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AP Language Vocabulary Unit 13 Flashcards

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5364933181EsotericUnderstood by only a select few0
5364933719EulogyHigh praise for a deceased person1
5364934696EuphemismUse of an indirect or pleasant expression in place of one that is harsh2
5364935590evanescentGradually disappearing; fleeting; lasting only for a short while3
5364936981ExacerbateTo make a situation worse; irritate4
5364938007ExemplaryServing as a model5
5364939236ExpedientUseful; advantageous6
5364940015ExpediteTo make easy and quick; to speed up7
5364940476ExpungeTo erase; to remove completely8
5364941220ExtolTo praise highly9

AP Language Vocabulary Unit 12 Flashcards

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9080695819Aestheticadjective 1. pertaining to beauty 2. sensitive or responsive to beauty S: artistic0
9080695820Defunctadjective 1. no longer in existence or functioning, dead S: extinct, nonexistent A: alive, extant1
9080695821Discomfitverb 1. to frustrate, thwart, or defeat 2. to confuse, perplex, or embarrass S: nonplus, disconcert, foil2
9080695822Espouseverb 1. to take up and support 2. to become attached to, adopt 3. to marry S: embrace, wed A: repudiate, disavow, renounce3
9080695823Fetishnoun 1. an object believed to have magical powers 2. an object of unreasoning devotion or reverence S: charm, talisman, obsession4
9080695824Gregariousadjective 1. living together in a herd or group 2. sociable, seeking the company of others S: outgoing, extroverted A: aloof, introverted, reclusive5
9080695825Haplessadjective 1. marked by a persistent absence of good luck S: unlucky, ill-started, unfortunate A: lucky, charmed, fortunate6
9080695826Impeccableadjective 1. faultless, beyond criticism or blame S: flawless, spotless, immaculate A: grimy, soiled, spotted, sullied7
9080695827Importuneverb 1. to trouble with demands 2. to beg for insistently S: implore, entreat, dun, tax8
9080695828Interpolateverb 1. to insert between other parts or things 2. to present as an addition or correction S: inject, interpose, introduce9
9080695829Irreparableadjective 1. incapable of being repaired or rectified S:irremediate A: remediate, fixable, reversible10
9080695830Laconicadjective 1. concise, using few words S: terse, succinct, pithy, compact A: garrulous, prolix, loquacious, verbose11
9080695831Languishverb 1. to become weak, feeble, or dull 2. to droop 3. to be depressed or dispirited 4. to suffer neglect S: flag, wilt, fade, pine12
9080695832Mendaciousadjective 1. given to lying or deception 2. untrue S: untruthful, false A: truthful, veracious13
9080695833Nadirnoun 1. the lowest point S: rock bottom A: apex, pinnacle, zenith14
9080695834Omnipresentadjective 1. present in all places at all times S: ubiquitous, ever- present15
9080695835Perfunctoryadjective 1. done in a superficial or halfhearted manner 2. without interest or enthusiasm S: slapdash, cursory, shallow A: thorough, assiduous, diligent, meticulous16
9080695836Plaintiveadjective 1. expressive of sorrow or woe, melancholy S: sad, doleful, lugubrious A: cheerful, blithe, joyous, merry17
9080695837Requiteverb 1. to make suitable repayment, as for a kindness, service, or favor 2. to make retaliation, as for an injury or wrong 3. to reciprocate S: reimburse, recompense, avenge18
9080695838Tantamountadjective 1. equivalent, having the same meaning, value, or effect S: indistinguishable form19

AP Psych Language Flashcards

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8394804383phonemessmallest unit of sound0
8394804384MorphemesSmallest unit of meaning1
8394804385syntaxthe rules for word order and sentence construction2
8394804386SemanticsMeaning of words and sentences3
8394804387surface structurethe literal ordering of words in a sentence4
8394804388deep structurethe underlying meaning of a sentence5
8394804389Conceptsa mental grouping of similar objects, events, ideas, or people6
8394804390prototypea mental image or best example of a category7
8394804391Degree of Category Membershipyou use information at hand to determine the most sensible category8
8394804392Hill Climbingalways moving forward9
8394804393Subgoalsbreak problem into manageable pieces10
8394804394Working BackwardsStart with a solution/goal and figure out how to get there11
8394804395Representativenessthe new situation is judged on the basis of its resemblance to a stereotypical model12
8394804396SetTendency to solve problems in the same way over and over13
8394804397functional fixednessuse an object for what it is designed for14
8394804398divergent thinkingthinking that produces many solutions to the same problem15
8394804399convergent thinkingthinking that produces the single best solution to a problem16
8394804400compensatory modela rational decision-making model in which choices are systematically evaluated on various criteria17
8394804401non-compensatory modela simple decision model in which negative information leads to rejection of the option18
8394804402reductive reasoningattempt to draw conclusions from a set of initial assertions19
8394804403inductive reasoningspecific to general20
8394804404Anthropomorphismattributing human characteristics to an animal or inanimate object (Personification)21

