Rhetorical Devices (C-H)

a principle demanding that the parts of any composition be arranged so thatthe meaning of the whole may be immediately clear and intelligible.

the non-literal, associative meaning of a word; the implied, suggestedmeaning. May involve ideas, emotions, or attitudes.

the strict, literal, dictionary definition of a word, devoid of any emotion,attitude, or color.

related to style, diction refers to the writer’s word choices, especially withregard to their correctness, clearness, or effectiveness.

from the Greek, didactic literally means “teaching.” Didactic works havethe primary aim of teaching or instructing, especially the teaching of moral or ethicalprinciples.

a more agreeable or less offensive substitute for a generally unpleasantword or concept.

in essays, the purpose of exposition is to explain something. In drama theexposition is introductory material, which creates tone, gives the setting, and introducesthe characters and conflict.

a metaphor developed at great length, occurring frequently in orthroughout a work.

writing or speech that is not intended to carry literal meaning andis usually meant to be imaginative and vivid.

a device used to produce figurative language. Many comparedissimilar things.

this term literally means “sermon,” but more informally it can include anyserious talk, speech, or lecture involving moral or spiritual advice.

a figure of speech using deliberate exaggeration or overstatement.Hyperboles often produce a comic effect or irony; however, a serious effect is possible.