Allusion
an indirect or passing reference
Paradox
statement that shouldn't make sense but does
Allegory
small story with a big meaning
Dialogue
Conversation between two or more characters
Simile
direct comparison using like or as
Metaphor
a figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable.
Symbol
A thing that represents or stands for something else, especially a material object representing something abstract.
Metonymy
the substitution of the name of an attribute or adjunct for that of the thing meant
Onomatopoeia
A word that imitates the sound it represents.
Imagery
visually descriptive or figurative language, especially in a literary work.
Hyperbole
exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally.
Irony
the expression of one's meaning by using language that normally signifies the opposite, typically for humorous or emphatic effect.
Satire
the use of humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to expose and criticize people's stupidity or vices, particularly in the context of contemporary politics and other topical issues.
Consonance
Repetition of consonant sounds
Assonance
Repetition of vowel sounds
Alliteration
Repetition of beginning sounds
Personification
the giving of human qualities to an animal, object, or idea
Apostrophe
address to an absent or imaginary person
Foreshadowing
the use of hints and clues to suggest what will happen later in a plot
atmosphere
overall feeling
theme
Central idea of a work of literature
Motif
A recurring theme, subject or idea
Meter
A regular pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in a line of poetry
tagline
A catchphrase designed to sum up the essence of a product.
Repetition
Repeated use of sounds, words, or ideas for effect and emphasis