberately poor or oversimplified example in order to ridicule and refute an idea.63
9917840358either/or (false dilemma)A fallacy in which the speaker presents two extreme options as the only possible choices.64
9917840359hasty generalizationA fallacy in which conclusion is reached because of inadequate evidence.65
9917840360circular reasoningA fallacy in which the writer repeats the claim as a way to provide evidence.66
9917840361first-hand evidenceEvidence based on something that the writer knows, whether it's from personal experience, observations, or general knowledge of events.67
9917840362second-hand evidenceEvidence that is accessed through research, reading, and investigation. It includes factual and historical information, expert opinion, and quantitative data.68
9917840363post hoc ergo propter hocThis fallacy is Latin for "after which therefore because of which," meaning that it is incorrect to always claim that something is a clause just because it happened earlier. One may loosely summarize this fallacy by saying that correlation does not simply imply causation.69
9917840364appeal to false authorityThis fallacy occurs when someone who has no expertise to speak on a issue is cited as an authority. A TV star, for instance, is not a medical expert, even though pharmaceutical advertisements often use celebrity endorsements.70
9917840365quantitative evidenceQuantitative evidence includes things that can be measured, cited, counted, or otherwise represented in numbers-for instance, statistics, surveys, polls, census information.71
9917840366ad populum (bandwagon appeal)This fallacy occurs when evidence boils down to "everybody's doing it, so it must be a good thing to do."72
9917840367introduction (exordium)Introduces the reader to the subject under discussion.73
9917840368narration (narratio)Provides factual information and background material on the subject at hand or establishes why the subject is a problem that needs addressing.74
9917840369confirmation (confirmatio)Usually the major part of the text, the confirmation includes the proof needed to make the writer's case.75
9917840370refutation (refutatio)Addresses the counterargument. It is a bridge between the writer's proof and conclusion.76
9917840371conclusion (peroratio)Brings the essay to a satisfying close.77
9917840372syllogismA logical structure that uses the major premise and minor premise to reach a necessary conclusion.78
9917840373inductionFrom the Latin inducere, "to lead into"; a logical process whereby the writer reasons from particulars to universals, using specific cases in order to draw a conclusion, which is also called generalization.79
9917840374deductionDeduction is a logical process whereby one reaches a conclusion by starting with a general principal or universal truth (a major premise). The process of deduction usually demonstrated in the form of a syllogism.80
9917840375Toulmin modelAn approach to analyzing and constructing arguments created by British philosopher Stephen Toulmin in his book The Uses of Argument (1985). The Toulmin model can be stated as a template: Because (evidence as support), therefore (claim), since (warrant or assumption), on account of (backing), unless (reservation).81
9917840376warrantIn the Toulmin model, the warrant expresses the assumption necessarily shared by the speaker and the audience.82
9917840377assumptionIn the Toulmin model, the warrant expresses the assumption necessarily shared by the speaker and the audience.83
9917840378backingIn the Toulmin model, backing consists of further assurances or data without which the assumption lacks authority.84
9917840379qualifierIn the Toulmin model, the qualifier uses words like usually, probably, maybe, in most cases, and most likely to temper the claim, making it less absolute.85
9917840380reservationIn the Toulmin model, a reservation explains the terms and conditions necessitated by the qualifier.86
9917840381rebuttalIn the Toulmin model, a rebuttal gives voice to possible objections.87
9917840382begging the questionA fallacy in which a claim is based on evidence or support that is in doubt. It "begs" a question whether the support itself is sound.88
9917840383the classical orationFive-part argument structure used by classical rhetoricians. The five parts are: -introduction (exordium) -narration (narratio) -confirmation (confirmatio) -refutation (refutatio) -conclusion (peroratio)89
9917840384syndetona sentence style in which words, phrases, or clauses are joined by conjunctions (usually and).90
9917840385qualitative evidenceDescriptive information, which often comes from interviews, focus groups or artistic depictions such as photographs.91
9917840386bias1. a prejudiced view (either for or against); a preference. 2. a partiality that prevents objective consideration of an issue or situation92
9917840387Validity (or logically valid)the fact that the truth of the premises logically guarantees the truth of the conclusion. Whenever the premises are true, the conclusion must be true.93
9917840388scare tacticsusing fear to sway people by exaggerating possible dangers well beyond their statistical likelihood94
9917840389slippery slopeSuggest dire consequences from relatively minor causes95
9917840390dogmatismshuts down discussion by asserting that the writer's beliefs are the only acceptable ones96
9917840391equivocationthe use of ambiguous language to conceal the truth or to avoid committing oneself; it is a half truth97
9917840392non sequitura statement that does not follow logically from evidence98
9917840393undistributed middleis a formal fallacy that is committed when the middle term in a categorical syllogism is not distributed in either the minor premise or the major premise. Pattern: All Z is B All Y is B Therefore, all Y is Z B is the common term between the two premises (the middle term) but is never distributed, so this syllogism is invalid. eg: All students carry backpacks. My grandfather carries a backpack. Therefore, my grandfather is a student.99
9917840394isocolona rhetorical device that involves a succession of sentences, phrases, and clauses of grammatically equal length. In this figure of speech, a sentence has a parallel structure that is made up of words, clauses, or phrases of equal length, sound, meter, and rhythm. Isocolon is the repetition of similar grammatical forms.100
9917840395chiasmusa rhetorical device in which two or more clauses are balanced against each other by the reversal of their structures in order to produce an artistic effect.101
9917840396antimetabolea literary term or device that involves repeating a phrase in reverse order. For example: "You like it; it likes you." "Fair is foul and foul is fair."102