AP Language and Composition Year 2017-2018 Flashcards

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9366433752cumulative sentencebegins with an independent clause and builds (accumulates or piles up) on the idea with concrete or subjective details. .0
9366433753independent clauseexpresses a complete thought and can stand alone as a sentence. Has both a subject and a verb.1
9366433754dependent clauseA group of words that contain a subject and a verb but does NOT express a complete thought2
9366433755staccato sentenceOne to two words3
9366433756telegraphic sentenceA sentence shorter than five words in length (more than two words)4
9366433757short sentenceapproximately five to ten words in length5
9366433758medium sentenceapproximately 15 to 20 words in length6
9366433759Long and involved sentenceAbout 30 words or more in length7
9366433760EthosEstablishes Credibility8
9366433761PathosAppeal to emotion9
9366433762LogosAppeal to logic and reason using facts, statistics, etc.10
9366433763Metaphor (trope)comparison of two dissimilar things as if it IS11
9366433764Personification (trope)Giving human characteristics to inanimate objects12
9366433765Hyperbole (trope)A figure of speech that uses exaggeration to express strong emotion, make a point, or evoke humor13
9366433766Simile (trope)comparison of things using "like" or "as"14
9366433767rhetorical question (scheme)a question that expects no direct answer; used to draw attention to a point15
9366433768synecdoche (trope)A figure of speech in which a part is substituted for the whole.16
9366433769diction (trope)A writer's or speaker's choice of words17
9366433770abstract diction (trope)idea words and feelings NOT tangible and DO NOT appeal to the senses18
9366433771concrete diction (trope)provide more tangible details that appeal to the senses19
9366433772denotation (trope)The dictionary definition of a word20
9366433773connotation (trope)the emotional charge behind a word due to experience or society norms21
9366433774parallelism (scheme)repetition of the same grammatical structure22
9366433775anaphora (scheme)repetition of the same group of words at the beginning of successive clauses23
9366433776tropeArtful diction; the use of language in a nonliteral way; also called a figure of speech.24
9366433777Euphoniouswords that are pleasing in sound25
9366433778Cacophonousharsh sounding words26
9366433779schemeartful sentence structure (syntax)27
9366433780Parallelism of words (scheme)repetition of the same grammatical structures in words in a sentence (Example: All of the running, jumping and screaming made the students overstimulated."28
9366433781Parallelism of phrases (scheme)repetition of the same grammatical structures in phrases (Example: This task can be done individually, in pairs, or in groups of four.)29
9366433782Epistrophe (scheme)the repetition of a word or group of words at the end of successive clauses or sentences30
9366433783Antithesis (scheme)a type of parallelism used to show contrast.31
9366433784Rhetorical Modemethod of presenting a subject through writing or speech (ex: argumentation, narration, etc.)32
9366433785Contextthe historical, social, educational, environmental, etc. situation that prompts the speaker or writer to address the topic33
9366433786ColloquialCharacteristic of ordinary conversation rather than formal speech or writing34
9366433787JargonSpecial words, details, or expressions that are used by a particular profession or group (specialization); may be difficult for others to understand35
9366433788Shiftchange position or place; or approach of the speaker or writer36
9366433789Levels of Dictionformal / informal / neutral37
9366433790Illustrationuse of detailed examples to make abstract or general ideas or concepts more concrete and specific. specific cases or stories which make an argument more believable.38
9366433791Descriptiona detailed snapshot of an individual or situation (like describing feelings or the beauty of a flower). May evoke emotion39
9366433792Narrationinvolves telling a story with a beginning, middle, and end. usually a main characters(individuals)/location a lesson or moral. establishes credibility and evokes emotion40
9366433793DefinitionProvides the specific meaning of a term or idea. provides the nature or limits41
9366433794Comparison/Contrastidentify similarities/differences.42
9366433795Cause/EffectRefers to a direct relationship between events Answers the question "why did something happen, and/or what results did it have?"43
9366433796Division/ClassificationSort ideas or information into categories make connections between topics that might seem unrelated (often uses definition)44
9366433797Argumentationseries of statements leading to a logical conclusion Offers numerous reasons for or against the topic may outline or begin with a problem and then offer a solution45
9366433798Process Analysisto "break into parts" begins with a complex situation, argument, or text and breaks down the idea into separate parts46
9366433799Individuala single entity (person in writing)47
9366433800Conflictthe problems or issues an individual may face48
9366433801Social Stereotypesgeneralization or conclusion drawn based on bias or personal experience/beliefs49
9366433802ImageryDescriptive or figurative language in a literary work; the use of language to create sensory impressions.50
9366433803Objective Detailsdetails that focus on facts51
9366433804Technical Detailsare connected to a specific subject or group of individuals - details necessary52
9366433805Subjective DetailsDetails that reveal the author's feelings, attitudes, or judgements.53
9366433806Figurative Imagethe use of language in presenting ideas, objects, etc. in a way that appeals to your senses54
9366433807Positionhow close the writer is to the action in time and space55
9366433808ToneA writer's attitude toward his or her subject matter revealed through diction, figurative language, and organization.56
9366433809Rhetorical Strategy...a device that uses words to convey meaning or to persuade57
9366433810Plotsequence of events in a selection58
9366433811Pacespeed at which the writer recounts events59
9366433812rhetorical trianglethe rhetorical situation60
9366433813audience (rhetorical triangle)is complex and varied61
9366433814Context (rhetorical triangle)the situation that prompts the speaker or writer (Historical, Cultural, Social, Environmental, etc.)62
9366433815Message (rhetorical triangle)depends on context and audience63
9366433816juxtapositionWhen two or more words, phrases, images, ideas are placed close together or side by side for comparison or contrast or any other desired effect.64
9366433817metonymya figure of speech in which a topic is replaced with a concept that is closely related to it65
9366433818periodic sentencesentence whose main clause is withheld until the end66
9366433819alliterationRepetition of initial consonant sounds67
9366433820ironya literary device that uses contradictory statements or situations to reveal a reality different from what appears to be true68
9366433821erotemaasking a rhetorical question to the reader as a transition or as a thought provoking tool before proceeding69
9366433822hypophoraconsists of raising one or more questions and then proceeding to answer them, usually at some length70
9366433823litotesunderstatement often by using double negatives or simply negating something (she is not a beauty queen)71
9366433824meiosisa type of understatement often used as sarcasm or to belittle or dismiss something ; gives impression that something is less important than it is or it should be; intentionally leaving out information72
9366433825allusionA reference to a well-known person, place, event, literary work, or work of art73
9366433826paradoxa statement or proposition that seems contradictory or absurd but in reality expresses truth74
9366433827synesthesiadescribing one kind of sensation in terms of another ("a loud color", "a sweet sound")75
9366433828anastropheinversion of the natural or usual order of words (Yoda speak)76
9366433829asyndentona construction in which elements are presented in a series without conjunctions77
9366433830antimetabolerepetition of words in reverse order78
9366433831polysyndentonthe deliberate use of many conjunctions79
9366433832antecedentthe word, phrase, or clause referred to by a pronoun80
9366433833EnumerationListing items or details in order81
9366433834interrogativeputs a thought into a question82
9366433835imperativegives a command - authoritative83
9366433836declarativeputs a thought in the form of a declaration, opinion, belief, or assertion84
9366433837exclamatoryexpresses a strong emotion85
9366433838simple sentencea sentence with one independent clause Ex: The children played in the snow.86
9366433839enthymemea syllogism in which the major premise is unstated and widely known and/or accepted87
9366433840syllogisma form of deductive reasoning consisting of a major premise, minor premise, and a conclusion88
9366433841warrantan underlying assumption or basic principle that connects data and claim; often implied rather than explicit89
9366433842complex sentencea sentence with one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses Ex: Ethan was aware that, in regards to the important question of surgical intervention, the female opinion of the neighborhood was divided, some glorying in the prestige conferred by operations while others shunned them as indelicate.90
9366433843compound sentencea sentence with two or more independent clauses joined by a conjunction. Ex. Her pleadings still came to him between short sobs, but he no longer heard what she was saying.91
9366433844compound-complex sentencea sentence with two or more independent clauses and one or more dependent clauses ex: He bent down, feeling in the obscurity for the glassy slide worn by preceding coasters, and placed the runners carefully between the edges.92
9366433845onomatopoeiaA word that imitates the sound it represents.93
9366433846counterargumenta challenge to a position; an opposing argument94
9366433847rebuttalrefutation; response with contrary evidence95
9366433848backingshows the logic used in the warrant is realistic in theory; doesn't necessarily prove the claim but rather just supports the warrant96
9366433849deductive reasoninginference by reasoning from the general to the specific97
9366433850inductive reasoningthe process of reasoning from the specific to the general; going from specific observations to a conclusion; observations are logical and supports conclusion but does not necessarily ensure the conclusion98
9366433851claiman assertion (belief), usually supported by evidence99
9366433852claim of facta claim that asserts the factual reality of something; can be proven or verified by data100
9366433853claim of cause and effecta claim that focuses on the connections between events and outcomes101
9366433854claim of valuea claim maintaining that something is good or bad, beneficial or detrimental, or another evaluation criterion102
9366433855claim of policya claim maintaining that a course of action should or should not be taken, describes a problem and suggests and organizational way to solve it103
9366433856claim of definitionclaiming what something is, what it is like, or how it is interpreted Answer questions about how to define something or classify it104
9366433857Toulmin Methodeffective way of getting to how and why levels of the arguments we read (includes claim/qualifier, data, warrant, backing, and rebuttal)105
9366433858Classical Modela six part approach to making an argument that includes a section of each of the following: exordium (introduction), narration (background information), proposition (thesis), confirmation (proof), refutation (addressing counterarguments), and peroration (conclusion)106

