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AP Literature Terminology Oct. 17 Flashcards

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7718636522InvectiveHighly critical language0
7718639455MonologueA long speech by one actor in a play or movie1
7718641063ProverbStating a general truth or piece of advice2
7718644064PunA joke exploiting the different possible meanings of a word3
7718646513SarcasmThe use of irony to mock4
7718651366SoliloquySpeaking one's thoughts aloud when by oneself or regardless of any hearers5
7718655842SlangType of language that consists of words and phrases that are regarded as very informal6
7718661241UnderstatementThe presentation of something as being smaller, than it actually is7
7718663715IdiomA group of words established by usage as having a meaning not deducible from those of the individual words8
7718668335IronyThe expression of one's meaning by using language that normally signifies the opposite9
7718669992Dramatic IronyThe full significance of a character's words or actions are clear to the audience10
7718679509Verbal IronyIrony in which a person says or writes one thing and means another11
7718688220Situational IronyIrony involving a situation in which actions have an effect that is opposite from what was intended12
7718692579Epistolary novelWritten as a series of documents13
7718699710First Person povnarrative is a point of view, where the story is narrated by one character at a time14
7718702743Flashbacka scene in a movie, novel, set in a time earlier than the main story.15
7718709771Flash forwardTakes the narrative forward in time from the current point of the story in literature16
7718715469In medias resinto the middle of a narrative17
7718718861LimitedRestricted in size18
7718722804Omniscient PovNarrator knows all the thoughts, actions, and feelings of all characters19
7718726971Linear StructureAppears under a variety of names depending on storage representation and its intended use20

AP World History Chapter 3 Flashcards

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7488312407ConfuciusAKA Kong Fuzi. Scholar/philosopher who inspired Confucianism and created the Analects.0
7488316615Analectswisdom of Confucius put into a book.1
7488321869Zhou dynastyineffective, feudal dynasty2
7488325367Qin Dynastyturn-around period, interlude for the Han dynasty.3
7488333035Shi HuangdiLegalist who built the Great Wall of China, but attacked intellectuals and increased taxes.4
7488334223Yangzi River Valleyland gained during Zhou dynasty; became known as the Middle Kingdom.5
7488341966Han Dynastymost successful dynasty of pre-modern China. which lasted into CE. Expanded influence, trade and technology.6
7488349000Confucianismintellectualism7
7488349001Legalismbelieving the government should have complete control; legal pragmatism8
7488352506Daoismbelief in harmony between the human race and nature; yin and yang9
7488356112HunsThe Huns were the cause of the end of the Han dynasty; attacked China on multiple occasions.10
7488361117Bureaucracya system of government in which most of the important decisions are made by state officials rather than by elected representatives; the most effective form of government in China11
7488368159Mandarin Chinesethe language which all Chinese inhabitants spoke; if one did not speak it, they were considered a barbarian.12
7488370474Wudigreat Han emperor who greatly expanded China's influence throughout the Han dynasty13
7488382162Chinese familiesChinese families were patriarchal, tightly knit, women held their tongue, and participated in ancestor worship.14

AP Language Flashcards

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7337477560AllegoryThe device of using character and/or story elements symbolically to represent an abstraction in addition to the literal meaning. In some allegories, for example, an author may intend the characters to personify an abstraction lie hope or freedom. The allegorical meaning usually deals with moral truth or a generalization about human existence. A story, poem, or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one.0
7337477561AlliterationThe repetition of sounds, especially initial consonants in tow or more neighboring words (as in "she sells sea shells). Although the term is not used frequently in the multiple-choice section, you can look for alliteration in any essay passage. The repetition can reinforce meaning, unify ideas, supply a musical sound, and/or echo the sense of the passage.1
7337477562AllusionA direct or indirect reference to something which is presumably commonly known, such as an event, book, myth, place, or work of art. Allusions can be historical, literary, religious, topical, or mythical. There are many more possibilities, and a work may simultaneously use multiple layers of allusion.2
7337477563Ambiguity (am-bi-gyoo-i-tee)The multiple meanings, either intentional or unintentional, of a word, phrase, sentence, or passage.3
7337477564AnalogyA similarity or comparison between two different things or the relationship between them. An analogy can explain something unfamiliar by associating it with or pointing out its similarity to something more familiar. Analogies can also make writing more vivid, imaginative, or intellectually engaging. Ex. He that voluntarily continues ignorance is guilty of all the crimes which ignorance produces, as to him4
7337477565Anaphora (uh-naf-er-uh)One of the devices of repetition, in which the same expression (word or words) is repeated at the beginning of two or more lines, clauses, or sentences.5
7337477566AnecdoteA short narrative detailing particulars of an interesting episode or event. The term most frequently refers to an incident in the life of a person6
7337477567Antecedent (an-tuh-seed-nt)The word, phrase, or clause referred to by a pronoun. The AP Language exam occasionally asks for the antecedent of a given pronoun in a long, complex sentence or in a group of sentences.7
7337477568Antithesis (an-tih-theh-sis)Figure of balance in which two contrasting ideas are intentionally juxtaposed, usually through parallel structure; a contrasting of opposing ideas in adjacent phrases, clauses, or sentences. Antithesis creates a definite and systematic relationship between ideas.8
7337477569AphorismA terse statement of know 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.9
7337477570ApostropheA 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 is to give vent to or display intense emotion, which can no longer be held back:10
7337477571Asyndeton (uh-sin-di-tuhn)consists of omitting conjunctions between words, phrases, or clauses. This can give the effect of unpremeditated multiplicity, of an extemporaneous rather than a labored account. Asyndetic lists can be more emphatic than if a final conjunction were used. Ex. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.11
7337477572AtmosphereThe emotional mood 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 description of the weather can contribute to the atmosphere. Frequently atmosphere forshadows events. Perhaps it can create a mood.12
7337477573Chiasmus (kahy-az-muhs)(From the Greek word for "criss-cross," a designation based on the Greek letter "chi," written X). Chiasmus is a figure of speech containing two phrases that are parallel but inverted to each other. Ex. You can take the patriot out of the country but you cannot take the country out of the patriot.13
7337477574Clausea grammatical unit that contains both a subject and a verb. An independent, or main, clause expresses a complete thought and can sand 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.14
7337477575Colloquial/colloquialism (kuj-loh-kwee-uhl)The 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.15
7337477576CoherenceA principle demanding that the parts of any composition be arranged so that the meaning of the whole may be immediately clear and intelligible. Words, phrases, clauses within the sentence; and sentences, paragraphs, and chpters in larger pieces of writing are the unit that by their progressive and logical arrangement, make for coherence.16