9917840397anaphoraRepetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive phrases, clauses, or lines. This device produces a strong emotional effect, especially in speech. It also establishes a marked change in rhythm. a. "We shall not flag or fail. We shall go on to the end. We shall fight in France, we shall fight on the seas and oceans, we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air, we shall defend our island . . . we shall never surrender." (Winston Churchill, 1940) b. "Why should white people be running all the stores in our community? Why should white people be running the banks of our community? Why should the economy of our community be in the hands of the white man? Why?" (Malcolm X) c. "Yesterday, the Japanese government also launched an attack against Malaya. Last night, Japanese forces attacked Hong Kong. Last night, Japanese forces attacked Guam. Last night, Japanese forces attacked the Philippine Islands. Last night, the Japanese attacked Wake Island. And this morning, the Japanese attacked Midway Island." (Franklin Roosevelt, Pearl Harbor Address)103
9917840398epistropherepetition of the same word or group of words at the ends of successive phrases. Like anaphora, epistrophe produces a strong rhythm and emphasis. a. "But to all of those who would be tempted by weakness, let us leave no doubt that we will be as strong as we need to be for as long as we need to be." (Richard Nixon, First Inaugural Address) b. "...and that government of the people, by the people, for the people shall not perish from the earth." (Abraham Lincoln, Gettysburg Address) c. "As long as the white man sent you to Korea, you bled. He sent you to Germany, you bled. He sent you to the South Pacific to fight the Japanese, you bled." (Speech by Malcolm X) d. "In a cake, nothing tastes like real butter, nothing moistens like real butter, nothing enriches like real butter, nothing satisfies like real butter." (Caption from a Pillsbury ad)104
9917840399epanalepsis(eh-puh-nuh-LEAP-siss) — repetition of the same word or words at both beginning and ending of a phrase, clause, or sentence. Like other schemes of repetition, epanalepsis often produces or expresses strong emotion. a. Blood hath bought blood, and blows have answer'd blows:/ Strength match'd with strength, and power confronted power. (William Shakespeare, King John) b. "Nothing is worse than doing nothing." c. "A minimum wage that is not a livable wage can never be a minimum wage." (Ralph Nader)105
9917840400anadiplosis(an-uh-dih-PLO-sis) — repetition of the last word of one clause at the beginning of the following clause. a. "The crime was common, common be the pain". (Alexander Pope, "Eloise to Abelard" b. "Aboard my ship, excellent performance is standard. Standard performance is sub-standard. Sub-standard performance is not permitted to exist." (Captain Queeg, Herman Wouk's The Caine Mutiny) c. "Somehow, with the benefit of little formal education, my grandparents recognized the inexorable downward spiral of conduct outside the guardrails: If you lie, you will cheat; if you cheat, you will steal; if you steal, you will kill." (Justice Clarence Thomas, 1993 Mercer Law School Address) d. "They call for you: The general who became a slave; the slave who became a gladiator; the gladiator who defied an Emperor. Striking story." (line delivered by Joaquin Phoenix, from the movie Gladiator)106
9917840401polyptoton(po-lyp-TO-ton) — repetition of words derived from the same root. a. "But in this desert country they may see the land being rendered useless by overuse." (Joseph Wood Krutch, The Voice of the Desert) b. "We would like to contain the uncontainable future in a glass." (Loren Eiseley, from an article in Harper's, March 1964) c. "With eager feeding food doth choke the feeder." (Shakespeare's Richard II 2.1.37) d. "Let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself." (Franklin Roosevelt, First Inaugural Address, March 1933)107
9917840402alliterationrepetition in which a number of words, having the same first consonant sound, occur close together in a series. Alliteration does not depend on letters but on sounds. So the phrase not knotty is alliterative, but cigarette chase is not. a. "The fair breeze blew, the white foam flew, The furrow followed free" Samuel Taylor Coolridge b. "It was the meanest moment of eternity". (Zora Neale Hurston, Their Eyes Were Watching God) c. "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." (James Joyce,The Dead) d. Names, logos, and ads are often alliterative because it helps you remember: Dunkin' Donuts PayPal; Best Buy;Coca-Cola; Lois Lane; Sammy Sosa; Ronald Reagan; Porky Pig; etc.108
9917840403assonancethe repetition of similar vowel sounds, preceded and followed by different consonants, in the stressed syllables of adjacent words. a. "Whales in the wake like capes and Alps/ Quaked the sick sea and snouted deep." (Dylan Thomas, "Ballad of the Long Legged Bait") b. "Refresh your zest for living." (advertisement for French Line Ships) c. "Strips of tinfoil winking like people." (Sylvia Plath) d. "The gloves didn't fit. If it doesn't fit, you must acquit." (Johnny Cochran, O.J.Simpson trial)109
9917840404consonanceThe use of a series of consonants in quick succession - used more in poetry than in prose. a. "The pitter patter of perpetual precipitation put me in a petulant mood". While there is alliteration in this sentence with the letter p being repeated in the beginning of words, the repeated p and t are consonant. b. "Rap rejects my tape deck, ejects projectile Whether Jew or gentile, I rank top percentile Many styles, more powerful than gamma rays My grammar pays, like Carlos Santana plays."110
9917840405homoioptotonThe repetition of similar case endings in adjacent words or in words in parallel position. We commonly refer to this simply as "rhyme."111
9917840406ellipsisEllipsis is the omission of a word or series of words. There are two slightly different definitions of ellipsis which are pertinent to literature. The first definition of ellipsis is the commonly used series of three dots, which can be place at the beginning, in the middle, or at the end of a sentence or clause. But more importantly, for AP purposes, the second is: a linguistically appropriate omission of words that are mutually understood and thus unnecessary. This type of ellipsis is usually used where the words omitted would be redundant. example: Gapping: I ordered the linguine, and he [ordered] the lobster. Stripping: I ordered the linguine, [I did] not [order] lobster. Verb phrase ellipsis: I'll order the linguine and you can [order the linguine], too. Answer ellipsis: Who ordered the linguine? I did [order the linguine]. Sluicing: I'll get something to drink, but I'm not sure what [I'll get to drink]. Nominal ellipsis: I ordered two drinks, and Bill [ordered] one.112