Ap language chapter 1-3 Flashcards

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7550617565RhetoricDefined by Aristotle as "the faculty of obersving in any given case the available means of persuasion" in other words it is the art of finding ways to persuade an audience0
7550637750AudienceThe listener, viewer, or reader of a text. Most texts have multiple audiences1
7550643179ConcessionAn acknowledgement that an opposing argument may be true or reasonable. In a strong argument it is usually accompanied by a refutation challenging the opposing argument2
7550670067ConnotationReading or associations readers have with a word beyond its dictionary definition, denotation. Are usually positive or negative and they can greatly affect the authors tone3
7550683792ContextThe circumstances, atmosphere, attitudes and events surrounding a text4
7550689416CounterargumentA opposing argument to the one a writer is putting forward. Rather than ignoring a counterargument a good writer will usually address it through a process of concession and refutation5
7550749862EthosSpeaker appeals to ethos to demonstrate that they are credible and trustworthy to speak on a topic. It can be established by both who you are and what you say.6
7550759266LogosAppeal to reason by offering clear ideas using specific details, examples, facts, statistics, or expert testimonys to pack them up; involves claim and evidence7
7550771087PathosSpeaker appeals to it to emotionally motivate their audience. Might play on audiences values, desires, and hopes or fears and prejudice8
7550779074OccasionThe time and place a speech is given or written9
7550794219PersonaThe face or character that a speaker shows to his or her audience (how Lou Gehrig presents himself as a common man who is modest and thankful for the opportunities he had)10
7550807107PolemicAn aggressive argument that tries to establish the superiority of one opinion over all others. Generally do not concede that opposing opinions have any merit. Most of the time over a controversial topic like politics or religion11
7550832542PropagandaThe spread of ideas and information to further a cause. In its negative sense it is the use of rumors, lies, disinformation, and scare tactics in order to damage or promote a cause12
7550841834PurposeThe goal the speaker wants to achieve13
7550844211RefutationA denial of the validity of the opposing argument. Often follows a concession14
7550858397Rhetoric appealsTeqniques used to persuade an audience by emphasizing what they find most important or compelling. Ethos, pathos, logos15
7550864508SoapsStands for subject, occasion. Audience, purpose, and speaker, to help remember the elements that make up the rhetorical situation16
7550875479SpeakerPerson or group who creates a text17
7550879573SubjectThe topic of a text. What the text is about18
7550882259TextAny cultural product that can be read, not just consumed and comprehended but investigated. Ex: art, photos, fiction and nonfiction, fashion19
7550897887AlliterationRepetition of the same sound beginning several words or syllables in a sequence20
7550905983Let us go forth to lead the land we loveAlliteration21
7550908581AllusionBrief reference to a person, event, or place or to a work of art22
7550920402Let both sides unite to heed in all corners of the earth the command of IsaiahAllusion23
7550922627AnaphoraRepitition of words or phrases at the beginning of successive phrases, clauses, or lines24
7550938953Not as a call to bear arms, though arms we need- not as a call to battle, though embattled we areAnaphora25
7550940943AntimetaboleRepition of words in reverse order26
7550965777Ask not what your country can do for you: ask what you can do for your countryAntimetable27
7550989764If you can't be with the one you love, love the one your withAntimetable28
7551003605AntithesisOpposition or contrast of ideas or words in a parallel construction29
7551013727We shall support any friend, oppose any foeAntithesis30
7551032744That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankindAntithesis31
7551034860Archaic dictionOld fashioned or outdated choice of words32
7551054488Beliefs for which our forebears foughtArchaic diction33
7551058482AsyndetonOmission of conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses, or words34
7551077487We shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to ensure the survival and the success of libertyAsyndeton35
7551086799Cumulative sentenceSentence that completes the main idea at the beginning of the sentence and then builds and adds on36
7551110115Hortative sentenceSentence that exhorts, urges, entreaty, implores, or calls to action; urging someone37
7551127960Let both sides explore what problems unite us instead of belaboring those problems which divide usHortative sentence38
7551134455Slow down your going to fastHortative sentence39
7551139678Imperative sentenceSentence used to command or enjoin; necessary action40
7551176359Ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for our countryImperative sentence41
7551184355InversionInverted order of words in a sentence(act of revering order)42
7551202442JuxtapositionPlacement of two things closely together to emphasize similarities or differences43
7551223276OxymoronParadoxical juxtaposition of words that seem to contradict one another44
7551226592Peaceful revolutionOxymoron45
7551228294ParallelsimSimilarity of structure in a pair or series of related words, phrases, or clauses46
7551264432Let both sides explore.... let both sides for the first time, formulate series and precise proposals... let both sides seek to invoke.... let both sides unite to heedParallelism47
7551269004Periodic sentenceSentence whose main clause is withheld until the end48
7551302009To that world assembly of sovereign states, the United Nations, our last best hope in an age where the instruments of war have far outpaced the instruments of peace, we renew of pledge of supportPeriodic sentence49
7551302010PersonificationAttribution of lifelike quality to an inanimate object or an idea50
7551307235Rhetorical questionFigure of speech in the form of a question posed for the rhetorical effect rather than for the purpose of getting a answer51
7551313966SynedocheFigure of speech that uses a part to represent a whole; refers to The Whole of a thing by the name of any of its one part52
7551343028In your hands, my fellow citizens, more than mine, will rest the final success of failure of our courseSynedoche53
7551343029ZeugmaUse of two different words in a grammatically similar way that produces different, often often incongruous meanings54
7551363542Ad hominemDiversion tactic of switching the argument from the issue at hand to the character of the other speaker55
7551372649Ad populum (bandwagon appeal)When evidence boils down to everyone is doing it so it must be a good thing to do56
7551382511You should vote to elect Rachel Johnson- she has a strong lead in the pollsAd populum57
7551384428Appeal to false authorityOccurs when someone on tv who has no expertise to speak on a issue is cited as an authority58
7551395847ArgumentA process of reasoned inquiry; a persuasive discourse resulting in a coherent and considered movement from a claim to a conclusion59
7551407758Toulmin modelApproach to analyzing and constructing arguments using data, claim, and a warrant60
7551418686Toulmin model outlineBecause (evidence) therefore (claim) since (warrant) on account of (backing) unless (reservation)61
7551426771BackingConsists of further assurance or data with which the assumption lacks authority62
7551433425Begging the questionClaim is based on evidence or support that is in doubt. Your evidence assumes your claim is already true63
7551444252Circular reasoning (fallacies of insufficieny)Writer repeats the claim as a way to provide evidence64
7551447328ClaimAn assertion of a proposition. It states the arguments main idea or position. Differs from a topic or subject in that it has to be arguable65
7551455561Claim of factAsserts that something is true or not( to make arguable use questionable words , make facts questionable, and take a position)66
7551471817Claim of policyProposes a change (to make a argument begin with the definition of problem -claim of fact- and explain why that problem is a issue -claim of value- and the. Explain the change that needs to happen - claim of policy-67
7551489285Claim of valueArgues that something is good bad right wrong ( there may be personal judgements or more objective evaluations based on external criteria )68
7551502552Classical orationFive part argument structure used by classical rhetorics (introduction, narration, confirmation, refutation, conclusion)69
7551520759IntroductionIntroduces reader to subject under discussion70
7551525092NarrationProvides factual and background information on the subject at hand or establishes why the subject needs addressing71
7551532130ConfirmationMajor part of text and includes the proof needed to make writers case72
7551536908RefutationAddresses the counterargument73
7551539522ConclusionBrings essay to satisfying close74
7551541629Closed thesisStatement of the main idea of the argument that also previews the major points the writer intends to make; short essay75
7551550140Open thesisDoes not list all the points the writer intends to make; longer essay76
7551557213Either or (false dillima fallacy)When speaker presents two extreme choices as the only posssible choices when there could be more options77
7551562073Faulty analogyWhen an analogy compares two things that are non comparable; big difference between two topics being compared78
7551570733Hasty generalizationConclusion is reached off inadequate evidence; most of the time small statistics, broad claim, maybe a stereotype and not enough evidence. Also sometimes occurs when using person experience as evidence79
7551589483InductionWriter reasons from particulars to universals80
7551599448Exercise promoting weight lose and lowering stress means exercise contributes to better healthInduction81
7551601562DeductionReaches conclusion by starting with universal truth and applying it to a specific case. Usually demonstrated in the form of syllogism82
7551618039Exercise contributes to better health and yoga is a exercise so yoga contributes to better healthDeduction83
7551620641Post hocIt is not correct to always claim that something is the cause of something just because it happened earlier. Just because two events occurred close In time doesn't mean one event caused the other84
7551635485QualifierUses words like usually, probably, maybe , in most cases to make the claim less absolute85
7551644857RebuttalGives voice to possible objections86
7551647274ReservationExplains terms and conditions necessities by the qualifier87
7551651396WarrantExpresses the assumption shared by the speaker and audience88
7551656273SyllogismA logical structure that uses major premise and minor premise to reach a necessary conclusion89
7551663630Straw manSpeaker chooses deliveralty poor or oversimplified examples in order to ridicule and refute an idea. Substituting a persons actualposition with a exaggerated or misrepresented position90
7551684182Red herringDeliberate attempt to redirect the argument to another issue the person can respond to better91
7551695487Ways of reasoningInduction and deduction92
7551699383Counterargument thesisSummary of counterargument uses qualifiers like although or but and comes before the writers opinion93

