Rhetoric Glossary

Repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses for rhetorical emphasis.

Juxtaposition of contrasting ideas in balanced phrases or clauses to create emphasis.

A speech or text in which a speaker defends their actions, beliefs, or character against accusation.

The second canon of rhetoric, concerning the organization and sequencing of arguments for maximum effect.

The intended or actual recipients of a rhetorical message who can be influenced or moved to action.

A rhetorical figure in which the second half of an expression reverses the structure of the first half.

A widely accepted belief, value, or argument that a rhetor can draw upon as shared ground with the audience.

Rhetoric aimed at influencing future action, typically used in political and legislative contexts.

The fifth canon of rhetoric, concerning vocal quality, gesture, posture, and physical presentation of a speech.

A rhetorical syllogism in which one premise is left unstated, relying on the audience's shared knowledge.

Ceremonial rhetoric that praises or blames, used in eulogies, commemorations, and award speeches.

A rhetorical appeal based on the speaker's credibility, character, and moral authority.

The urgent problem, need, or situation that prompts a rhetorical response.

Rhetoric concerned with past events, typically used in legal or judicial settings to establish fact and assign blame.

Deliberate exaggeration used for emphasis or rhetorical effect, not intended to be taken literally.

The first canon of rhetoric, involving the discovery and development of arguments and evidence.

The opportune or timely moment for rhetorical action, dependent on context and audience readiness.

A rhetorical appeal based on logic, evidence, and rational argument.

A figure of speech that describes one thing in terms of another to create a vivid comparison or new understanding.

A rhetorical appeal to the audience's emotions, values, or desires.

A question asked for persuasive effect rather than to elicit an answer, often implying a self-evident conclusion.

A systematic method for determining the central issue in a dispute through four questions: conjecture, definition, quality, and policy.

The third canon of rhetoric, concerning word choice, sentence structure, figurative language, and tone.

A form of deductive reasoning consisting of a major premise, minor premise, and conclusion.

A commonplace or standard line of argument that a rhetor can use as a starting point for invention. Plural: topoi.