7337477577ConceitA fanciful expression, usually in the form of an extended metaphor or surprising analogy between seemingly dissimilar objects. A conceit displays intellectual cleverness as a result of the unusual comparison being made.17
7337477578Connotation- The nonliteral, associative meaning of a word; the implied, suggested meaning. Connotations may involve ideas, emotions, or attitudes.18
7337477579DenotationThe strict, literal, dictionary definition of a word, devoid of any emotion attitude, or color.19
7337477580Diacoperepetition of a word or phrase after an intervening word or phrase: word/phrase X, . . ., word/phrase X.20
7337477581DictionRelated to style, diction refers to the writer's word choices, especially with regard to their correctness, clearness, or effectiveness. For the AP exam, you should be able to 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.21
7337477582Didactic (dahy-dak-tik)From the Greek, didactic literally means "teaching." Didactic works have the primary aim of teaching or instructing, especially the teaching of moral or ethical principles.22
7337477583EnumeratioFigure of amplification in which a subject is divided into constituent parts or details, and may include a listing of causes, effects, problems, solutions, conditions, and consequences; the listing or detailing of the parts of something.23
7337477584Expletive (ek-spli-tiv)Figure of emphasis in which a single word or short phrase, usually interrupting normal speech, is used to lend emphasis to the words on either side of the expletive.24
7337477585Euphemism (yoo-fuh-miz-uhm)From 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 sued to adhere to standards of social or political correctness or to add humor or ironic understatement.25
7337477586ExpositionIn essays, one of the four chief types of composition, the others being argumentation, description, and narration. The purpose of exposition is to explain something. In drama, the exposition is the introductory material, which creates the tone, gives the setting, and introduces the characters and conflict.26
7337477587Extended metaphorA metaphor developed at great length, occurring frequently in or throughout the work.27
7337477588Figurative language- Writing or speech that is not intended to carry literal meaning and is usually meant to be imaginative and vivid.28
7337477589Figure of speechA device used to produce figurate language. Many compare dissimilar things. Figures of speech include apostrophe, hyperbole, irony, metaphor, metonymy, oxymoron, paradox, personification, simile, synecdoche, and understatement.29
7337477590Generic conventionsThis term describes traditions for each genre. These conventions help to define each genre; for example, they differentiate an essay and journalistic writing or an autobiography and political writing. On the AP language exam, try to distinguish the unique features of a writer's work from those dictated by convention.30
7337477591GenreThe major category into which a literary work fits. The basic divisions of literature are prose, poetry, and drama. However, genre is a flexible term; within these broad boundaries exist many subdivisions that are often called genres themselves. For example, prose can be divided into fiction (novels and short stories) or nonfiction (essays, biographies, autobiographies, etc). Poetry can be divided into lyric, dramatic, narrative, epic, etc. Drama can be divided into tragedy, comedy, melodrama, farce, etc. ON the AP language exam, expect the majority of the passages to be from the following genres: autobiography, biography, diaries, criticism, essays, and journalistic, political, scientific, and nature writing.31
7337477592Homily (hom-uh-lee)This term literally means "sermon," but more informally, it can include any serious talk, speech, or lecture involving moral or spiritual advice.32
7337477593Hyperbole (hahy-pur-buh-lee)A 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.33
7337477594HypophoraFigure of reasoning in which one or more questions is/are asked and then answered, often at length, by one and the same speaker; raising and responding to one's own question(s). A common usage is to ask the question at the beginning of a paragraph and then use the paragraph to answer it. You can use hypophora to raise questions which you think the reader obviously has on his/her mind and would like to see formulated and answered.34
7337477595ImageryThe sensory details or figurative language used to describe, arouse emotion, or represent abstractions. On a physical level, imager y 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 figure s 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 exam, pay attention to how an author creates imagery and to the effect of this imagery.35
7337477596Inference/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. You must be careful to note the connotation - negative or positive - of the choices.36
7337477597Invectivean emotionally violent, verbal denunciation or attach using strong, abusive language.37
7337477598Irony/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 a verbal irony, the words literally state the opposite of the writer's (or speaker's) true meaning. (2) In situational irony, events turn out the opposite of what was expected. What the characters and the readers think ought to happen. (3) In dramatic irony, facts or events are unknown to a character in a play or piece of fiction, but know 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.38
7337477599Juxtaposition (juhk-stuh-puh-zish-uhn)When two words, phrases, images, ideas are placed close together or side by side for comparison or contrast. Ex. dreams and reality, normality and chaos39
7337477600Litotes (lahy-toh-teez)An ironic understatement in which an affirmative is expressed by the negative of its contrary. Ex. you won't be sorry40
7337477601Loose sentencea type of sentence in which the main idea (independent clause) comes first, followed by wdependent 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.41
7337477602MetaphorA 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.42
7337477603Metonymy (mi-ton-uh-mee)A 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. 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 response.43
7337477604MoodThis term has two distinct technical meanings in English writing. The first meaning is grammatical and eals with verbal units and a speaker's attitude. The indicative mood is used only for factual sentences. For example, "Joe eats too quickly." The subjective mod is used to express conditions contrary to fact. For example, "If I were you, I'd get another job." The imperative mood is used for commands. For example, "Shut the door!" The second meaning of mood is literary, meaning the prevailing atmosphere or emotional aura of a work. Setting, tone, and events can affect the mood. In this usage, mood is similar to tone and atmosphere.44
7337477605NarrativeThe telling of a story or an account of an event or series of events.45
7337477606Onomatopoeia (on-uh-mat-uh-pee-uh)A figure of speech in which natural sounds are imitated in the sounds of words. Simple examples include such words as buzz, hiss, hum, crack, whinny, and murmur. If you note examples of onomatopoeia in an essay passage, note the effect.46
7337477607OxymoronFrom the Greek for "pointedly foolish," an oxymoron is a figure of speech wherein the author groups apparently contradictory terms to suggest a paradox. Simple examples include "jumbo shrimp" and "cruel kindness." This term does not usually appear in the multiple-choice questions, but there is a chance that you might find it in an essay. Take note of the effect which the author achieves with this term.47
7337477608ParadoxA statement that appears to be self-contradictory or opposed to common sense but upon closer inspection contains some degree of truth or validity.48
7337477609ParallelismAlso 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. 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 . . ." 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.49