AP Human Geography Language Flashcards

For Mr. Holland's AP Human Geography class at Parkview

Terms : Hide Images
7997952143Agricultural Theoryfarming peoples of Anatolia (present Turkey) moved slowly westward and north into Europe, spreading the Proto-Indo-European language0
7997952144Conquest Theorythe belief that from a Kurgan hearth, early Proto-Indo-European speakers diffused onward on horseback to Europe and to India overpowering the original inhabitants1
7997952145Creolized Languagea language that results from the mixing of a colonizer's language with the indigenous language of the people being dominated2
7997952146Dialectslocal or regional characteristics of a language with pronunciation differences and a distinctive grammar and vocabulary3
7997952147Isoglossa line on a dialect map marking the boundary between different accents, word choices, or other linguistic features4
7997952148LanguageThe method of human communication, either spoken or written, consisting of the use of words in a structured and conventional way5
7997952149Language Convergencethe blending of two languages into one resulting from the consistent spatial interaction of peoples with different languages6
7997952150Language Divergenceoccurs when a lack of spatial interaction among speakers of a language breaks the language into dialects and then eventually new languages7
7997952151Language Familygroup of languages with a shared origin but fairly distant origin (a long, long, long time ago). Linguists agree on the common origin8
7997952152Language GroupA collection of languages within a branch that share a common origin in the relatively recent past (a long time ago) and display relatively few differences in grammar and vocabulary9
7997952153Language Replacementwhen languages of traditional, numerically smaller, and technologically less advanced people are replaced, or greatly modified, by the languages of Invaders10
7997952154Language Subfamilya collection of languages related through a common ancestor that existed several thousand years ago (a long, long time ago)11
7997952155Lingua Francaa common agreed language of business in an area where people speak different languages12
7997952156Monolingual Statescountries in which only one language is spoken13
7997952157Multilingual Statescountries in which more than one language is in use. Often times there is conflict between different cultural groups14
7997952158Official Languagethe actual language(s) adopted for use by the government for the conduct of business and publication of documents15
7997952159Preliterate Societiespeople who speak their language, but do not write it16
7997952160Sound Shiftslight change in a word across languages within a subfamily or through a language family from the present backward toward its origin17
7997952161Standard Languagethe "form" of a language with specific grammar rules and word choice that is used for official government business, education, and mass communications. This form is determined by those who have power.18
7997952162Toponymythe place names of a region or, especially, the study of place names19

AP Language Vocab Set 9 Flashcards

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5392986197capitulate (verb)to give up; to surrender (under pre-arranged conditions); to stop resisting; to yield0
5392989674cavil (verb)to object when there is little or no reason to do so; to resort to trivial faultfinding; to carp; to quibble1
5392993501chicanery (noun)deception by artful subterfuge or sophistry; deception; fraud; trickery; wiliness2
5392998694corroborate (verb)to support a statement; to confirm; to bolster; to substantiate; to confirm; to validate3
5393002655credence (noun)belief in reports or testimony of another; acceptance as true; plausibility; credibility4
5393006725credulous (adj)too ready to believe; easily deceived; easily convinced; trusting; naive5
5393011949condescend (verb)to descend voluntarily to the level (regarded as lower) of the person one is dealing with; to stoop to level considered inappropriate to one's dignity; to deal with others in a proud or haughty way6
5393019400dereliction (noun)neglect of one's duty; willful negligence; abandonment; desertion7
5393022359debacle (noun)an overwhelming defeat; a rout; a stunning ruinous collapse; a disaster; a complete failure8
5393026973emulate (verb)to strive to equal or excel; to rival successfully; to imitate or copy with a view toward equaling or surpassing9
5393034229"robur" meaning strengthetymological clue of corroborate10
5393036383corroborationcorroborate as a noun11
5393040777corroborativecorroborate as an adj12
5393047102"credere" meaning to trust or to believeetymological clue of credence13
5393051193"credere" meaning to trust or to believeetymological clue of credulous14
5393054024credulousness; credulitycredulous as a noun15
5393056058"de" meaning away from & "relinquere" meaning to leaveetymological clue of dereliction16
5393064318incredulousantonym of credulous17
5393068033"debacle" meaning breakupetymological clue of debacle18
5393069670emulationemulate as a noun19
5393069671emulousemulate as an adj20
5393077447deigndo something that one considers to be beneath one's dignity (condescend)21
5393080839vouchsafegive or grant something to someone in a gracious or condescending manner22

