Stylistic Devices: An Illustrated Primer, Part IV

Post 2/3 discussing the stylistic devices related to syntax.

Appositive: One of the few devices we still learn by name in school, it is the use of a noun to modify or provide additional information about another noun.  Commas are usually appended to each end of the appositive in a sentence.

Fig. 3.2. Appositive

Disjunctio: A list of different verbs (preferably alliterative) w/ similar meanings connected in successive clauses recounts the actions of a single subject.

Fig. 3.3. Disjunctio

Epiplexis: A series of aggressively posed rhetorical questions.

Fig. 3.4. Epiplexis

Hyperbaton: A certain word or idea is highlighted by the use of unorthodox word order.  Best used sparingly…unless you are Yoda.

Fig. 3.5. Hyperbaton

Writing

appositive, disjunctio, epiplexis, hyperbaton, persuasive writing/speaking, rhetoric, sentence structure, stylistic devices, syntax

26/01/2011

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