Language Techniques Flashcards
Imagery
Using language to paint a picture for the reader
Simile
Similes are a kind of descriptive language device that compares two things to create a vivid image in the readers mind.
Metaphor
Whilst similes create more of a direct and literal effect, a metaphor is a form of figurative language that directly compares one thing to another
‘The cat had eyes of moonlight’
Personification
Personification is a language device in which human characteristics, including thoughts, feelings or actions are given to something non-human
‘The stars danced in the sky’
Pathetic fallacy
Pathetic fallacy is a language technique in which human emotions are given to inanimate objects. This technique is commonly used with objects or aspects of nature
-the sun beamed down on Mary’s face and warmed her body from head to toe
In this use of pathetic fallacy, the sunby weather represents the Mary’s happiness
Hyperbole
Hyperbole is the name given to an exaggerated phrase. If language is said to be hyperbolic, it is over the top and not intended to be taken seriously
Symbolism
Use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities. Lots of different things can be used as symbols, such as colours, places, sounds and objects
-Red is often a symbol of danger, so if a building is painted red in a text, we get then sense it is not a safe place
Consonance
Consonance is simply the repetition of consonants throughout a sentence or phrase. Consonant sounds are often harsh and abrupt and so can be used to create a coarse, grating tone in a text.
The car tore through the street at an alarming speed
Alliteration
When two or more words that start with the Sam’s sound are used repeatedly in a phrase or sentence.
This form of repetition creates am eye catching or memorable effect
Alliteration can make your words more engaging and entertaining.
‘The bird sang sweetly’
Assonance
Assonance is what we cal it when two words that occur in a sentence share the same vowel sounds, but the consonants are different. This creates a type of alliteration and flow to the text but can be used to amplify meaning
Make sure to go slowly over the road bumps
The assonance here is is in the long ‘o’ sound
Anaphora
The repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of a sentence or sentences. This can be used to create a dramatic effect and a great sense of rhythm, within a piece of writing
- I wish you didn’t have to go. I wish you wanted to stay. I wish things didn’t have to change
Tone
Tone is a way of writing that is used to create a specific mood or feeling in a text. This mood can be anything from shock, happiness, anxiety, inspiration and sorrow
Paradox
A paradox is a statement that only seems like it contradicts itself but actually doesn’t
Aside
An aside is any speech delivered directly to the audience as a representation of a characters thoughts. Aaodes can be as short as a brief comment or as long as a whole speech
Asides, like soliloquies, serve to reveal to reveal character information through personal thoughts that could not be shared through straightforward action.
The audience therefore, may begin to feel involved and invested in the play, enhancing through dramatic experience
Dramatic irony
When the reader knows a secret but the characters in a play or work of fiction do not. Therefore, the words or actions of a character carry a special meaning for the reader but are understood differently by the character. The characters are blind to the facts but the reader is not