AP Language & Composition Terms! Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
6816462291Red HerringA red herring is the introduction of an irrelevant or random point into an argument mean to change the subject.0
6816462364Ad hominemIn an argument, this is an attack on the person rather than on the opponent's ideas. It comes from the Latin meaning "turn to the man."1
6816462365Tu quoqueDismissing someone's argument because he or she is being hypocritical.2
6816462366Appeal to False 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.3
6816462367StrawmanMisrepresenting or exaggerating someone else's argument to make it easier to attack.4
6816462369Circular ReasoningA logical fallacy in which the conclusion is hidden within the premises. Typically called "circular reasoning." From Plato's Euthyphro - something is pious because it is loved by the gods. That which is loved by the gods is pious.5
6816462370Loaded QuestionAsking a question that has an assumption built into it so that it cannot be answered without making one appear guilty. "Do you still beat your girlfriend?"6
6816462372BandwagonA fallacy which assumes that because something is popular, it is therefore good, correct, or desirable.7
6816462373Either-OrWhen two alternative states are presented as the only possibilities, when in fact more possibilities exist.8
6816462295Hasty GeneralizationsGeneralizing based on a small or poor sample population.9
6816462296Weak AnalogyAn analogy is a comparison. They can be weak because no two things are alike.10
6816462297PropagandaAppeal to Fear Appeal to Pity Bandwagon Appeal to Tradition Appeal to Flattery11
6816462374Slippery SlopeA fallacy that assumes that taking a first step will lead to subsequent steps that cannot be prevented.12
6816462386Genetic FallacyCondemning an argument because of where it began, how it began, or who began it. Similar in form to ad-hominem.13
6816462393Non-SequiturLatin for "does not follow." An argument in which the conclusion does not follow from the premises.14
6816462395Post Hoc Ergo Propter HocLatin for "after this therefore because of this." Arguing that because something follows something else it necessarily is the cause.15
6816462298audiencethe listener, viewer, or reader of a text. Most texts are likely to have multiple _____________s.16
6816462299concessionan acknowledgement that an opposing argument may be true or reasonable. In a strong argument, a ______________ is usually accompanied by a refutation challenging the validity of the opposing argument.17
6816462300connotationmeanings or associations that readers have with a word beyond its dictionary definition, or denotation. ______________s are usually positive or negative, and they can greatly affect the author's tone.18
6816462301contextThe circumstances, atmosphere, attitudes, and events surrounding a text.19
6816462302counterargumentan opposing argument to the one a writer is putting forward. Rather than ignoring a ______________,a strong writer will usually address it through the process of concession and refutation.20
6816462303ethosGreek for "character." Speakers appeal to reason, by offering clear, rational ideas and using specific details, examples, facts, statistics, or expert testimony to back them up.21
6816462304logosGreek for "embodied thought." Speakers appeal to _________, or reason, by offering clear, rational ideas and using specific details, examples, facts, statistics, or expert testimony to back them up.22
6816462305occasionthe time and place a speech is given or a piece is written.23
6816462306pathosGreek for "suffering or "experience". Speakers appeal to the _______________ to emotionally motivate their audience. More specific appeals to ______________ might play on the audience's values, desires, and hopes, on the one hand, or hears and prejudices, on the other.24
6816462307personaGreek for "mask". The face or character that a speaker shows to his or her audience.25
6816462308polemicGreek for "hostile". An aggressive argument that tries to establish the superiority of one opinion over all others. ____________s generally do not concede that opposing opinions have any merit.26
6816462309propagandaThe spread of ideas and information to further a cause. In its negative sense, ___________________ is the use of rumors, lies, disinformation, and scare tactics in order to damage or promote a cause.27
6816462310purposeThe goal the speaker wants to achieve.28
6816462311refutationA denial of the validity of an opposing argument. In order to sound reasonable, ______________s often follow a concession that acknowledges that an opposing argument may be true or reasonable.29
6816462312rhetoricAs 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.30
6816462313rhetorical appealsRhetorical techniques used to persuade an audience by emphasizing what they find most important or compelling. The three major __________ _______________ are to ethos, logos, and pathos31
6816462314rhetorical triangle (Aristotelian triangle)A diagram that illustrates the interrelationship among the speaker, audience, and subject in determining a text.32
6816462315SOAPSSubject, Occasion, Audience, Purpose, and Speaker. The various elements that make the rhetorical situation.33
6816462316speakerThe person or group who creates a text.34
6816462317subjectThe topic of a text. What a text is about.35
6816462318textGenerally means the written word: includes fiction, nonfiction, poetry, political cartoons, fine art, photography, performances, fashion, cultural trends, and much more.36
6816462319allegoryThe device of using character and/or story elements symbolically to represent an abstraction in additional to the literal meaning. An author may intend the characters to personify an abstraction like hope or freedom. They usually deal with moral truth or a generalization about human existence. (ex: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis is a religious allegory with Aslan as Christ and Edmund as Judas. )37
6816462320alliterationThe repetition of sounds, especially initial consonant sounds in two or more neighboring words. (ex: she sells sea shells). The repetition can reinforce meaning, unify ideas, supply a musical sounds, and/or echo the sense of the passage.38
6816462321allusionA direct or indirect reference to something which is presumably commonly known, such as an event, book, myth, place, or work of art. These can be historical, literary, religious, topical, or mythical.39
6816462322ambiguityThe multiple meanings, either intentional or unintentional, of a word, phrase, sentence, or passage.40
6816462323analogyA similarity or comparison between two different things or the relationship between them. They can make writing more vivid, imaginative, or intellectually engaging.41
6816462324antithesisThe opposition or contrast of ideas or words in parallel construction. "Support any friend, oppose any foe"42
6816462325anaphoraRepetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive phrases, clauses, or lines. "not as a call to bear arms... not as a call to battle"43
6816462326antimetaboleRepetition of words in reverse order "With my mind on my money and my money on my mind"44
6816462327asyndetonOmission of conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses, or words. "We came, we saw, we conquered"45
6816462328apostropheA figure of speech that directly addresses an absent or imaginary person or a personified abstraction (love/liberty). An address to someone/ something that cannot answer. The effect could add familiarity or emotional intensity.46
6816462329atmosphereThe 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. Even such elements as a description of the weather can contribute to the _____________. Frequently _____________ foreshadows events. Perhaps it can create a mood.47
6816462330Archaic dictionOld fashioned or outdated choice of words. "beastly, blest, deuced"48
6816462331caricaturea verbal description, the purpose of which is to exaggerate or distort, for comic effect, a person's distinctive physical features or other characteristics.49
6816462332colloquial/colloquialismThe use of slang or informalities in speech or writing. Not generally acceptable for formal writing, these give a work a conversational, familiar tone. These types of expressions in writing include local or regional dialects.50
