Unit 2: Part 3 Literary Terms

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Full list of words from this list:

words only definitions & notes
  1. figurative
    not literal
    Figurative language, which is also called figures of speech, is language that is used imaginatively instead of literally.
  2. figure of speech
    language used in a nonliteral sense
    Figurative language, which is also called figures of speech, is language that is used imaginatively instead of literally.
  3. metaphor
    a figure of speech that suggests a non-literal similarity
    Metaphor: a stated similarity between two or more unlike things that does not use the words like or as
    Example: "Society is a joint-stock company."
  4. synecdoche
    using part of something to refer to the whole thing
    Synecdoche: the use of a part of something to stand for the whole
    Example: "the shot heard round the world" [The shot stands in for the whole of the Revolutionary War and the spread of American revolutionary ideals.]
  5. imagery
    the use of vivid sensory language in literature
    He also uses imagery, or word pictures, and is sensitive to the sounds of words.
  6. challenge
    take exception to
    As you read, check your understanding of Emerson's ideas by challenging, or questioning, the text.
  7. question
    challenge the accuracy, probity, or propriety of
    As you read, check your understanding of Emerson's ideas by challenging, or questioning, the text.
  8. style
    a mode of expression typical of a person, group, or period
    An author's style is the unique manner in which he or she puts thoughts into words.
  9. tone
    a quality that reveals the attitudes of the author
    Thoreau's style has a conversational tone, or attitude, as though he is talking to a friend.
  10. analogy
    drawing a comparison in order to show a similarity
    Next, he uses an analogy, an extended comparison of relationships: "Our life is like a German Confederacy, made up of petty states..."
  11. critical
    characterized by careful evaluation and judgment
    Write a critical evaluation of "Self-Reliance." Include a summary of Emerson's points, an assessment of his uses of stylistic devices, such as imagery and figurative language, and a statement of your opinion.
  12. editorial
    an article giving opinions or perspectives
    Write an editorial—a persuasive article—in which you argue for or against the relevance of Thoreau's ideas of simplicity in today's world.
  13. synonym
    a word that expresses the same or similar meaning
    Synonyms are words that have the same or nearly the same meaning.
  14. persuasive
    intended or having the power to induce action or belief
    In an argument, or persuasive essay, you present a well-reasoned position or opinion.
Created on Mon Oct 19 16:25:10 EDT 2020 (updated Thu Oct 22 13:31:55 EDT 2020)

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