9917840407metonymya type of metaphor where the substitution of the name of an attribute for that of the thing meant. Examples: The pen is mightier than the sword. -Edward Bulwer-Lytton This land belongs to the crown. Flight simulators are valuable because you can die in software and still be around to fly another day. You cannot fight city hall. The orders came directly from the White House. After four years of reading and writing, I got my bachelor's degree and left college. After four years of filling in the bubbles on machine-scored answer sheets, I got my bachelor's degree and left college.113
9917840408parenthesisa stylistic device that comes from the Greek word meaning "to place," or "alongside." Parenthesis is a qualifying or explanatory sentence, clause, or word that writers insert into a paragraph or passage. However, if they leave it out, even then it does not grammatically affect the text, which is correct without it. Parenthesis makes the statements more convincing, as it puts the readers in a right form from the very beginning where they read it as an explanation. However, its main function is to give more explanation and add emphasis, while its repeated use can cause focus and thus makes parenthetical insertions a dominant feature of a sentence. Parenthesis also offers readers an insight into true feelings and opinions of characters and narrators, while they might tend to evade parenthetical information as unimportant. Doing this, parenthesis could leave them clueless to the actual purpose of a sentence. In addition, it often creates humorous effect by using hyperbole and understatements.114
9917840409paradoxan apparently contradictory statement that actually contains some truth. examples: Less is more You can save money by spending it. I know one thing; that I know nothing. This is the beginning of the end. Deep down, you're really shallow. I'm a compulsive liar. "Men work together whether they work together or apart." - Robert Frost "What a pity that youth must be wasted on the young." - George Bernard Shaw "I can resist anything but temptation." - Oscar Wilde Here are the rules: Ignore all rules. The second sentence is false. The first sentence is true.115

AP Language Literary Terms, AP Language terms Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
9940116927Cumulative (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
9940116928Periodic Sentencea sentence that, by leaving the completion of its main clause to the end, produces an effect of suspense.1
9940116929Litotes/Understatementa figure of speech in which a negative statement is used to affirm a positive statement.2
9940116930Warrantexpresses the assumption necessarily shared by the speaker and the audience.3
9940116931Ethosan appeal to ethics and it is a means of convincing someone of the character or credibility of the persuader.4
9940116932Pathosan appeal to emotion, and is a way of convincing an audience of an argument by creating an emotional response.5
9940116933Logosan appeal to logic, and is a way of persuading an audience by reason.6
9940116934Concessionan acknowledgement that an opposing argument may be true or reasonable.7
9940116935SyllogismA logical structure that uses the major premise and minor premise to reach a necessary conclusion.8
9940116936Major premisecontains the term that is the predicate of the conclusion.9
9940116937Minor premisecontains the term that is the subject of the conclusion.10
9940116938Inductiona 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
9940116939Deductiona logical process wherein you reach a conclusion by starting with a general principle or universal truth (a major premise).12
9940116940Equivocationa fallacy of argument in which a lie is given the appearance of truth, or in which the truth is misrepresented in deceptive language. use ambiguous language so as to conceal the truth or avoid committing oneself.13
9940116941Refutationa denial of the validity of an opposing argument.14
9940116942Dictiona speaker's choice of words. Analysis of diction looks at these choices and what they add to the speaker's message.15
9940116943Similea 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
9940116944Metaphorfigure of speech that compares two unlike things without using like or as.17
9940116945Anaphorathe intentional repetition of beginning clauses in order to create an artistic effect.18
9940116946Rhetoricit is the art of finding ways of persuading an audience.19
9940116947Rhetorical Trianglespeaker-subject-audience20
9940116948Allusionbrief reference to a person, event, or place (real or fictitious) to to a work of art.21
9940116949Hyperboledeliberate exaggeration used for emphasis or to produce a comic or ironic effect; an overstatement to make a point.22
9940116950Personificationattribution of a lifelike quality to an inanimate object or an idea.23
9940116951Asyndetonomission of conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses, or words.24
9940116952Polysyndetonthe deliberate use of multiple conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses or words.25
9940116953Parallelismsimilarity of structure in a pair or series of related words, phrases, or clauses.26
9940116954Antithesisopposition, or contrast or ideas or words in a parallel construction.27
9940116955Enumerationto mention separately as if in counting; name one by one; specify, as in list28
9940116956Rhetorical 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
9940116957Chiasmusthe reversal in the order of words in two otherwise parallel phrases. Ex.) He went to the country, the country went to him.30
9940116958RebuttalIn the Toulon model, a rebuttal gives voice to possible objections.31
9940116959Fallacy of Argumenta flaw in the structure of an argument that renders its conclusion invalid or suspect.32
9940116960Bandwagon Appeala fallacy of argument in which a course of action is recommended on the grounds that everyone else is following it.33
9940116961Begging the Questiona fallacy of argument in which a claim is based on the very grounds that are in doubt or dispute.34
9940116962Anecdotea brief story used to illustrate a point or claim.35
9940116963Modes 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
9940116964Examplea specific event, person, or detail of an idea cited and/or developed to support or illustrate a thesis or topic.37
9940116965Contrast/ 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
9940116966Cause and Effectestablishes a relationship: B is the result of A.39
9940116967Classificationseparates items into major categories and details the characteristics of each group is placed within the category.40
9940116968Processsimply "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
9940116969Definitionidentifies the class to which a specific term belongs and those characteristics which make it different from all the other items in that class.42