7337477610ParodyA 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 exaggerated 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 original50
7337477611Pedantic (puh-dan-tik)An adjective that describes words, phrases, or general tone that is overly scholarly, academic, or bookish.51
7337477612Periodic 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. For example: "Ecstatic with my AP score, I let out a loud, joyful shout!" The effect of a periodic sentence is to add emphasis and structural variety. It is also a much stronger sentence than the loose sentence.52
7337477613PersonificationA 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, animal, or objects appear more vivid to the reader.53
7337477614Polysyndeton (paulee-sin-dih-tawn)Figure of addition and emphasis which intentionally employs a series of conjunctions (FANBOYS: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) not normally found in successive words, phrases or clauses; the deliberate and excessive use of conjunctions in successive words or clauses. The effect is a feeling of multiplicity, energetic enumeration, and building up - a persistence or intensity.54
7337477615Predicate adjectiveOne type of subject complement is an adjective, group of adjectives, or adjective clause that follows a linking verb. It is an the predicate of the sentence, and modifies, or describes, the subject.55
7337477616Predicate nominativeA second type of subject complement - a noun, group of nouns, or noun clause that names the subject. It, like the predicate adjective, follows a linking verb and is located in the predicate of the sentence.56
7337477617ProseOne of the major divisions of genre, prose refers to fiction and non-fiction, including all its forms. In prose the printer determines the length of the line; in poetry, the poet determines the length of the line57
7337477618RepetitionThe duplication, either exact or approximate, of any element of language, such as a sound, word, phrase, clause, sentence, or grammatical pattern.58
7337477619RhetoricFrom the Greek for "orator," this term describes the principles governing the art of writing effectively, eloquently, and persuasively.59
7337477620Rhetorical modesThis flexible term describes the variety, the conventions, and purposes of the major kinds of writing. The four most common rhetorical modes and their purposes are as follows: (1) The purpose of exposition (or expository writing) is to explain and analyze information by presenting an idea, relevant evidence, and appropriate discussion. The AP language exam essay questions are frequently expository topics. (2) The purpose of argumentation is to prove the validity of an idea, or point of view, by presenting sound reasoning, discussion, and argument that thoroughly convince the reader. Persuasive writing is a type of argumentation having an additional aim of urging some form of action. (3) The purpose of description is to re-create, invent, or visually present a person, place, event or action so that the reader can picture that being described. Sometimes an author engages all five senses in description; good descriptive writing can be sensuous and picturesque. Descriptive writing may be straightforward and objective or highly emotional and subjective. (4) The purpose of narration is to tell a story or narrate an event or series of events. This writing mode frequently uses the tools of descriptive writing. These four modes are sometimes referred to as mode of discourse.60
7337477621Rhetorical Question [erotesis]- differs from hypophora in that it is not answered by the writer because its answer is obvious or obviously desired, and usually just a yes or no answer would suffice. It is used for effect, emphasis, or provocation, or for drawing a conclusionary statement from the fact at hand.61
7337477622SarcasmFrom 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 is a device, but not all ironic statements are sarcastic, that is, intended to ridicule. When well done, sarcasm can be witty and insightful; when done poorly, it's simply cruel62
7337477623SatireA 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 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.63
7337477624SemanticsThe branch of linguistics that studies the meaning of words, their historical and psychological development, their connotations, and their relation to one another64
7337477625StyleThe 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's 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 of the Victorian period, or a literary movement, such as the romantic, transcendental or realist movement.65
7337477626Subject complementThe word (with any accompanying phrases) or clauses that follows a linking verb and complements, or completes, the subject of the sentence by either (1) renaming it or (2) describing it. The former is the technically a predicate nominative, the latter a predicate adjective. Multiple-choice questions.66
7337477627Subordinate 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 0 for example: although, because, unless, if even though, since, as soon as, while who, when , where, how and that.67
7337477628SyllogismFrom 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 firs one called "major" and the second, "minor") that inevitably lead to a sound conclusion. A frequently cited example proceeds as follows;68
7337477629Symbol/symbolismGenerally, anything that represents itself and stands for something else. Usually a symbol is something concrete - such as 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 (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 (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 an 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. On the AP exam, try to determine what abstraction an object is a symbol for and to what extent it is successful in representing that abstraction.69
7337477630Synecdoche (si-nek-duh-kee)is a type of metaphor in which the part stands for the whole, the whole for a part, the genus for the species, the species for the genus, the material for the thing made, or in short, any portion , section, or main quality for the whole or the thing itself (or vice versa).70
7337477631SyntaxThe 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. In the multiple-choice section, expect to be asked some questions about how an author manipulates syntax. In the essay section, you will need to analyze how syntax produces effects.71
7337477632ThemeThe 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 exposityr or argumentative writing.72
7337477633ThesisIn expository writing, the thesis statement is the sentence or a 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 thoroughly a writer has proved the thesis.73
7337477634ToneSimilar 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 ti were read aloud can help in identifying an author's tone. Some words describing tone are playful, serious, businesslike, sarcastic, humorous, formal, ornate, sardonic, and somber74
7337477635TransitionA word or phrase that links different ideas. Used especially, although not exclusively, in expository and argumentative writing, transitions effectively signal a shift from one idea to another. A few commonly used transitional words or phrases are furthermore, consequently, nevertheless, for example, in addition, likewise, similarly and on the contrary. More sophisticated writers use more subtle means of transition. We will discuss these methods later.75
7337477636UnderstatementThe 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.76
7337477637UndertoneAn attitude that may lie under the ostensible tone of the piece. Under a cheery surface, for example, a work may have threatening undertones. William Blake's "The Chimney Sweeper" from the Songs of Innocence has a grim undertone.77
