Language devices

• anaphora

  • when words repeat at the beginning of consecutive lines in poetry
  • used like alliteration to create emphasis and draw the eye of the reader
  • creates then and injects emotion
• assonance

  • repetition of a similar vowel in consecutive words or words in close proximity
  • creates rhythm
  • allows reader to interpret a sentence the way the author intended by making it clear which vowel should be stressed
• caesura

  • stopping in the middle of a metrical line
  • commas, dashes or colons
  • gives a choppy, dysfunctional tone to the text
  • increases reading pace which builds tension and relays feeling of frustration and confusion
• consonance

  • repetition of similar consonant sounds in consecutive words or words in close procomity
  • creates rhythm
  • makes sentence more pleasing to the ear increasing reader engagement
• enjambment

  • when a sentence continues beyond the end of a line without the use of punctuation
  • increases pace of a section by forcing the reader to continue without a break
  • builds tension and suspense
• euphemism

  • language used to imply something unpleasant or impolite
  • euphemisms are used to mask the impoliteness or rudeness of a remark
• hyperbole

  • figurative speech used for exaggeration
  • adds an element of comedy and amusement
  • allows the writer to add excitement to a tedious or mundane subject
• imagery

  • visually descriptive language used to appeal to the readers senses
  • increases readers engagement allowing them to use imagination
• juxtaposition

  • two opposing things placed next to each other for contrast
  • draw attention to differences
• onomatopoeia

  • words that sound like the sounds they are describing
  • add depth to the text
  • engages the readers senses
  • encourages deeper emotional involvement
• oxymoron

  • a figure of speech in which 2 contradictory terms are used consecutively
  • draw readers attention
  • create an element of confusing
  • causes readers to stop and ponder the meaning
• paradox

  • a contradictory statement
  • created a sense of confusion for discomfort and can contrast 2 ideas
• pathos

  • evoking a certain feeling in the reader
  • used for sadness and pity
  • appeals to readers emotions
  • strengthens connections between reader and text
• plosive sounds

  • harsh sounds associated with letters p, t, k, b, d, and g which interrupt airflow by closing the mouth
  • help convey complex emotions like frustration and anger
• sibilance

  • repetition of hissing sounds
  • draws attention to certain phrases or sentences
  • creates a negative atmosphere