What is Ambiguity? Ambiguity Definition Ambiguity is when a word, phrase, statement, or idea has more than one meaning or can be understood in more than one way. Ambiguity typically creates a feeling of vagueness, uncertainty, or even confusion. This…
Category: Literary Devices
Rhetoric
What is Rhetoric? Rhetoric Definition Rhetoric is used in speech and writing to make a specific impact on the audience/reader. Rhetoric often relies on language and composition techniques to create an effect that is intended to: persuade convince influence entertain…
Red Herring
What is a Red Herring? Red Herring Definition A red herring refers to a misleading or false clue. Red herrings are used to intentionally create a false trail and/or mislead audiences to prevent them from correctly predicting a story’s outcome…
Parody
What is Parody? Parody Definition A parody is an imitation of the style of something that is deliberately exaggerated to create a comedic effect. Common parodies include imitations of an artist, musician, or writer’s style, or even a type of…
Comparison
What is a Comparison? Comparison Definition A comparison is a consideration of the similarities or differences between two things. Comparisons can be made between people, places, ideas, or other entities. Making a comparison can highlight how two things are alike…
Onomatopoeia
What is Onomatopoeia? Onomatopoeia Definition Onomatopoeia indicates a word that sounds like what it refers to or describes. The letter sounds combined in the word mimic the natural sound of the object or action, such as hiccup. A word is…
Epiphany
What is an Epiphany? Epiphany Definition An epiphany is a sudden realization or discovery that illuminates a new perception or awareness. Epiphany is often used to describe a rapid feeling of clarity or insight in terms of finding an essential…
Flashback
What is a Flashback? Flashback Definition A flashback is a device used in stories, films, television episodes, etc., that interrupts the flow of the plot to “show” readers/viewers an event that happened previously. Most flashbacks are utilized to provide background…