7337477638WitIn modern usage, intellectually amazing 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. Historically, wit originally meant basic understanding. Its meaning evolved to include speed of understanding, and finally (in the early seventeenth century), it grew to mean quick perception including creative fancy and a quick tongue to articulate an answer that demanded the same quick perception.78
7337485123zeugmaa figure of speech in which a word applies to two others in different senses (e.g., John and his license expired last week ) or to two others of which it semantically suits only one (e.g., with weeping eyes and hearts )79
7337529027assonancerefers to repetition of sounds produced by vowels within a sentence or phrase. In this regard _______ can be understood to be a kind of alliteration.80
7337654252synesthesiarefers to the depiction of a strong connection, link or bond between the different senses. Ex. The silence was as thick as a forest.81
7337825926anaphorathe repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses. Ex. The wrong person was selected for the wrong job, at the wrong time, for the wrong purpose.82
7396401082begging the questionan argumentative ploy where the arguer sidesteps the question or conflict, evades or ignores the real question83
7396422272canonthe works of an author which are accepted as genuine84
7396447203conventiona literary device, style, usage, situation, or form so widely used that it has become accepted and even expected by knowledgeable scholars and readers85
7397225728consonancethe recurrence of same or similar consonant sounds in poetry. is used along with assonance and alliteration as a sound effect86
7397314366epistrophethe repetition of a word or phrase at the end of succession lines or clauses.87
7397326407ethosin rhetoric, the appeal of the text to the credibility and character of the speaker, writer or narrator88
7397383765eulogya statement or oration in praise of a person, often deceased. An elegy of laments, a eulogy praises89
7397414154extended metaphora series of comparisons within a piece of writing. If they are consistently one concept, it becomes a conceit90
7397471784inductive reasoningthe method of reasoning or argument in which general statements and conclusions are drawn from specific principals; movement from specific to general91
7397514693jargona way of speech full of unfamiliar terms; the vocabulary of science, profession, and art92
7397531366isocolonparallel structure in which the elements are similar not only in grammatical structure but also in length93
7397569174logosthe rational principle that governs and develops the universe. an appeal to logic and reasoning94
7397614919lampoona virulent or scurrilous piece of satire in either prose or verse. they are personal attacks, and appeared widely in the 17th and 18th95
7401599019motifa particular idea or dominant element running throughout a work of art, forming part of the main theme96
7401654896punA play on word, of which there are at least two kinds: (1) the repetition of a word in different senses (2) the use of words alike in sound but different in meaning97
7401707658realismattempting to describe nature and life without idealization and with attention to detail98
7401747650rebuttal/ refutationan argument technique wherein opposing arguments are anticipated and countered99
7401773633pathosthe quality in writing which evokes pity or sadness100
7401831132similean imaginative comparison using 'like" or "as"101
7401868705voicethe acknowledged or unacknowledged source of the words of the story; the speaker or narrator's particular take on an idea102

AP Literature Terms Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
7404284221Absolutea word free from limitations or qualifications ("best," "all," "unique," "perfect")0
7404284222Chiasmusa statement consisting of two parallel parts in which the second part is structurally reversed a. "Susan walked in, and out rushed Mary"1
7404284842Bathosinsincere or overly sentimental quality of writing/speech intended to evoke pity2
7404284843Ad hominem argumentan argument attacking an individual's character rather than his or her position on an issue3
7404285690Deductive reasoningreasoning in which a conclusion is reached by stating a general principle and then applying that principle to a specific case a. "The sun rises every morning; therefore, the sun will rise on Tuesday morning."4
7404285691Ellipsisthe omission of a word or phrase which is grammatically necessary but can be deduced from the context a. "Some people prefer cats; others, dogs")5
7404286567Inductive reasoningderiving general principles from particular facts or instances a. "Every cat I have ever seen has four legs; cats are four-legged animals."6
7404286568Malapropismthe mistaken substitution of one word for another word that sounds similar a. "The doctor wrote a subscription."7
7404287513Non-sequituran inference that does not follow logically from the premises (literally, "does not follow")8
7404287514Solecismnonstandard grammatical usage; a violation of grammatical rules9
7477415455Adagea familiar proverb or wise saying10
7477423671Epitheta term used to point out the characteristic of a person a. Homeric epithets are often compound adjectives ("swift-footed Achilles") that become an almost formulaic part of a name. Epithets can be abusive or offensive but are not so by definition. For example, athletes may be proud of their given epithets ("The Rocket").11
7477423672Cumulative sentencea sentence in which the main independent clause is elaborated by the successive addition of modifying clauses or phrases12
7477424636Allegorya literary work in which characters, objects, or actions represent abstractions13
7477424637Limited narratora narrator who presents the story as it is seen and understood by a single character and restricts information to what is seen, heard, thought, or felt by that character14
7477425390Juxtapositionplacing two elements side by side to present a comparison or contrast15
7477425391Hubrisexcessive pride or arrogance that results in the downfall of the protagonist of a tragedy16
7477426011Literary licensedeviating from normal rules or methods in order to achieve a certain effect a. For example, the use of intentional sentence fragments for emphasis.17
7477426012Maxima concise statement, often offering advice; an adage18
7477427878Romantica term describing a character or literary work that reflects the characteristics of Romanticism, the literary movement beginning in the late 18th century that stressed emotion, imagination, and individualism19
7554064056Colloquialisminformal words or expressions not usually acceptable in formal writing20
7554064057Alliterationthe repetition of initial sounds in successive or neighboring words21
7554066948Frame devicea story within a story a. An example is Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, in which the primary tales are told within the "frame story" of the pilgrimage to Canterbury.22
7554066949Omniscient narratora narrator who is able to know, see, and tell all, including the inner thoughts and feelings of the characters23
7554069571Metonymysubstituting the name of one object for another object closely associated with it a. "The pen [writing] is mightier than the sword [war/fighting]"24
7554069572Genrea major category or type of literature25
7554071914Dilemmaa situation that requires a person to decide between two equally attractive or equally unattractive alternatives26
7554071915Parentheticala comment that interrupts the immediate subject, often to qualify or explain27
7554074244Syllepsisa construction in which one word is used in two different senses a. "After he threw the ball, he threw a fit."28
7554074245Surrealisman artistic movement emphasizing the imagination and characterized by incongruous juxtapositions and lack of conscious control29
7704188851Aphorisma concise statement that expresses succinctly a general truth or idea, often using rhyme or balance30
7704190299Epigrapha saying or statement on the title page of a work, or used as a heading for a chapter or other section of a work31
7704190300Epica long narrative poem written in elevated style which presents the adventures of characters of high position and episodes that are important to the history of a race or nation32
