Rhetorical Strategies and their Functions Q. What are rhetorical strategies? A. Rhetorical strategies are techniques writers use for a particular effect. Though the metaphor may sound somewhat crude, all writers draw from a ?toolbox? of rhetorical strategies as they express ideas to evoke responses in their readers. Here?s a list of a number of rhetorical strategies and their general function. Add to the list as you see additional ones in your reading. DEVICE FUNCTION 1. analogy to make a pointed comparison, often a very powerful comparison 2. metaphor same 3. simile same 4. hyperbole to provoke a response to cast something in a strong light