Vocabulary: Syntax and Diction

Question 1

syntax: sentence structure

Answer 1

• used to analyze how the author orders sentences to create certain effects
• this is true for all forms of writing

Question 2

diction: word choice

Answer 2

• used the analyze what the author chooses to do with words in the text
• used to analyze what types of words the author chooses to use in a text

Question 3

be sure to “characterize” how the author uses syntax and diction

Answer 3

• don’t just say “the author uses diction/syntax”

- characterize the type of diction or syntax used E.g.” The author uses authoritative diction

Question 4

the definition of “diction” is

Answer 4

the author’s choice of words

Question 5

the definition of “syntax” is

Answer 5

the structure of a sentence

Question 6

the kind of syntax an author can use is determined by

Answer 6

the author

Question 7

I struggled to open the jar. It gave way at last, and I had jam. Now, I only needed butter…

Answer 7

simple, “conversational” diction

Question 8

The water morphed the sunlight and occasionally flung bright bursts of light….

Answer 8

eloquent diction, or word choice

Question 9

what does it mean to characterize HOW an author uses syntax or diction

Answer 9

it is an explanation of the type of diction or syntax used by the author

Question 10

what is needed in order to effectively analyze literature?

Answer 10

a common vocabulary