Language Techniques Flashcards
Allusion
An indirect reference to another text. “ ‘The Simpsons’ often alludes to popular films “
Analogy
explaining by citing a parallel-analogies don’t claim total identification with the object cited, just a similarity. “ Our brains are computers, they can store information, calculate possibilities and cross reference items. “
Assonance
The repetition of vowel sounds. “ Her eyes were like fires in the night. “
Cliche
An over-used phrase or opinion. “ Opposites attract, time will tell etc. “
Colloquial Language
Language that is informal and conversational.
Derogatory Language
Used with the intention of insulting someone or something.
Emotive Language
Language used specifically to engage the reader’s emotions.
Formal Language
Language that is used in serious situations and contexts.
Idiom
A phrase with meaning that cannot be understood on a literal level. “ To ‘pull your socks up’ commonly means to try harder at something “
Informal Language
Language suitable to casual or familiar situations.
Irony
An event that is the opposite of what one might expect. “ The mobile mechanic broke down on the way to assist. “
Jargon
Specialised, technical language specific to a group. “ The aorta originates in the left ventricle of the heart and ends in the abdomen (Medical). “
Metaphor
A direct reference between two things. “ The road was a long, dark ribbon. “
Personification
Applying human characteristics to non-human things. “ The entire neighbourhood had begun to look tired. “`
Pun
A joke based on the different meaning or application of words, where more than one meaning is implied. A play on words. “ You have dancing shoes with nimble soles; I have a soul of lead (Romeo, ‘Romeo and Juliet’)