7704192326Homilya sermon, or a moralistic lecture33
7704192327Synesthesia (or synaesthesia)describing one kind of sensation in terms of another a. "A loud color," "a sweet sound,"34
7704193876Tragedya work in which the protagonist, a person of high degree, is engaged in a significant struggle which ends in ruin or destruction35
7704195633Motivationa character's incentive or reason for behaving in a certain manner; that which impels a character to act36
7704195634Flat charactera character who embodies a single quality and who does not develop in the course of a story37
7704197061Jargonthe specialized language or vocabulary of a particular group or profession38
7704197062Limericklight verse consisting of five lines of regular rhythm in which the first, second, and fifth lines (each consisting of three feet) rhyme, and the second and third lines (each consisting of two feet) rhyme39
7855272102Declarative sentencea sentence that makes a statement or declaration40
7855272103Climaxthe point of highest interest in a literary work41
7855273796Archetypea detail, image, or character type that occurs frequently in literature and myth and is thought to appeal in a universal way to the unconscious and to evoke a response42
7855273797Litotesa type of understatement in which an idea is expressed by negating its opposite a. Describing a particularly horrific scene by saying, "It was not a pretty picture."43
7855275582Idioman expression in a given language that cannot be understood from the literal meaning of the words in the expression; or, a regional speech or dialect44
7855275583Motifa standard theme, element, or dramatic situation that recurs in various works45
7855277096Implicationa suggestion an author or speaker makes (implies) without stating it directly (NOTE: the author/sender implies; the reader/audience infers)46
7855277097Inferencea conclusion one draws (infers) based on premises or evidence47
7855278851Syllogisma three-part deductive argument in which a conclusion is based on a major premise and a minor premise a. "All gods are immortal; Mr. Pagtakhan is a god. Therefore, Mr. Pagtakhan is immortal."48
7855278852Synecdocheusing one part of an object to represent the entire object a. For example, referring to a car simply as "wheels"49

AP Language and Composition Vocab Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
6809786655Periodic SentenceA sentence that departs from the usual word order of English sentences by expressing its main thought only at the end. In other words, the particles in the sentence are presented before the idea they support.0
6809789605conceitcomparison between two very unlike things usually with the help of metaphor or analogy1
6809791557anaphoraThe regular repetition of words or phrases at the beginning of successive phrases or clauses.2
6809793361antecedentsThe clause, word, or phrase in which a pronoun refers to.3
6809795746synecdocheA figure of speech where a part signifies the whole, or the whole signifies the part.4
6809798469epistropheThe repetition of a phrase at the end of successive sentences.5
6809801725malapropismThe unintentional use of a word that resembles the word intended but that has a very different meaning6
6809805351witAn intellectually amusing language that surprises and delights7
6809806820canonThat which has been accepted as authentic8
6809808803argumentationTakes a position on an issue and defend it9
6809812576ambiguityThe multiple meanings, either intentional or unintentional, of a word, phrase, sentence, or passage. It can also include a sense of uncertainty or inexactness that a work presents.10
6809814202flashback (retrospection)An earlier event is inserted into the normal chronology of the narration11
6809816005onomatopoeiaA figure of speech in which natural sounds are imitated in the sounds of words.12
6809818026aphorismStatement designed to make a point or illustrate a commonly held belief.13
6809820018punA play on words14
6809821705analysisTaking apart a particular passage and dividing it into its basic components for the purpose of examining how the writer develops his or her subject15
6809823550metonymyWhen one term is substituted for another term that is closely associated16
6809824947zeugmaA grammatically correct construction in which a word, usually a verb or adjective, is applied to two or more nouns without being repeated.17
6809827697colloquialismA word or phrase that is not formal or literary, typically one used in ordinary or familiar conversation (diction of common folk, especially of a specific region)18
6809829052dogmatismReasoning that does not allow for discussion because the speaker presumes that his/her beliefs are beyond question; the logic is: I'm correct because I'm correct.19
6809830959epitaphWriting in praise of a dead person, most often inscribed upon a headstone.20
6809832625naturalismA term often used as synonym for realism; also a view of experience that is generally characterized as bleak and pessimistic.21
6809834205asyndetonA syntactical structure in which conjunctions are omitted in a series, usually producing more rapid prose.A syntactical structure in which conjunctions are omitted in a series, usually producing more rapid prose.22
6809836844IgnominyPublic shame or disgrace23
6809839476discourse"Conversation" between the text and the reader24
6809840877caricatureA ludicrous exaggeration of the defects of persons or things25
6809845038tropeThe generic name for a figure of speech. Commonly recurring.26
6809846789proseAny passage that isn't poetry or a drama. Usually in the form of a narrative.27
6809849007AnalogyA comparison between two things. Typical in the form of a simile or metaphor.28
6809851243ChasmA profound difference between people, viewpoints, etc.29
6809852617mode of discourseThe way in which information is presented in written or spoken form. (Narration, description, exposition, and argumentation)30
6809854173Ad hominemIn an argument, an attack on the person rather than on the opponent's ideas. It comes from the Latin meaning "against the man"31
6809856585litotesa form of understatement that involves making an affirmative point by denying its opposite.32
6809858541oxymoronA figure of speech that combines two apparently contradictory elements33
6809860119elliptical constructionA sentence containing a deliberate omission of words34
6809862347isocolonParallel structure in which the parallel elements are similar not only in grammatical structure but also in length.35
6809864063LampoonA mocking, satirical assault on a person or situation.36
6809866315paradoxStatement that seems contradictory but is probably true37
6809868698ChiasmusA figure of speech and generally syntactical structure wherein the order of the terms in the first half of a parallel clause is reversed in the second.38
6809870453epithetan adjective or phrase that expresses a striking quality of a person or thing, also can be used to apply vulgar or profane exclamations39
6809871765pedanticAn adjective that describes words, phrases, or general tone that is overly scholarly, academic, or bookish40
6809873822invectiveAn emotionally violent, verbal denunciation or attack using strong, abusive language41
6809875890Contrast or ComparisonA method of presenting similarities and differences between at least 2 items42
6809878677equivocationTelling part of the truth, while deliberately hiding the entire truth.43
6809880399circumlocutionTalking around a subject or talking around a word44
6809882050imagerySensory details or figurative language used to describe, arouse emotion, or represent abstractions.45
6809883798PunctiliousShowing great attention to detail or correct behavior46
6809885824conventionAn accepted manner, model, or tradition47
6809887752didacticWhen writing or speech has an instructive purpose or a lesson48
6809889451sarcasmVerbal irony used with the intent to injure49
6809890801HomilyThis term literally means "sermon," but more informally, it can include any serious talk, speech, or lecture involving moral or spiritual advice.50
