Stylistic Devices

1. What is it? Irony exists in many forms, all of which work around the idea of a thing being one manner on the surface but much different – or even the opposite – underneath. Irony is used in all literature, but especially novels. Verbal irony Say one thing, but…

1. What is it? Chiasmus is a statement or question formed by reversing the parts of a sentence. It is most often used in speeches. 2. Why use it? Make a sentence more interesting and memorable. Highlight a point through the use of memorable, stylish syntax. 3. Examples Looking at…

1. What is it? A euphemism is an inoffensive word or phrase used in place of an offensive, rude or taboo one. Importantly, although a euphemism is used, the audience knows what the original word was. Euphemisms are used in any circumstance or writing that deals with a difficult subject…

1. What is it? Parallelism is a technique of ‘balancing’ sentences – meaning all sections are similar in pattern or structure – by repeating a structure or words. It is most commonly used in speeches, poetry, and advertising. 2. Why use it? Make sentences easier to remember. Emphasise a point…

1. What is it? An analogy is the use of one idea, event or relationship to explain another. It is most commonly done by comparing a difficult idea to a simple idea that can be easily understood. An analogy that extends to an entire story is called an allegory. They…

1. What is it? Anaphora is the repeating of the same words or phrases at the beginning of clauses. It appears in speeches, poetry, or prose in which style is important. 2. Why use it? Add style and rhythm to make words memorable. Emphasise a point through repetition. 3. Examples This…

1. What is it? A metaphor uses the ideas and characteristics of one object or situation to describe another object or situation. An extended metaphor – one that carries on the metaphor across several ideas, or goes into great depth – is called conceit. Metaphors are commonly found in poetry,…

1. What is it? Consonance is the repeating of consonant sounds throughout a sentence or phrase.Assonance is the repeating of vowel sounds throughout a sentence or phrase. Unlike alliteration or rhyme, consonance and assonance do not have to happen at the beginning or end of a word. They can occur…

1. What is it? Oxymorons are descriptions that combine two words that are completely opposite. Literary paradoxes are groups of sentences or phrases that contain contradictions that appear to defy logic but suggest great depth, truth and wisdom. Some oxymorons have become part of everyday speech. Because oxymorons can be quite…

1. What is it? Sarcasm is using an ironic tone so that everybody knows the words are insincere. The words should not be taken literally. Indeed, because the tone says ‘I do not mean this’, the meaning is probably the opposite. It is generally used in conversation and spoken word.…