9940116970Narrationis nothing more than storytelling. There is a beginning, a middle, and an end.43
9940116971Descriptionwriting 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
9940116972Dogmatism`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
9940116973False 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
9940116974False authoritya fallacy of argument in which a claim is based on the expertise of someone who lacks appropriate credentials.47
9940116975Faulty 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
9940116976Hasty generalizationa fallacy of argument in which an inference is drawn from insufficient data.49
9940116977Non sequitora fallacy of argument in which claims, reasons, or warrants fail to connect logically; one point doesn't follow from another.50
9940116996AllegoryThe 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. a story, poem, or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one.51
9940116997AlliterationThe repetition of sounds, especially initial consonant sounds in two or more neighboring words (as in "she sells sea shells").52
9940116998AllusionA direct or indirect reference to something which is presumably commonly known, such as an event, book, myth, place, or work of art.53
9940116999AmbiguityThe multiple meanings, either intentional or unintentional, of a word, phrase, sentence, or passage.54
9940117000AnalogyA similarity or comparison between two different things or the relationship between them.55
9940117001AntecedentThe word, phrase, or clause referred to by a pronoun.56
9940117002Antithesisthe opposition or contrast of ideas; the direct opposite.57
9940117003AphorismA 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
9940117004ApostropheA 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. A writer or speaker, using apostrophe, speaks directly to someone who is not present or is dead, or speaks to an inanimate object.59
9940117005AtmosphereThe 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
9940117006Caricaturea verbal description, the purpose of which is to exaggerate or distort, for comic effect, a person's distinctive physical features or other characteristics.61
9940117007ClauseA grammatical unit that contains both a subject and a verb.62
9940117008Colloquial/ColloquialismThe use of slang or informalities in speech or writing.63
9940117009Literary 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
9940117010ConnotationThe non-literal, associative meaning of a word; the implied, suggested meaning.65
9940117011DenotationThe strict, literal, dictionary definition of a word, devoid of any emotion, attitude, or color.66
9940117012DictionRelated to style, diction refers to the writer's word choices, especially with regard to their correctness, clearness, or effectiveness.67
9940117013DidacticFrom the Greek, didactic literally means "teaching."68
9940117014EuphemismFrom the Greek for "good speech," euphemisms are a more agreeable or less offensive substitute for a generally unpleasant word or concept - POLITICALLY CORRECT69
9940117015Extended MetaphorA metaphor developed at great length, occurring frequently in or throughout a work.70
9940117016Figurative LanguageWriting or speech that is not intended to carry literal meaning and is usually meant to be imaginative and vivid71
9940117017Figure 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
9940117018GenreThe major category into which a literary work fits. The basic divisions of literature are prose, poetry, and drama.73
9940117019HomilyThis term literally means "sermon," but more informally, it can include any serious talk, speech, or lecture involving moral or spiritual advice.74
9940117020HyperboleA figure of speech using deliberate exaggeration or overstatement. (The literal Greek meaning is "overshoot.")75
9940117021ImageryThe sensory details or figurative language used to describe, arouse emotion, or represent abstractions.76
9940117022Inference/inferTo draw a reasonable conclusion from the information presented.77
9940117023Invectivean emotionally violent, verbal denunciation or attack using strong, abusive language.78
9940117024Irony/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
9940117025Loose 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
9940117026MetaphorA figure of speech using implied comparison of seemingly unlike things or the substitution of one for the other, suggesting some similarity.81
9940117027MetonymyA figure of speech in which the name of one object is substituted for that of another closely associated with it.82
9940117028MoodThe prevailing atmosphere or emotional aura of a work.83
9940117029NarrativeThe telling of a story or an account of an event or series of events.84
9940117030onomatopoeiaA figure of speech in which natural sounds are imitated in the sounds of words.85
9940117031OxymoronOxymoron is a figure of speech wherein the author groups apparently contradictory terms to suggest a paradox.86
9940117032ParadoxA statement that appears to be self-contradictory or opposed to common sense but upon closer inspection contains some degree of truth or validity.87
9940117033Parallelismthe use of successive verbal constructions in poetry or prose that correspond in grammatical structure, sound, meter, meaning, etc.88
9940117034ParodyA work that closely imitates the style or content of another with the specific aim of comic effect and/or ridicule.89
9940117035PedanticAn 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
9940117036Periodic sentenceThe opposite of loose sentence, a sentence that presents its central meaning in a main clause at the end.91
9940117037PersonificationA figure of speech in which the author presents or describes concepts, animals, or inanimate objects by endowing them with human attributes or emotions.92
9940117038Point of viewIn literature, the perspective from which a story is told.93
9940117039Prosewritten or spoken language in its ordinary form, without metrical structure.94
9940117040RepetitionThe duplication, either exact or approximate, of any element of language, such as a sound, word, phrase, clause, sentence, or grammatical pattern.95
9940117041RhetoricFrom the Greek for "orator," this term describes the principles governing the art of writing effectively, eloquently, and persuasively.96
9940117042SarcasmInvolves bitter, caustic language that is meant to hurt or ridicule someone or something.97
9940117043SatireA work that targets human vices and follies or social institutions and conventions for reform or ridicule.98
9940117044Subordinate 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
9940117045SyllogismA 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