6809893352Non sequiturA statement or idea that fails to flow logically from the one before.51
6809894945parodyImitation for comic effect52
6809896776Red HerringAttempts to shift attention away from an important issue by introducing issue that has no logical connection to the discussion at hand53
6809899006HubrisExcessive pride54
6809901007humanismA belief that emphasizes faith and optimism in human potential and creativity.55
6809902488SatireA 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 writing56

AP Language Terminology Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
7227000959Allegorya story, poem, or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning0
7227000960Alliterationthe repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words1
7227000961AllusionA reference to a well-known person, place, event, literary work, or work of art2
7227000962AmbiguityAn event or situation that may be interpreted in more than one way.3
7227000963AntagonistA character or force in conflict with the main character4
7227000964AphorismA brief, cleverly worded statement that makes a wise observation about life.5
7227000965ApostropheAddressing something nonhuman as if it were human6
7227000966AssonanceRepetition of a vowel sound within two or more words in close proximity7
7227000967AttitudeA speaker's, author's, or character's disposition toward or opinion of a subject.8
7227000968Cacophonousharsh sounding9
7227000969Clichéan idea or expression that has become stale due to overuse10
7227000970ClimaxMost exciting moment of the story; turning point11
7227000971ColloquialCharacteristic of ordinary conversation rather than formal speech or writing12
7227000972ConflictA literary element that involves a struggle between two opposing forces usually a protagonist and an antagonist13
7227000973Connotationan idea or feeling that a word invokes in addition to its literal or primary meaning.14
7227000974ConsonanceRepetition of a consonant sound within two or more words in close proximity.15
7227000975DenotationThe dictionary definition of a word16
7227000976DénouementThe resolution that occurs at the end of a narrative or drama, real or imagined.17
7227000977DialectA regional variety of a language distinguished by vocabulary, spelling, and pronunciation.18
7227000978DialogueConversation between characters19
7227000979DictionA writer's or speaker's choice of words20
7227000980Epigrama rhetorical device that is a memorable, brief, interesting and surprising satirical statement21
7227000981Epigrapha quotation or aphorism at the beginning of a literary work suggestive of the theme.22
7227000982EuphemismAn indirect, less offensive way of saying something that is considered unpleasant23
7227000983Euphoniouspleasing to the ear24
7227000984ExpositionBeginning of a story or novel, provides important background information and introduces the characters25
7227000985Falling actionEvents after the climax, leading to the resolution26
7227000986Figures of Speechnon-literal language uses for effect such as simile, hyperbole, personification27
7227000987Flashbackpresent action is temporarily interrupted so that past events can be described28
7227000988Foreshadowinga warning or indication of a future event29
7227000989Hyperboleexaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally.30
7227000990Ironythe use of words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of its literal meaning31
7227000991MetaphorA comparison without using like or as32
7227000992MoodFeeling or atmosphere that a writer creates for the reader33
7227000993Objectivenot influenced by personal feelings or opinions in considering and representing facts34
7227000994OnomatopoeiaA word that imitates the sound it represents.35
7227000995OxymoronA figure of speech that combines opposite or contradictory terms in a brief phrase.36
7227000996ParadoxA statement that contradicts itself while holding truth to it37
7227000997Paraphraseexpressing the meaning of a work by using different words, usually for better clarity38
7227000998Parodya work which imitates another in a ridiculous manner39
7227000999PersonificationAttribution of a lifelike quality to an inanimate object or idea40
7227001000Point of ViewThe perspective from which a story is told41
7227001001ProtagonistMain character42
7227001002Rising ActionEvents leading up to the climax43
7227001003SatireA literary style used to make fun of or ridicule an idea or human vice or weakness44
7227001004SettingThe context in time and place in which the action of a story occurs.45
7227001005SimileA comparison using "like" or "as"46
7227001006SpeakerThe person or group who creates a text47
7227001007SubjectiveBased on personal opinions, feelings, and attitudes48
7227001008SyntaxThe arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences in a language.49
7227001009ThemeCentral idea of a work of literature50
7227001010Symbolanything that stands for or represents something else51
7227001011Thesisa statement or theory that is put forward as a premise to be maintained or proved.52
7227001012ToneAttitude a writer takes toward the audience, a subject, or a character53

AP World History Unit 1 Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
7266212441Paleoanthropologythe study of the earliest humans and their environment0
7266214160MythAn interpretive story of the past that cannot be verified historically but may have a deep moral message1
7266217141CasteA hierarchical ordering of people into groups, fixed from birth, based on their inherited ritual status and determining whomst they may marry and eat with2
7266221125TeleologyThe philosophical study of final causes or purposes. Teleology refers especially to any system that interprets nature or the universe as having a design or purpose. It has been used to provide evidence for the existence of God3
7266225991HominidAny of a family (Hominidae) of erect bipedal (two legged) primate mammals, which includes humans and human-like species4
7266229821Homo SapiensHomo, "human" is the genus in which modern humans are placed; sapiens means "wise"5
7266233556HomoerectusThe most widespread of all prehistoric hominids, and the most similar to humans. Evolved about 2 million years ago and became extinct 100,000 years ago6
7266239164B.PBefore the Present. Archaeologists frequently use this notation, especially for dates before about 20,000 BCE7
7266242358Homo Sapiens SapiensThe first human being of the modern type8
7266243328ShamanIn religious beliefs of some African, Asian, and American tribes, a person capable of entering into trances and believed to be endowed with supernatural powers, with the ability to cure the sick, find stolen property, predict the future, and protect the community from evil spirits. A ____ may act as a judge or priest, directs communal sacrifices and escorts the souls of the dead to the next world9
7267636482Neolithic"New Stone Age" the last division of the Stone Age, immediately preceding the development of metallurgy and corresponding to the 9th to the 5th millennia. It was characterized by the increasing domestication of animals, crops, established agricultural communities, and the appearance of such crafts as pottery and weaving10
7267653345InnovationThe explanation that similar cultural traits, techniques, or objects found among different groups of people were invented independently rather than spread from one group to another11
7267663387DiffusionThe spread of ideas, objects, or traits from one culture to another12
7267667610StateSeveral definitions; here used for the total political organizations of a group of people controlling their own territory13
7267674004ZigguratA temple tower of Mesopotamia, constructed of square or rectangular terraces of diminishing size, usually with a shrine on top built of blue enamel bricks, the color of the sky14
7267687735PrehistoryEverything that occurred before the invention of writing15
7267690949Pictogram(pictograph) A pictorial symbol or sign representing an object or concept16
