Rhetorical devices
Recognise and use classical rhetorical devices: anaphora, antithesis, chiasmus, tricolon, rhetorical questions, hyperbole and litotes.
In this lesson you will
- Identify major rhetorical devices
- Explain their effect
- Use them sparingly in speech and writing
Learn
Anaphora: repeating words at the start of clauses: We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds… Creates rhythm and insistence.
Antithesis: contrasting ideas in parallel structure: It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. Chiasmus: reversing structure: Ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.
Tricolon: three parallel elements, often growing in length: faster, fairer and far more sustainable. Rhetorical question: Can we really afford to wait? Hyperbole: deliberate exaggeration: I’ve told you a million times.
Use with judgement: one or two devices in a speech or essay add power; too many feel manipulative or theatrical. Always ask: does the device serve the meaning?
Examples
- Not a cost, but an investment; not a burden, but an opportunity. (antithesis + parallelism)
- We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing. (chiasmus)
- Every child, every school, every community. (anaphora + tricolon)
Vocabulary
anaphora
repetition at the start of clauses
antithesis
contrast in parallel structure
chiasmus
reversal of structure (AB–BA)
tricolon
a series of three
hyperbole
deliberate exaggeration
Practice
“Eat to live, don’t live to eat” is…
Speaking
Write and deliver a 60-second persuasive speech opening on a cause you care about, using anaphora, antithesis and a tricolon.
Writing
Analyse a famous speech extract of your choice (or an imaginary one you write, 80 words): identify three devices and explain their effect in 150–180 words.
Lesson quiz
Repeating words at the start of clauses is…
Review
Key points
- Anaphora, antithesis, chiasmus.
- Tricolon, rhetorical questions, hyperbole, litotes.
- Explain effect.
- Use sparingly.
What you learned
- ✓ I recognise rhetorical devices.
- ✓ I explain their effect.
- ✓ I use them with judgement.