9940117046Symbol/symbolismGenerally, anything that represents itself and stands for something else.101
9940117047SyntaxThe way an author chooses to join words into phrases, clauses, and sentences.102
9940117048ThemeThe central idea or message of a work, the insight it offers into life.103
9940117049ThesisThe sentence or group of sentences that directly expresses the author's opinion, purpose, meaning, or position.104
9940117050ToneDescribes the author's attitude toward his material, the audience, or both.105
9940117051TransitionA 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
9940117052Understatementthe ironic minimalizing of fact; presents something as less significant than it is.107
9940117053Witin modern usage, intellectually amusing language that surprises and delights.108
9940117054Slippery SlopeThis is the failure to provide evidence to support a claim that one event will lead to a catastrophic chain of events.109
9940117055straw manWhen a writer argues against a claim that nobody actually holds or is universally considered weak.110
9940117056EthosAn 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
9940117057JuxtapositionMaking on idea more dramatic by placing it next to its opposite.112
9940117058LogosAn appeal to reason.113
9940117059PathosAn appeal to emotion.114
9940117060Rhetorical QuestionA question whose answer is assumed.115
9940117061SimileA 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
9940117062rhetorical 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
9940117063descriptive detailWhen an essay uses this phrase, look for the writer's sensory description.118
9940117064devicesThe figures of speech, syntax, diction, and other stylistic elements that collectively produce a particular artistic effect.119
9940117065narrative 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
9940117066narrative 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
9940117067Ad hominem argumentAn argument attacking an individual's character rather than his or her position on an issue122
9940117068AnaphoraFigure 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
9940117069AnecdoteA brief story that illustrates or makes a point124
9940117070Appeal 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
9940117071Argumentationone 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
9940117072AssonanceRepetition of a vowel sound within two or more words in close proximity127
9940117073AsyndetonA series of words separated by commas (with no conjunction).128
9940117074toneA speaker's, author's, or character's disposition toward or opinion of a subject.129
9940117075audienceOne's listener or readership; those to whom a speech or piece of writing is addressed.130
9940117076Balanced sentenceA sentence in which words, phrases, or clauses are set off against each other to emphasize a contrast131
9940117077Begging the questionOften called circular reasoning, __ occurs when the believability of the evidence depends on the believability of the claim.132
9940116978understatement"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
9940116979parallelism"My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." John F. Kennedy134
9940116980allusionThe rise in poverty will unlock the Pandora's box of crimes.135
9940116981hyperbole"I'll love you, dear, I'll love you/Till China and Africa meet,/And the river jumps over the mountain"136
9940116982aphorism"Having nothing, nothing can he lose."137
9940116983metonymy"Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears." Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, Act I138
9940116984invective"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
9940116985antithesis"To err is human; to forgive divine." Alexander Pope "An Essay on Criticism"140
9940116986euphemism"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
9940116987periodic sentenceIn spite of heavy snow and cold temperatures, the game continued.142
9940116988paradox"Whatever you do will be insignificant, but it is very important that you do it." -Gandhi143
9940116989alliteration"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
9940116990chiasmus"he heard the snow falling faintly through the universe and faintly falling"145
9940116991oxymoron"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
9940116992personification"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
9940116993onomatopoeia"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
9940116994inverted syntax"Patience you must have, my young padawan."149
9940116995spatial 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, Test Study 8 Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
7125009447dictatorialdomineering; oppressively overbearing0
7125010181disdaincontempt, scorn1
7125010732imperiousarrogantly domineering or overbearing2
7125012502patronizingtreating in a condescending manner3
7125013497convolutedintricate; complex4
7125014940crypticdifficult to comprehend5
7125015832futilehaving no useful purpose; pointless6
7125016234impedeto slow the progress of7
7125016621obscurerelatively unknown8
7125017495quandarya state of uncertainty or perplexity9

AP Language Literary Terms, AP Language terms Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
9954685048Cumulative (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
9954685049Periodic Sentencea sentence that, by leaving the completion of its main clause to the end, produces an effect of suspense.1
9954685050Litotes/Understatementa figure of speech in which a negative statement is used to affirm a positive statement.2
9954685051Warrantexpresses the assumption necessarily shared by the speaker and the audience.3
9954685052Ethosan appeal to ethics and it is a means of convincing someone of the character or credibility of the persuader.4
9954685053Pathosan appeal to emotion, and is a way of convincing an audience of an argument by creating an emotional response.5
9954685054Logosan appeal to logic, and is a way of persuading an audience by reason.6
9954685055Concessionan acknowledgement that an opposing argument may be true or reasonable.7
9954685056SyllogismA logical structure that uses the major premise and minor premise to reach a necessary conclusion.8
9954685057Major premisecontains the term that is the predicate of the conclusion.9
9954685058Minor premisecontains the term that is the subject of the conclusion.10
9954685059Inductiona 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
9954685060Deductiona logical process wherein you reach a conclusion by starting with a general principle or universal truth (a major premise).12
9954685061Equivocationa fallacy of argument in which a lie is given the appearance of truth, or in which the truth is misrepresented in deceptive language.13
9954685062Refutationa denial of the validity of an opposing argument.14