7270197129CuneiformA writing system in use in the ancient Near East from around the end of the 4th millennia to the 1st century BC. The earliest examples are in Sumeria. The name derives from the wedge-shaped marks made by pressing the slanted edge of a stylus into soft clay17
7270210378Bas-ReliefIn sculpture, relief is a term for any work in which the forms stand out from the background. In ______, the design projects slightly from the background and the outlines are not outlined18
7270224580Ideogram(alternative: ideograph) A character or figure in a writing system in which the idea of a thing is represented rather than its name. Ex: Chinese19
7270232202HieroglyphsThe characters in a writing system based on the use of pictograms or ideograms. In ancient Egypt, hieroglyphs were largely used for monumental inscriptions. The symbols depict people, animals, objects, which represent words, syllables or sounds20
7270246860MastabaA low rectangular bench-like structure that covered a grave. The architectural forerunner to the pyramids21
7270253413TranshumanceThe practice of shifting residence and livestock between mountains and valleys to the season of the year22

AP World Chapter 13 Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
5488561649Caesaropapism (Political, Cultural; Pg. 320)the idea of combining the power of secular government with the religious power ex: Caesaropapism was the opposite of a theocracy because in this the government controlled the church instead of the church controlling the government0
5488561650Corpus iuris civilis (Political; Pg. 321)the collective title of the body of ancient Roman law as compiled and codified under the emperor Justinian in the 6th century a.d.: comprises the Digest, the Institutes, the Justinian Code, and the Novels.1
5488561651Greek fire (Interactions; 323)an incendiary weapon developed c. 672 and used by the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire. The Byzantines typically used it in naval battles to great effect, as it could continue burning while floating on water.2
5488561652Schism (Cultural; Pg. 335)the formal separation of a church into two churches or the secession of a group owing to doctrinal and other differences3
5488561653Saint Cyril (Cultural; Pg. 339)One of two brothers who were Byzantine Christian theologians and Christian missionaries4
5488561654Saint Methodius (Cultural; Pg. 3390One of two brothers who were Byzantine Christian theologians and Christian missionaries5
5488561655Sasanids (Political; Pg. 319)the last Iranian empire before the rise of Islam, ruled by and named after the Sasanian dynasty from 224 to 6516
5488561656Hagia Sophia (Cultural; Pg. 321)a Greek Orthodox Christian patriarchal basilica (church), later an imperial mosque, and now a museum in Istanbul. Was built by Justinian7
5488561657Theme system (Political; Pg.323)a method of providing troops for the Byzantine army. It was introduced by the emperor Constans around 650 AD8
5488561658Iconoclasm (Cultural, Political; Pg.332)the destruction of religious icons and other images or monuments for religious or political motives9
5488561659Fourth crusade (Political; Pg.337)a Western European armed expedition called by Pope Innocent III, originally intended to conquer Muslim-controlled Jerusalem by means of an invasion through Egypt. Instead, a sequence of events culminated in the Crusaders sacking the city of Constantinople, the capital of the Christian-controlled Byzantine Empire.10

AP Literature Vocabulary #6 Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
6391373591Elegya poem of serious reflection, usually a lament for the dead.0
6391375808Pastoral Elegya subsection of pastoral literature, a pastoral elegy is usually reflective of death combined with natural imagery.1
6391385984Ballada lyrical poem, originating in France as provincial songs that would originally be set to music and performed on stage.2
6391393040Modernisma cultural movement resulting from the "The Lost Generation's" participation in WWI. Introspection and the experimentation in the arts, music, and literature were highly encouraged. Surrealism, postmodernism, and absurdism are subgenres within modernism.3
6391415452Absurdisma philosophical idea that centers on the futility of man's struggle to carve meaning out of the chaotic nothingness of life.4
6391425638Kafkaesquean adjective used to derive similarities to themes present Franz Kafka's writings, specifically regarding becoming overwhelmed in bureaucracy, isolation from society, and surreal, nightmarish imagery.5
6391446755Literary Lensa specific way of interpreting a text (or part of a text) using specific ways of thinking.6
6391454232Motifa symbol or idea that repeats itself throughout the text in order to reinforce a larger theme.7
6391463838Dark Comedycomedy that mocks serious or taboo issues in a lighthearted or frivolous way.8
6391468626Meiosisa witty understatement or reaction that undercuts the emotional tension in a serious moment. use is often used to deliberately reduce the importance of something in order to highlight the importance in another.9

AP Language & Composition Summer Assignment Terms Flashcards

Terms : Hide Images
7098669409AlliterationThe repetition of the same sound or letter at the beginning of consecutive words or syllables.0
7098669410AllusionAn indirect reference, often to another text or an historic event.1
7098669411AnalogyAn extended comparison between two seemingly dissimilar things.2
7098669412AnaphoraThe repetition of words at the beginning of successive clauses.3
7098669413AnastropheAlso known as inversion, is a literary technique in which one changes the syntax (structure) of a sentence such that the subject, object, verb, adjectives, etc. are in an unusual grammatical order.4
7098669414AnecdoteA short account of an interesting event.5
7098669415AnnotationExplanatory or critical notes added to a text.6
7098669416AntecedentThe noun to which a later pronoun refers.7
7098669417AntimetaboleThe repetition of words in an inverted order to sharpen a contrast.8
7098669418AntithesisA kind of parallelism in which two opposite ideas are put together in parallel structures. The structures of phrases and clauses are similar in order to draw the attention of the listeners or readers.9
7098669419AphorismA short, astute statement of a general truth.10
7098669420AppositiveA word or phrase that renames a nearby noun or pronoun.11
7098669421Archaic dictionThe use of words common to an earlier time period; antiquated language.12
7098669422ArgumentA statement put forth and supported by evidence.13
7098669423Aristotelian triangleA diagram that represents a rhetorical situation as the relationship among the speaker, the subject, and the audience.14
7098669424AssertionAn emphatic statement; declaration. An assertion supported by evidence becomes an argument.15
7098669425AssumptionA belief or statement taken for granted without proof.16
7098669426AsyndetonLeaving out conjunctions between words, phrases, clauses.17
7098669427AttitudeThe speaker's position on a subject as revealed through his or her tone.18
7098669428AudienceOne's listener or readership; those to whom a speech or piece of writing is addressed.19
7098669429AuthorityA reliable, respected source—someone with knowledge.20
7098669430BiasPrejudice or predisposition toward one side of a subject or issue.21
7098669431Chiasmusa rhetorical or literary figure in which words, grammatical constructions, or concepts are repeated in reverse order, in the same or a modified form. The only condition of a chiasmic sentence is that the two clauses in the phrase are opposite in meanings.22
7098669432CiteIdentifying a part of a piece of writing as being derived from a source.23
7098669433ClaimAn assertion, usually supported by evidence.24
7098669434Close readingA careful reading that is attentive to organization, figurative language, sentence structure, vocabulary, and other literary and structural elements of a text.25
7098669435Colloquial/ismAn informal or conversational use of language.26
7098669436Common groundShared beliefs, values, or positions.27