6816462333conceitA fanciful expression, usually in the form of an extended metaphor or surprising analogy between seemingly dissimilar objects. This displays intellectual cleverness as a result of the unusual comparison being made.51
6816462334connotationThe non-literal, associative meaning of a word; the implied meaning.52
6816462335denotationThe strict, literal, dictionary definition of a word, devoid of any emotion, attitude, or color. (Ex: the __________ of a knife would be a utensil used to cut; the connotation of a knife might be fear, violence, anger, foreboding, etc.)53
6816462336dictionRelated to style, diction refers to the writer's word choices, especially with regard to their correctness, clearness, or effectiveness. On exam: describe an author's diction (for example, formal or informal, ornate or plain) and understand the ways in which diction can complement the author's purpose. Diction, combined with syntax, figurative language, literary devices, etc., creates an author's style.54
6816462337didacticFrom the Greek, didactic literally means "teaching." Didactic words have the primary aim of teaching or instructing, especially the teaching of moral or ethical principles.55
6816462338euphemismFrom the Greek for "good speech," euphemisms are a more agreeable or less offensive substitute for a generally unpleasant word or concept. The euphemism may be used to adhere to standards of social or political correctness or to add humor or ironic understatement. (ex: saying "earthly remains" rather than "corpse")56
6816462339extended metaphorA metaphor developed at great length, occurring frequently in or throughout a work.57
6816462340figurative languageWriting or speech that is not intended to carry literal meaning and is usually meant to be imaginative and vivid.58
6816462341figure of speechA device used to produce figurative language. Many compare dissimilar things. They include apostrophe, hyperbole, irony, metaphor, oxymoron, paradox, personification, simile, synecdoche, and understatement.59
6816462342hyperboleA figure of speech using deliberate exaggeration or overstatement. (The lit eral Greek meaning is "overshoot.") These often have a comic effect; however, a serious effect is also possible. Often, these produces irony. The opposite is an understatement.60
6816462343imageryThe sensory details/ figurative language used to describe, arouse emotion, or represent abstractions. On a physical level, ______ uses terms related to the five senses: visual, auditory, tactile, gustatory, and olfactory. On a broader and deeper level, however, ______ can represent more than one thing. For example, a rose may present visual imagery while also representing the color in a woman's cheeks and/or symbolizing some degree of perfection. An author may use complex imagery while simultaneously employing other figures of speech, especially metaphor and simile. In addition, this term can apply to the total of all the images in a work. On the AP language exam, pay attention to how an author creates imagery and to the effect of this imagery.61
6816462344invectivean emotionally violent, verbal condemnation or attack using strong, abusive language. (For example, in Henry IV, Part I, Prince Hal calls the large character of Falstaff "this sanguine coward, this bedpresser, this horseback breaker, this huge hill of flesh.") *we didn't learn this in AP lang, I just thought it could be a useful term62
6816462345IronyThe contrast between what is stated explicitly and what is meant, or the difference between what appears to be and what is actually true. This is often used to create poignancy or humor.63
6816462346rhetorical questionFigure of speech in the form of a question posed for effect rather than for the purpose of getting an answer.64
6816462347synecdocheFigure of speech that uses a part to represent the whole "All hands on deck"65
6816462348zeugmaUse of two different words in a grammatically similar way that produces different, often incongruous, meanings "The farmers grew beans, corn, and bored." "You are free to execute your laws and your citizens as you see fit."66
6816462349juxtapositionPlacement of two things closely together to emphasize similarities or differences. "When it rains, it pours" "it was the best of times, it was the worst of times..."67
6816462350parallelismSimilarity of structure in a pair or series of related words, phrases, or clauses This can involve repetition of a grammatical element such as a preposition or verbal phrase. (example: "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of believe, it was the epoch of incredulity....") The effects of _________ are numerous, but frequently they act as an organizing force to attract the reader's attention, add emphasis and organization, or simply provide a musical rhythm.68
6816462351cumulative sentenceA type of sentence in which the main idea (independent clause) comes first, followed by dependent phrases and clauses. If a period were placed at the end of the independent clause, the clause would be a complete sentence. A work containing many loose sentences often seems informal, relaxed, or conversational. Generally, loose sentences create loose style. Example: I arrived at the San Diego airport after a long, bumpy ride and multiple delays. Could stop at: I arrived at the San Diego airport.69
6816462352metaphorA figure of speech using implied comparison of seemingly unlike things or the substitution of one for the other, suggesting some similarity. ___________s makes writing more vivid, imaginative, thought provoking, and meaningful.70
6816462353moodThe prevailing atmosphere or emotional aura of a work. Setting, tone, and events can affect the ________. ________ is similar to tone and atmosphere.71
6816462354paradoxA statement that appears to be self-contradictory or opposed to common sense but upon closer inspection contains some degree of truth or validity. (Think "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times....")72
6816462355satireA work that targets human vices and follies or social institutions and conventions for reform or ridicule. Regardless of whether or not the work aims to reform human behavior, _____ is best seen as a style of writing rather than a purpose for writing. It can be recognized by the many devices used effectively by the satirist: irony, wit, parody, caricature, hyperbole, understatement, and sarcasm. The effects of _______ are varied, depending on the writer's goal, but good _____, often humorous, is thought provoking and insightful about the human condition. Some modern satirists include Joseph73
6816462356style______ is a result of an evaluation of the choices an author makes in blending diction, syntax, figurative language, and other literary devices. We can analyze and describe an author's personal ______ and make judgments on how appropriate it is to the author's purpose. ______s can be called flowery, explicit, succinct, rambling, pretentious, commonplace, incisive, laconic, etc.74
6816462357syllogismAn instance of a form of reasoning in which a conclusion is drawn (whether validly or not) from two given or assumed propositions (premises), each of which shares a term with the conclusion, and shares a common or middle term not present in the conclusion (ex: all dogs are animals; all animals have four legs; therefore all dogs have four legs ).75
6816462358syntaxThe way an author chooses to join words into phrases, clauses, and sentences. It is similar to diction. You can differentiate the two by thinking of _________ as groups of words, while diction refers to individual words.76
6816462359toneSimilar to mood, ____ describes the author's attitude toward his material, the audience, or both. Some words describing ____ are playful, serious, businesslike, sarcastic, humorous, formal, ornate, sardonic, somber77
6816462360hortative (calls to action)What type of sentence is the following: "Let us go then, you and I, when the evening is spread out against the sky."78
6816462361imperative (commands)What type of sentence is the following: "Carpe diem. Seize the day, boys. Make your life extrodinary."79
6816462362invertedWhat type of sentence is the following: "Named must your fear be before banish it you can."80
6816462363periodicWhat type of sentence is the following: "Out of the bosom of the air, out of the cloud-folds of her garment shaken, over the woodlands brown and bare, silent and soft, and slow, descends the snow."81