9954685063Dictiona speaker's choice of words. Analysis of diction looks at these choices and what they add to the speaker's message.15
9954685064Similea 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
9954685065Metaphorfigure of speech that compares two unlike things without using like or as.17
9954685066Anaphorathe intentional repetition of beginning clauses in order to create an artistic effect.18
9954685067Rhetoricit is the art of finding ways of persuading an audience.19
9954685068Rhetorical Trianglespeaker-subject-audience20
9954685069Allusionbrief reference to a person, event, or place (real or fictitious) to to a work of art.21
9954685070Hyperboledeliberate exaggeration used for emphasis or to produce a comic or ironic effect; an overstatement to make a point.22
9954685071Personificationattribution of a lifelike quality to an inanimate object or an idea.23
9954685072Asyndetonomission of conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses, or words.24
9954685073Polysyndetonthe deliberate use of multiple conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses or words.25
9954685074Parallelismsimilarity of structure in a pair or series of related words, phrases, or clauses.26
9954685075Antithesisopposition, or contrast or ideas or words in a parallel construction.27
9954685076Enumerationto mention separately as if in counting; name one by one; specify, as in list28
9954685077Rhetorical 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
9954685078Chiasmusthe reversal in the order of words in two otherwise parallel phrases. Ex.) He went to the country, the country went to him.30
9954685079RebuttalIn the Toulon model, a rebuttal gives voice to possible objections.31
9954685080Fallacy of Argumenta flaw in the structure of an argument that renders its conclusion invalid or suspect.32
9954685081Bandwagon Appeala fallacy of argument in which a course of action is recommended on the grounds that everyone else is following it.33
9954685082Begging the Questiona fallacy of argument in which a claim is based on the very grounds that are in doubt or dispute.34
9954685083Anecdotea brief story used to illustrate a point or claim.35
9954685084Modes 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
9954685085Examplea specific event, person, or detail of an idea cited and/or developed to support or illustrate a thesis or topic.37
9954685086Contrast/ 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
9954685087Cause and Effectestablishes a relationship: B is the result of A.39
9954685088Classificationseparates items into major categories and details the characteristics of each group is placed within the category.40
9954685089Processsimply "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
9954685090Definitionidentifies the class to which a specific term belongs and those characteristics which make it different from all the other items in that class.42
9954685091Narrationis nothing more than storytelling. There is a beginning, a middle, and an end.43
9954685092Descriptionwriting 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
9954685093Dogmatism`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
9954685094False 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
9954685095False authoritya fallacy of argument in which a claim is based on the expertise of someone who lacks appropriate credentials.47
9954685096Faulty 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
9954685097Hasty generalizationa fallacy of argument in which an inference is drawn from insufficient data.49
9954685098Non sequitora fallacy of argument in which claims, reasons, or warrants fail to connect logically; one point doesn't follow from another.50
9954685117AllegoryThe 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
9954685118AlliterationThe repetition of sounds, especially initial consonant sounds in two or more neighboring words (as in "she sells sea shells").52
9954685119AllusionA direct or indirect reference to something which is presumably commonly known, such as an event, book, myth, place, or work of art.53
9954685120AmbiguityThe multiple meanings, either intentional or unintentional, of a word, phrase, sentence, or passage.54
9954685121AnalogyA similarity or comparison between two different things or the relationship between them.55
9954685122AntecedentThe word, phrase, or clause referred to by a pronoun.56
9954685123Antithesisthe opposition or contrast of ideas; the direct opposite.57
9954685124AphorismA 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
9954685125ApostropheA 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
9954685126AtmosphereThe 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
9954685127Caricaturea verbal description, the purpose of which is to exaggerate or distort, for comic effect, a person's distinctive physical features or other characteristics.61
9954685128ClauseA grammatical unit that contains both a subject and a verb.62
9954685129Colloquial/ColloquialismThe use of slang or informalities in speech or writing.63
9954685130Literary 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
9954685131ConnotationThe non-literal, associative meaning of a word; the implied, suggested meaning.65
9954685132DenotationThe strict, literal, dictionary definition of a word, devoid of any emotion, attitude, or color.66
9954685133DictionRelated to style, diction refers to the writer's word choices, especially with regard to their correctness, clearness, or effectiveness.67
9954685134DidacticFrom the Greek, didactic literally means "teaching."68
9954685135EuphemismFrom the Greek for "good speech," euphemisms are a more agreeable or less offensive substitute for a generally unpleasant word or concept - POLITICALLY CORRECT69
9954685136Extended MetaphorA metaphor developed at great length, occurring frequently in or throughout a work.70
9954685137Figurative LanguageWriting or speech that is not intended to carry literal meaning and is usually meant to be imaginative and vivid71
9954685138Figure 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
9954685139GenreThe major category into which a literary work fits. The basic divisions of literature are prose, poetry, and drama.73
9954685140HomilyThis term literally means "sermon," but more informally, it can include any serious talk, speech, or lecture involving moral or spiritual advice.74
9954685141HyperboleA figure of speech using deliberate exaggeration or overstatement. (The literal Greek meaning is "overshoot.")75
9954685142ImageryThe sensory details or figurative language used to describe, arouse emotion, or represent abstractions.76
9954685143Inference/inferTo draw a reasonable conclusion from the information presented.77
9954685144Invectivean emotionally violent, verbal denunciation or attack using strong, abusive language.78
