Alliteration
A series of words or phrases that all start with the same sound. Typically consonants
Allusion
When the author makes a direct reference to something inside of their work, usually a historical reference to another famous work
Anachronism
Intentional error in the chronology or timeline of a text. Like when technology or slang appear in the text before the time period that they were invented
Colloquialism
Use of informal language and slang to make the characters talk more realistically
Euphemism
More mild or indirect word choice as opposed to stating something more bluntly or directly (ex. downsizing)
Foreshadowing
when an author indirectly hints at upcoming events through current dialogue/description
Hyperbole
Exaggerated statement that is not meant to be taken literally
Imagery
when an author describes a scene, thing, or idea so that it appeals to the senses
Irony
the expression of one's meaning by using language that normally signifies the opposite, typically for humorous or emphatic effect.
Verbal irony
when someone says one thing but means the opposite
Situational irony
when something happens that is the opposite of what is expected to happen or intended to happen
Dramatic irony
when the audience is aware of the true intentions or outcomes, while the characters are not
Cosmic Irony
A type of situational irony dealing with the perception that gods or fate toys with aspirations and deeds
Juxtaposition
two things being seen or placed close together with contrasting effect.
Metaphor
A direct comparison of two unlike things by identification or substitution
Simile
comparison using “like” or “as”
Metonymy
When a related word or phrase is substituted for the actual thing to which it’s referring (ie. the crown)
Onomatopoeia
A word or group of words that represents a sound
Oxymoron
A combination of two contradictory words that illustrates a paradox
Paradox
A statement that appears illogical or self-contradictory, but upon investigation, might prove to be true or plausible
Personification
When a nonhuman object is compared to have human-like characteristics
Symbolism
An object, figure, event, situation, or an idea that represents something else in the context of a written work
Synecdoche
part of something is used to represent a whole, or vice versa (ex. I need a hand)
Apostrophe
addressing a person or personified object not present (ex. Little Lamb, who made thee?)
Anthropomorphism
ascribing human emotions and characteristics to animals or inanimate objects.
Litotes
Understatement for effect (ex. he’s not the cleanest person)
anecdote
a short, personal story used to illustrate a point or make a concept more relatable. It is often used in writing or speeches to provide examples or add interest to the content.