Stylistic Devices in Literature

A method or technique used to create a specific effect in writing.

A comparison between two unlike things without using "like" or "as".

Giving human qualities to animals, objects, or ideas.

A comparison between two unlike things using "like" or "as".

The repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words.

Repeating words or phrases to emphasize a point.

Language that appeals to the senses.

Repeating the same word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses to create emphasis.

A line break in poetry where syntax continues onto the next line without punctuation.

The listing of words, phrases or ideas, typically with numbers or bullet points for clarity.

The use of similar grammatical structures to express related ideas, creating a sense of balance and rhythm.

The arrangement of words in a sentence to create meaning.

A literary device that uses a list of words or phrases with similar meanings to emphasize or describe something further.

A comparison between two things that are similar in some aspects to make an explanation clearer or more accessible.

The use of words or phrases to create a specific sound or auditory effect in a text.

The use of words or phrases to evoke a sense of motion or movement in a reader.

Sound imagery is achieved through the use of words that evoke specific sounds, such as onomatopoeia, alliteration, and assonance.

Movement imagery is achieved through the use of words that convey a sense of motion, such as verbs of action, adverbs, and descriptive language.

An example of accumulation is the listing of names in Shakespeare's Henry V, which emphasizes the strength and stature of King Harry.

An example of analogy is Juliet's statement about Romeo in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, where she compares him to a rose, suggesting that his essence remains the same regardless of his name.

An example of sound imagery is the repetition of 't's and 'r's in Owen's 'Anthem for Doomed Youth,' mimicking the sound of rifles firing.

Using a strong overstatement to create a serious or comic effect.

A single phrase containing an exaggeration.

Using words to mean the opposite of their literal meaning, often to mock or criticize.

Strong contrast of opposing ideas, often introduced by words like 'but,' 'however,' or 'nevertheless.'

A question with an obvious answer, used to emphasize a point or persuade the reader.

A direct or indirect reference to something familiar, like a book, event, or person, that the reader is expected to recognize.

Allusions enrich meaning by drawing connections between the text and outside references, making it more engaging and thought-provoking.

An overused expression that has lost its original meaning due to excessive use.

Clichés can make writing sound uncreative and dull, lacking originality and impact.