7098669437Complex sentenceA sentence that includes one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.28
7098669438ConcessionA reluctant acknowledgment or yielding.29
7098669439ConduplicatioFigure of repetition in which the key word or words in one phrase, clause, or sentence is/are repeated at or very near the beginning of successive sentences, clauses, or phrases; repetition of a key word over successive phrases or clauses.30
7098669440ConnotationThat which is implied by a word, as opposed to the word's literal meaning (see denotation).31
7098669441ContextWords, events, or circumstances that help determine meaning.32
7098669442CounterargumentA challenge to a position; an opposing argument.33
7098669443Cumulative sentenceAn independent clause followed by subordinate clauses or phrases that supply additional detail.34
7098669444Declarative sentenceA sentence that makes a statement.35
7098669445DeductionReasoning from general to specific.36
7098669446DenotationThe literal meaning of a word; its dictionary definition.37
7098669447DictionWord choice.38
7098669448DocumentationBibliographic information about the sources used in a piece of writing.39
7098669449ElegiacMournful over what has passed or been lost; often used to describe tone.40
7098669450EpigramA brief witty statement.41
7098669451Epithetan adjective or descriptive phrase expressing a quality characteristic of the person or thing mentioned.42
7098669452EthosA Greek term referring to the character of a person; one of Aristotle's three rhetorical appeals.43
7098669453Figurative languageThe use of tropes or figures of speech; going beyond literal meaning to achieve literary effect.44
7098669454Figure of speechAn expression that strives for literary effect rather than conveying a literal meaning.45
7098669455HyperboleExaggeration for the purpose of emphasis.46
7098669456ImageryVivid use of language that evokes a reader's senses (sight, smell, taste, touch, hearing).47
7098669457Imperative sentenceA sentence that requests or commands.48
7098669458InductionReasoning from specific to general.49
7098669459InversionA sentence in which the verb precedes the subject.50
7098669460IronyA contradiction between what is said and what is meant; incongruity between action and result.51
7098669461JuxtapositionPlacement of two things side by side for emphasis.52
7098669462LitotesSimilar to understatement, emphasizing its point by using a word opposite to the condition.53
7098669463LogosA Greek term that means "word"; an appeal to logic; one of Aristotle's three rhetorical appeals.54
7098669464MetaphorA figure of speech or trope through which one thing is spoken of as though it were something else, thus making an implicit comparison.55
7098669465MetonymyUse of an aspect of something to represent the whole.56
7098669466OccasionAn aspect of context; the cause or reason for writing.57
7098669467OxymoronA figure of speech that combines two contradictory terms.58
7098669468ParadoxA statement that seems contradictory but is actually true.59
7098669469ParallelismThe repetition of similar grammatical or syntactical patterns.60
7098669470ParodyA piece that imitates and exaggerates the prominent features of another; used for comic effect or ridicule.61
7098669471PathosA Greek term that refers to suffering but has come to be associated with broader appeals to emotion; one of Aristotle's three rhetorical appeals.62
7098669472PersonaThe speaker, voice, or character assumed by the author of a piece of writing.63
7098669473PersonificationAssigning lifelike characteristics to inanimate objects.64
7098669474PolysyndetonThe deliberate use of a series of conjunctions.65
7098669475Premisemajor, minor Two parts of a syllogism. The concluding sentence of a syllogism takes its predicate from the major premise and its subject from the minor premise.66
7098669476Procatalepsisalso called prolepsis or prebuttal, is a figure of speech in which the speaker raises an objection to their own argument and then immediately answers it. By doing so, they hope to strengthen their argument by dealing with possible counter-arguments before their audience can raise them.67
7098669477PropagandaA negative term for writing designed to sway opinion rather than present information.68
7098669478PurposeOne's intention or objective in a speech or piece of writing.69
7098669479RefuteTo discredit an argument, particularly a counterargument.70
7098669480RhetoricThe study of effective, persuasive language use; according to Aristotle, use of the "available means of persuasion."71
7098669481Rhetorical modesPatterns of organization developed to achieve a specific purpose; modes include but are not limited to narration, description, comparison and contrast, cause and effect, definition, exemplification, classification and division, process analysis, and argumentation.72
7098669482Rhetorical questionA question asked more to produce an effect than to summon an answer.73
7098669483Rhetorical triangleA diagram that represents a rhetorical situation as the relationship among the speaker, the subject, and the audience.74
7098669484SatireAn ironic, sarcastic, or witty composition that claims to argue for something, but actually argues against it.75
7098669485SchemeA pattern of words or sentence construction used for rhetorical effect.76
7098669486Sentence patternsThe arrangement of independent and dependent clauses into known sentence constructions—such as simple, compound, complex, or compound-complex.77
7098669487SententiaFigure of argument in which a wise, witty, or pithy maxim or aphorism is used to sum up the preceding material.78
7098669488SimileA figure of speech that uses "like" or "as" to compare two things.79
7098669489Simple sentenceA statement containing a subject and predicate; an independent clause.80
7098669490SourceA book, article, person, or other resource consulted for information.81
7098669491SpeakerA term used for the author, speaker, or the person whose perspective (real or imagined) is being advanced in a speech or piece of writing.82
7098669492Straw manA logical fallacy that involves the creation of an easily refutable position; misrepresenting, then attacking an opponent's position.83
7098669493StyleThe distinctive quality of speech or writing created by the selection and arrangement of words and figures of speech.84
7098669494SubjectIn rhetoric, the topic addressed in a piece of writing.85
7098669495Subordinate clauseCreated by a subordinating conjunction, a clause that modifies an independent clause.86
7098669496SubordinationThe dependence of one syntactical element on another in a sentence.87
7098669497SyllogismA form of deductive reasoning in which the conclusion is supported by a major and minor premise.88
7098669498SyntaxSentence structure.89
7098669499SynthesizeCombining or bringing together two or more elements to produce something more complex.90
7098669500ThesisThe central idea in a work to which all parts of the work refer.91
7098669501Thesis statementA statement of the central idea in a work, may be explicit or implicit.92
7098669502ToneThe speaker's attitude toward the subject or audience.93
7098669503Topic sentenceA sentence, most often appearing at the beginning of a paragraph, that announces the paragraph's idea and often unites it with the work's thesis.94
7098669504Tricolona rhetorical term for a series of three words, phrases, clauses, or sentences that are parallel in structure, length and/or rhythm.95
7098669505TropeArtful diction; the use of language in a nonliteral way; also called a figure of speech.96
7098669506UnderstatementLack of emphasis in a statement or point; restraint in language often used for ironic effect.97
7098669507VoiceIn grammar, a term for the relationship between a verb and a noun (active or passive voice). In rhetoric, a distinctive quality in the style and tone of writing.98
7098669508ZeugmaA construction in which one word (usually a verb) modifies or governs—often in different, sometimes incongruent ways—two or more words in a sentence.99

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