DRAFT: AP English Language - Rhetorical devices Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
10295877440allegoryDevice of using character and/or story symbolically to represent an abstraction in addition to the literal meaning. The allegorical meaning usually deals with moral truth or a generalization about human existence. EX. In the book, "Lord Of The Flies", Piggy's glasses symbolize knowledge.0
10295877441alliterationRepetition of sound, especially initial consonant sounds in two or more neighboring words. Repetition can reinforce meaning, unify ideas, supply a musical sound, and/or echo the sense of the passage. EX. Sally Sold Sea Shells by the Sea Shore.1
10295877442allusionDirect or indirect reference to something which is presumably commonly known, such as an event, book, myth, place, or work of art. May be historical, literary, religious, topical, or mythical. EX. "Hey! Guess who the new Newton of our school is?" - "Newton", means a genius student, alludes to a famous scientist Isaac Newton.2
10295877443ambiguityMultiple meanings, either intentional or unintentional, of word, phrase, sentence, or passage EX. A good life depends on a liver - Liver may be an organ or simply a living person.3
10295877444analogyA similarity or comparison between two different things or the relationship between them. Can explain something unfamiliar by associating it with to pointing out its similarity to something more familiar. Analogies can also make writing more vivid, imaginative, or intellectually engaging. EX. Just as a sword is the weapon of a warrior, a pen is the weapon of a writer.4
10295877445antecedentThe word, phrase, or clause referred to by a pronoun. EX. David plays football in the courtyard. All the children have gathered there.5
10295877446antithesisThe opposition or contrast of ideas; the direct opposite EX. Good and Evil6
10295877447aphorismA 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.) An aphorism can be a memorable summation of the author's point. EX. The man who removes a mountain begins by carrying away small stones.7
10295877448apostropheA 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. The effect may add familiarity or emotional intensity. EX. William Wordsworth addresses John Milton as he writes, "Milton, thou shouldst be living at this hour: / England hath need of thee."8
10295877451clauseA grammatical unit that contains both a subject and a verb. An independent, or main, clause expresses a complete thought and can stand alone as a sentence. A dependent, or subordinate clause cannot stand alone as a sentence and must be accompanied by an independent clause. The point that you want to consider is the question of what or why the author subordinates one element to the other. You should also become aware of making effective use of subordination in your own writing. EX. "All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others."9
10295877452colloquial language/colloquialismThe use of slang or informalities in speech or writing. Not generally acceptable for formal writing, colloquialisms give a work a conversational, familiar tone. Colloquial expressions in writing include local or regional dialects. EX. "Sick, dude!"10
10295877454connotationThe nonliteral, associative meaning of a word; the implied, suggested meaning. Connotations may involve ideas, emotions, or attitudes. EX. Childlike, Youthful, Childish, Young Childish and childlike implies that someone is immature, but youthful infers that someone is lively and energetic.11
10295877455denotationThe strict, literal, dictionary definition of a word, devoid of any emotion, attitude, or color. EX. If you search for the meaning of the word "dove" in a dictionary, you will see that its meaning is "a type of pigeon, a wild and domesticated bird having a heavy body and short legs."12
10295877456dictionRelated to style, diction refers to the writer's word choices, especially with regard to their correctness, clearness, or effectiveness. and understand the ways in which diction can complement the author's purpose. Diction, combined with syntax, figurative language, literary devices, etc., creates an author's style. EX. formal or informal, ornate or plain13
10295877457didacticFrom the Greek, didactic literally means "teaching." Didactic works have the primary aim of teaching or instructing, especially the teaching of moral or ethical principles. EX.14
10295877458euphemismFrom the Greek for "good speech," euphemisms are a more agreeable or less offensive substitute for a generally unpleasant word or concept. The euphemism may be used to adhere to standards of social or political correctness or to add humor or ironic understatement. EX. Saying "earthly remains" rather than "corpse"15
10295877459extended metaphorA metaphor developed at great length, occurring frequently in or throughout a work. EX. "Life is a mountain, filled with switchbacks and rock slides and few straight paths to the top."16
10295877460figurative languageWriting or speech that is not intended to carry literal meaning and is usually meant to be imaginative and vivid. EX. The poorest man is the richest, and the rich are poor.17
10295877461figure of speechA device used to produce figurative language. Many compare dissimilar things. EX. Figures of speech include apostrophe, hyperbole, irony, metaphor, metonymy, oxymoron, paradox, personification, simile, synecdoche, and understatement.18
10295877465hyperboleA figure of speech using deliberate exaggeration or overstatement. Hyperboles often have a comic effect; however, a serious effect is also possible. Often, hyperbole produces irony. EX. "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse"19
10295877466imageryThe sensory details or figurative language used to describe, arouse emotion, or represent abstractions. On a physical level, imagery uses terms related to the five senses; we refer to visual, auditory, tactile, gustatory, or olfactory imagery. On a broader and deeper level, however, one image can represent more than one thing. For example, a rose may present visual imagery while also representing the color in a woman's cheeks and/or symbolizing some degree of perfection (It is the highest flower on the Great Chain of Being). An author may use complex imagery while simultaneously employing other figures of speech, especially metaphor and simile. In addition, this term can apply to the total of all the images in a work.20
10295877467inference/inferTo draw a reasonable conclusion from the information presented. When a multiple- choice question asks for an inference to be drawn from a passage, the most direct, most reasonable inference is the safest answer choice. If an inference is implausible, it's unlikely to be the correct answer. Note that if the answer choice is directly stated, it is not inferred and is wrong. EX.21
10295877468invectivean emotionally violent, verbal denunciation or attack using strong, abusive language. EX. "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."22
10295877469irony/ironicThe contrast between what is stated explicitly and what is really meant. The difference between what appears to be and what actually is true. In general, there are three major types of irony used in language; (1) In verbal irony, the words literally state the opposite of the writer's (or speaker's) true meaning. EX. Looking at her son's messy room, Mom says, "Wow, you could win an award for cleanliness!" (2) In situational irony, events turn out the opposite of what was expected. What the characters and readers think ought to happen is not what does happen. EX. There are roaches infesting the office of a pest control service. (3) In dramatic irony, facts or events are unknown to a character in a play or piece of fiction but known to the reader, audience, or other characters in the work. Irony is used for many reasons, but frequently, it's used to create poignancy or humor. EX. The reader knows that a storm is coming, but the children playing on the playground do not.23
10295877470litotesA form of understatement that involves making an affirmative point by denying its opposite EX. You are not as young as you used to be.24
10295877471loose 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. If a period were placed at the end of the independent clause, the clause would be a complete sentence. A work containing many loose sentences often seems informal, relaxed, and conversational. Generally loose sentences create loose style. EX. "The teacher considered him a good student, steady if not inspired, willing if not eager, responsive to instruction and conscientious about his work."25
10295877472metaphorA figure of speech using implied comparison of seemingly unlike things or the substitution of one for the other, suggesting some similarity. Metaphorical language makes writing more vivid, imaginative, thought provoking, and meaningful. EX. "She is a walking dictionary."26
10295877473metonymyA term from the Greek meaning "changed label" or "substitute name," metonymy is a figure of speech in which the name of one object is substituted for that of another closely associated with it. EX. A news release that claims "the White House declared" rather that "the President declared" is using metonymy. The substituted term generally carries a more potent emotional impact.27
10295877477oxymoronFrom the Greek for "pointedly foolish," an oxymoron is a figure of speech wherein the author groups apparently contradictory terms to suggest a paradox. EX. "jumbo shrimp" and "cruel kindness."28
10295877478paradoxA statement that appears to be self-contradictory or opposed to common sense but upon closer inspection contains some degree of truth or validity. EX. "To bring peace, we must war."29
10295877479parallelismAlso referred to as parallel construction or parallel structure, this term comes from Greek roots meaning "beside one another." It refers to the grammatical or rhetorical framing of words, phrases, sentences, or paragraphs to give structural similarity. This can involve, but is not limited to, repetition of a grammatical element such as a preposition or verbal phrase. The effects of parallelism are numerous, but frequently they act as an organizing force to attract the reader's attention, add emphasis and organization, or simply provide a musical rhythm. EX. A famous example of parallelism begins Charles Dickens's novel A Tale of Two Cities: "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity . . . ."30