9954685145Irony/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
9954685146Loose 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
9954685147MetaphorA figure of speech using implied comparison of seemingly unlike things or the substitution of one for the other, suggesting some similarity.81
9954685148MetonymyA figure of speech in which the name of one object is substituted for that of another closely associated with it.82
9954685149MoodThe prevailing atmosphere or emotional aura of a work.83
9954685150NarrativeThe telling of a story or an account of an event or series of events.84
9954685151onomatopoeiaA figure of speech in which natural sounds are imitated in the sounds of words.85
9954685152OxymoronOxymoron is a figure of speech wherein the author groups apparently contradictory terms to suggest a paradox.86
9954685153ParadoxA statement that appears to be self-contradictory or opposed to common sense but upon closer inspection contains some degree of truth or validity.87
9954685154Parallelismthe use of successive verbal constructions in poetry or prose that correspond in grammatical structure, sound, meter, meaning, etc.88
9954685155ParodyA work that closely imitates the style or content of another with the specific aim of comic effect and/or ridicule.89
9954685156PedanticAn 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
9954685157Periodic sentenceThe opposite of loose sentence, a sentence that presents its central meaning in a main clause at the end.91
9954685158PersonificationA figure of speech in which the author presents or describes concepts, animals, or inanimate objects by endowing them with human attributes or emotions.92
9954685159Point of viewIn literature, the perspective from which a story is told.93
9954685160Prosewritten or spoken language in its ordinary form, without metrical structure.94
9954685161RepetitionThe duplication, either exact or approximate, of any element of language, such as a sound, word, phrase, clause, sentence, or grammatical pattern.95
9954685162RhetoricFrom the Greek for "orator," this term describes the principles governing the art of writing effectively, eloquently, and persuasively.96
9954685163SarcasmInvolves bitter, caustic language that is meant to hurt or ridicule someone or something.97
9954685164SatireA work that targets human vices and follies or social institutions and conventions for reform or ridicule.98
9954685165Subordinate 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
9954685166SyllogismA 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
9954685167Symbol/symbolismGenerally, anything that represents itself and stands for something else.101
9954685168SyntaxThe way an author chooses to join words into phrases, clauses, and sentences.102
9954685169ThemeThe central idea or message of a work, the insight it offers into life.103
9954685170ThesisThe sentence or group of sentences that directly expresses the author's opinion, purpose, meaning, or position.104
9954685171ToneDescribes the author's attitude toward his material, the audience, or both.105
9954685172TransitionA 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
9954685173Understatementthe ironic minimalizing of fact; presents something as less significant than it is.107
9954685174Witin modern usage, intellectually amusing language that surprises and delights.108
9954685175Slippery SlopeThis is the failure to provide evidence to support a claim that one event will lead to a catastrophic chain of events.109
9954685176straw manWhen a writer argues against a claim that nobody actually holds or is universally considered weak.110
9954685177EthosAn 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
9954685178JuxtapositionMaking on idea more dramatic by placing it next to its opposite.112
9954685179LogosAn appeal to reason.113
9954685180PathosAn appeal to emotion.114
9954685181Rhetorical QuestionA question whose answer is assumed.115
9954685182SimileA 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
9954685183rhetorical 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
9954685184descriptive detailWhen an essay uses this phrase, look for the writer's sensory description.118
9954685185devicesThe figures of speech, syntax, diction, and other stylistic elements that collectively produce a particular artistic effect.119
9954685186narrative 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
9954685187narrative 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
9954685188Ad hominem argumentAn argument attacking an individual's character rather than his or her position on an issue122
9954685189AnaphoraFigure 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
9954685190AnecdoteA brief story that illustrates or makes a point124
9954685191Appeal 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
9954685192Argumentationone 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
9954685193AssonanceRepetition of a vowel sound within two or more words in close proximity127
9954685194AsyndetonA series of words separated by commas (with no conjunction).128
9954685195toneA speaker's, author's, or character's disposition toward or opinion of a subject.129
9954685196audienceOne's listener or readership; those to whom a speech or piece of writing is addressed.130
9954685197Balanced sentenceA sentence in which words, phrases, or clauses are set off against each other to emphasize a contrast131
9954685198Begging the questionOften called circular reasoning, __ occurs when the believability of the evidence depends on the believability of the claim.132
9954685099understatement"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
9954685100parallelism"My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." John F. Kennedy134
9954685101allusionThe rise in poverty will unlock the Pandora's box of crimes.135
9954685102hyperbole"I'll love you, dear, I'll love you/Till China and Africa meet,/And the river jumps over the mountain"136
9954685103aphorism"Having nothing, nothing can he lose."137
9954685104metonymy"Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears." Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, Act I138
9954685105invective"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
9954685106antithesis"To err is human; to forgive divine." Alexander Pope "An Essay on Criticism"140
9954685107euphemism"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
9954685108periodic sentenceIn spite of heavy snow and cold temperatures, the game continued.142
9954685109paradox"Whatever you do will be insignificant, but it is very important that you do it." -Gandhi143
9954685110alliteration"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
9954685111chiasmus"he heard the snow falling faintly through the universe and faintly falling"145
