French Figures de style

Antith�se

Figure that presents two contrary terms

Gradation

Mark progression using present term in ascending or descending order

Comparaison

Comparison using like or as

M�taphore

Draw parallel between two elements

Hyperbole

Exaggeration

Euph�misme

Replacing a word with one that is less harsh

Personnification

Giving an object human like characteristics

Parall�lisme

Two sentences constructed in the same way

Anaphore

Repetition of word or phrase for emphasis

Litote

Affirmative is expressed by the negative of its contrary

Chiasme

Presented to the reader or hearer, then presented again in reverse order, in order to make a larger point

Oxymore

Paradox/Exaggeration

All�gorie

Interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one.

Synesth�sie

Figurative language that includes a mixing of senses

Ellipse

Mission of words whose absence does not impede the reader's ability to understand the expression

M�tonymie/Synecdoque

The substitution of the name of an attribute or adjunct for that of the thing meant

Assonance

Repetition of the sound of a vowel

Allit�ration

Occurrence of the same letter or sound at the beginning