10295877480anaphoraA sub-type of parallelism, when the exact repetition of words or phrases at the beginning of successive lines or sentences. EX. "My life is my purpose. My life is my goal. My life is my inspiration."31
10295877481parodyA work that closely imitates the style or content of another with the specific aim of comic effect and/or ridicule. As comedy, parody distorts or exaggerates distinctive features of the original. As ridicule, it mimics the work by repeating and borrowing words, phrases, or characteristics in order to illuminate weaknesses in the original. Well-written parody offers enlightenment about the original, but poorly written parody offers only ineffectual imitation. Usually an audience must grasp literary allusion and understand the work being parodied in order to fully appreciate the nuances of the newer work. Occasionally, however, parodies take on a life of their own and don't require knowledge of the original.32
10295877483periodic sentenceA sentence that presents its central meaning in a main clause at the end. This independent clause is preceded by a phrase or clause that cannot stand alone. Adds emphasis and structural variety. It is also a much stronger sentence than the loose sentence. EX. "Ecstatic with my AP score, I let out a loud, joyful shout.!"33
10295877484personificationA figure of speech in which the author presents or describes concepts, animals, or inanimate objects by endowing them with human attributes or emotions. Personification is used to make these abstractions, animals, or objects appear more vivid to the reader. EX. The leaves danced around as they began falling from the trees.34
10295877486proseOne of the major divisions of genre, prose refers to fiction and nonfiction, including all its forms . In prose the printer determines the length of the line; in poetry, the poet determines the length of the line.35
10295877487repetitionThe duplication, either exact or approximate, of any element of language, such as a sound, word, phrase, clause, sentence, or grammatical pattern. EX. "When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child".36
10295877488rhetoricFrom the Greek for "orator," this term describes the principles governing the art of writing effectively, eloquently, and persuasively. EX. "Smoking kills.... so why bother starting" poster37
10295877490sarcasmFrom the Greek meaning "to tear flesh," sarcasm involves bitter, caustic language that is meant to hurt or ridicule someone or something. It may use irony as a device, but not all ironic statements are sarcastic, that is, intended to ridicule. When well done, sarcasm can be witty and insightful; when poorly done, it's simply cruel. EX. As i fell down the stairs headfirst, I heard her say, "Look at that coordination."38
10295877491satireA work that targets human vices and follies or social institutions and conventions for reform or ridicule. Regardless of whether or not the work aims to reform human behavior, satire is best seen as a style of writing rather than a purpose for writing. It can be recognized by the many devices used effectively by the satirist: irony, wit, parody, caricature, hyperbole, understatement, and sarcasm. The effects of satire are varied, depending on the writer's goal, but good satire, often humorous, is thought provoking and insightful about the human condition. EX. Saturday Night Live, Mad Magazine39
10295877493styleThe consideration of style has two purposes: (1) An evaluation of the sum of the choices an author makes in blending diction, syntax, figurative language, and other literary devices. Some authors' styles are so idiosyncratic that we can quickly recognize works by the same author (or a writer emulating that author's style). Compare, for example, Jonathan Swift to George Orwell or William Faulkner to Ernest Hemingway. We can analyze and describe an author's personal style and make judgments on how appropriate it is to the author's purpose. Styles can be called flowery, explicit, succinct, rambling, bombastic, commonplace, incisive, or laconic, to name only a few examples. (2) Classification of authors to a group and comparison of an author to similar authors. By means of such classification and comparison, we can see how an author's style reflects and helps to define a historical period, such as the Renaissance or the Victorian period, or a literary movement, such as the romantic, transcendental or realist movement.40
10295877495subordinate clauseLike all clauses, this word group contains both a subject and a verb (plus any accompanying phrases or modifiers), but unlike the independent clause, the subordinate clause cannot stand alone; it does not express a complete thought. Also called a dependent clause, the subordinate clause depends on a main clause, sometimes called an independent clause, to complete its meaning. Easily recognized key words and phrases usually begin these clauses-- EX. although, because, unless, if, even though, since, as soon as, while, who, when, where, how, and that.41
10295877496syllogismFrom the Greek for "reckoning together," a syllogism (or syllogistic reasoning or syllogistic logic) is a deductive system of formal logic that presents two premises (the first one called "major" and the second, "minor") that inevitably lead to a sound conclusion. A frequently cited example proceeds as follows:EX. major Premise: All men are mortal. minor premise: Socrates is a man. conclusion: Therefore, Socrates is mortal. A Syllogism's conclusion is valid only if each of the two premises is valid. Syllogisms may also present the specific idea first ("Socrates") and the general second ("All men").42
10295877497symbol/symbolismGenerally, anything that represents itself and stands for something else. Usually a symbol is something concrete--such as an object, action, character, or scene--that represents something more abstract. However, symbols and symbolism can be much more complex. One system classifies symbols in three categories: (1) Natural symbols are objects and occurrences from nature to represent ideas commonly associated with them EX. (dawn symbolizing hope or a new beginning, a rose symbolizing love, a tree symbolizing knowledge). (2) Conventional symbols are those that have been invested with meaning by a group. Ex. (religious symbols such as a cross or Star of David; national symbols, such as a flag or an eagle; or group symbols, such as a skull and crossbones for pirates or the scales of justice for lawyers). (3) Literary symbols are sometimes also conventional in the sense that they are found in a variety of works and are generally recognized. However, a work's symbols may be more complicated as is the whale in Moby Dick and the jungle in Heart of Darkness.43
10295877498synecdocheA figure of speech in which a part of something is used to represent the whole or, occasional, the whole is used to represent a part. EX. The phrase "gray beard" refers to an old man.44
10295877500syntaxThe way an author chooses to join words into phrases, clauses, and sentences. Syntax is similar to diction, but you can differentiate them by thinking of syntax as the groups of words, while diction refers to the individual words. Syntax is the way in which words and punctuation are used and arranged to form phrases, clauses and sentences. EX. Incorrect: To the mall we are going. Correct: We are going to the mall.45
10295877501themeThe central idea or message of a work, the insight it offers into life. Usually theme is unstated in fictional works, but in nonfiction, the theme may be directly stated, especially in expository or argumentative writing. EX. Money can't buy happiness46
10295877502thesisIn expository writing, the thesis statement is the sentence or group of sentences that directly expresses the author's opinion, purpose, meaning, or position. Expository writing is usually judged by analyzing how accurately, effectively, and throughly a writer has proved the thesis.47
10295877503toneSimilar to mood, tone describes the author's attitude toward his material, the audience, or both. Tone is easier to determine in spoken language than in written language. Considering how a work would sound if it were read aloud can help in identifying an author's tone. EX. playful, serious, businesslike, sarcastic, humorous, formal, ornate, sardonic, and somber.48
10295877505understatementThe ironic minimizing of fact, understatement presents something as less significant than it is. The effect can frequently be humorous and emphatic. Understatement is the opposite of hyperbole. EX. your leg is broken in 3 places, so it is going to be a little sore for a while49
10295877506witIn modern usage, intellectually amusing language that surprises and delights. A witty statement is humorous, while suggesting the speaker's verbal power in creating ingenious and perceptive remarks. Wit usually uses terse language that makes a pointed statement. EX. "you can't be late until you show up"50

AP Language Unit 2 Vocab Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
5020790960accost(verb) to confront in challenging or aggressive way0
5020797936animadversion(noun) a comment indication strong criticism or disapproval1
5020800668avid(adj.) desiring something to the point of greed; intensely eager2
5020818150brackish(adj.) salty3
5020818151celerity(noun) swiftness4
5020820256devious(adj.) straying or wandering; shifty5
5020837498gambit(noun) a high risk move usually involving the sacrifice of a minor piece.6
5020841725halcyon(noun) a legendary bird, calm, peaceful7
5020846865histrionic(adj.) theatrical, melodramatic8
5020850284incendiary(adj.) intentionally flammable, (noun) arsonist9
5020861411maelstrom(noun) a whirlpool, a chaotic situation10
5020866585myopic(adj.) nearsighted11
5020869299overt(adj.) open, not hidden12
5020872003pejorative(adj.) tending to make worse; derogatory13
5020876919propriety(noun) being proper14
5020882448sacrilege(noun) improper treatment of something sacred.15
5020889285summarily(adv.) without delay or formality; briefly.16
5020892481suppliant(adj.) asking humbly (noun) somebody who asks humbly17
5020896315talisman(noun) a charm18
5020898810undulate(v.) to move in waves19

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