9954685112oxymoron"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
9954685113personification"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
9954685114onomatopoeia"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
9954685115inverted syntax"Patience you must have, my young padawan."149
9954685116spatial 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
7923468839equitablefair, just, embodying principles of justice0
7923472645pejorativetending to make worse; expressing disapproval or disparagement, derogatory, deprecatory, belittling1
7923478701avariciousgreedy2
7923478702forthrightfrank, direct, straightforward3
7923480879chiasmusthis is an ABBA syntactical structure rather than the more common parallel ABAB structure4
7923482780non sequitura statement that does not follow logically from evidence5
7923485053implicationthe act of suggesting or hinting6
7923601059polemicControversial argument, esp. one attacking a specific idea7
7923604205dichotomyDivision into two parts or into two contradictory groups8

Ap language Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
7939971469What is the approximate number of languages?69000
7939971470Who many of these are spoken by 100,000,000 people?111
7939971471Mandern has the highest number of people who speak what?English2
7939971472English is the most spoken Lang. Where?Around the the world3
7939971473LanguageCommunication through speech and it is understood to have the same meaning4
7939971474Literary traditionA system of written communication5
7939971475official languageWhen the government of a country designates one or more languages as the one to be used for everything.6
7939971476Does the U.S have an official language?No7
7939971477A language family are the what?Tree trunks8
7939971478English is the official language of how many countries?579
7939971479In the last 4 centuries what country has conlonized all over the globe?England10
79399714801600sIreland(celts) 2,000 BC11
793997148116091609> N. Am(Canada and us)12
7939971482Mid 1700sS Asia13
7939971483S. Pacific1800s14
7939971484S africaLate 1800s15
79399714851899Us> Philippines16
7939971486AnglesSouth Denmark17
7939971487SaxonsNorthwest Germany18
7939971488JutesNorth Denmark19
7939971489800 ADNorthwest Germany20
7939971490DialectsThe spelling, pronunciation, and vocabulary that vary in dialect21
7939971491Why do we have different dialects in the us?We do because of English migration22
7939971492IsoglossA boundary of word usage23
7939971493TrunkLanguage family; pre historic24
7939971494branchLanguage branch; several thousands of years ago25
7939971495Indo European family8 branches26
7939971496The 8 branches of the indo European family are...?Indo Iranian, romance, Germanic, Baltic Slavic, Albanian, Armenian, Greek, and Celtic27
7939971497Indo Iranian BranchClustered in South Asia - east group(India) - hindi(India) West group - Persian - poshto - kurdish28
7939971498Germanic branchRecent split from branch - West Germanic= eng., Dutch, fl, af - north germanic= Swedish, danish, noreign, Iceland29
7939971499Balto SlavicWest= polish, Czech, Slovak South= Slavic, Serbian, Bosnian, Croatian East Slavic= Russia, Ukrainian, belarusam30
7939971500BalkanizationEthnic cleansing31
7939971501South Slavic after ww1- created a country called yugo slavia - Tito was in charge of this country. He died in 1980. - USSR collapses in 1989 - 1990s- everything erupts; brutally murdering until they got their own country32
7939971502Romance branch evolved from what?The romans Latin; 2,000 years ago(450 AD)33
7939971503Romance branch includes...Spanish, Portuguese, French, Italian, Romanian, romunch, catalunch34
7939971504Vulgar LatinRoman soldiers spoke this35
7939971505"Proto" indo euroPre history; before written language36
79399715062 theories of the hearth of indo European1.37
7939971507Sinto- Tibetan (east and southeast Asian families)2nd largest family after indo euro - 3/4 of all Chinese speak Mandarin Chinese language written as ideograms - austronesian- 6% of world speaks this;Indonesia= Indonesian and Javanese - Austro- asiatic- Vietnantese - tai Kadai- Thailand - Japanese - Korean38
7939971508Middle East and Central Asia families- Afro- asiatic- Aratic, Hebrew, Somali, berlea - Altaic- Turkish, Uzbek, Mongolian, Kazakh - Uralic- estoniam, Finland, hungeriam39
7939971509African language familiesNiger- Congo, sub Saharan; most important at 95%. Swahili- literary history - nico- Saharam - Khoisam40
7939971510extinct languageNo longer spoken nor read41
7939971511language revivalsHebrew and keltic42
7939971512AraimicReligious language thought of to have made Arabic - 1948 Israel43
7939971513Ben huddaStarted the revival of Hebrew44
7939971514multilingual statesBelgium and Switzerland45
7939971515Isolated languageBasque; located in Spain and France mountains46
7939971516IslandicIceland; least changed in the Germanic branch47
7939971517Lingual FrancaExamples are airline industry, internet, business/trade48
7939971518PidgeonA mashup of two languages49
7944912237Minor Romance languages...Romanian, Romansh, Catalan, Sardinian, and ladino50
7944912244Francien51
7944912238Language familyA collection of languages related through a commen ancestral language that existed long before recorded history52
7944912239Indo Iranian languages are clustered where?South Asia53
7944912240Romance languages are clustered where?Southwestern Europe and Latin America54
7944912241Germanic languages are clustered where?Northwestern Europe and north America55
7944912242Balto Slavic languages are clustered where?Eastern Europe56
7944912243Language groupA collection of languages within a branch that share a commen origin in the relatively recent past and display relatively few differences in grammar and vocabulary57

AP Language, Test Study 5 Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
7124979360RepetitionThe reiteration of a word or phrase for emphasis0
7124980796RhetoricThe art and logic of a written or spoken argument to persuade, to analyze, or to expose1
7124982579SatireTo ridicule or mock ideas, persons, events, or doctrines2
7124983325SyllogismA form of deductive reasoning in which pieces of evidence are used to create a new conclusion3
7124984102SyntaxThe way words are arranged in a sentence4
7124984478TensionA feeling excitement and expectation the reader or audience feels because of the conflict, mood, or atmosphere of the work5
7124985063UnderstatementWhen an author assigns less significance to an event or thing than it deserves6
7124985900ZeugmaWhen a word is used with two adjacent words in the same construction, but only makes literal sense with one of them7
7124988907assertiona declaration or statement8
7124989372cogentconvincing; reasonable9

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