Language Techniques

1. Word and Phrase Techniques

  • Alliteration – Repetition of consonant sounds at the start of words.
    Example: Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers.
  • Assonance – Repetition of vowel sounds in nearby words.
    Example: The early bird catches the worm.
  • Onomatopoeia – Words that imitate sounds.
    Example: Bang, crash, hiss.
  • Metaphor – Comparing two things without using “like” or “as.”
    Example: Time is a thief.
  • Simile – Comparing two things using “like” or “as.”
    Example: Her smile was as bright as the sun.
  • Personification – Giving human qualities to non-human things.
    Example: The wind whispered through the trees.
  • Hyperbole – Exaggeration for effect.
    Example: I’ve told you a million times.
  • Pun – A play on words, often humorous.
    Example: I used to be a baker, but I couldn’t make enough dough.

2. Sentence and Structure Techniques

  • Repetition – Repeating words or phrases to emphasize a point.
  • Rhetorical question – A question asked for effect, not requiring an answer.
  • Exclamation – Shows strong feeling or emphasis.
  • Short sentences – Create tension, speed, or impact.
  • Long sentences – Build description or create a flowing, detailed effect.
  • Listing – Using multiple items in a list for emphasis.
  • Parenthesis / Brackets / Dashes – Adds extra information or commentary.

3. Sound Techniques

  • Rhyme – Repetition of similar sounds at the ends of words.
  • Rhythm / Cadence – The beat or flow of a sentence.
  • Refrain – A repeated line or phrase, often in poetry or speeches.

4. Imagery Techniques

  • Visual imagery – Describes what can be seen.
  • Auditory imagery – Describes what can be heard.
  • Olfactory imagery – Describes smells.
  • Tactile imagery – Describes touch or texture.
  • Gustatory imagery – Describes taste.

5. Persuasive / Rhetorical Techniques

  • Emotive language – Words that evoke strong feelings.
  • Statistics / Facts – Used to persuade with evidence.
  • Direct address – Speaking directly to the reader (you/your).
  • Triplets / Rule of three – Using three words/phrases for emphasis.
  • Contrast / Juxtaposition – Showing opposing ideas to highlight differences.

6. Literary Techniques

  • Irony – Saying one thing but meaning the opposite.
  • Sarcasm – Sharp, often mocking humor.
  • Foreshadowing – Hinting at what will happen later.
  • Symbolism – Using an object or idea to represent something else.
  • Allegory – A story with a hidden meaning, often moral or political.
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