Linguistics and Writing Systems
word formed from successive initials or groups of letters, as NATO
comparison between like features of two things that are otherwise dissimilar
word of opposite meaning
appropriate to casual rather than formal speech or writing
pronunciation or words peculiar to an area
resource that lists the words of a language with their meanings
expression peculiar to a language
vocabulary meaningful only to a particular profession or group
the study of meaning in language
word meaning the same as another
the arrangement of words into sentences and phrases
short essay; subject of discussion or art
language used locally or in everyday speech
Literary Characters and Practitioners
antagonist
adversary of the hero or protagonist of a drama or other literary work
archetype
original pattern or model
character
person in a novel, play, etc.
hero
the main typically male character in a story, play, etc.
heroine
main female character in a story, play, etc.
muse
the inspiration motivating a poet, artist, etc.
protagonist
the main character
pseudonym
fictitious name used by an author to conceal his or her identity; pen name
Literature Devices, Techniques, and Elements
repetition of the same sound at the beginning of two or more words
a passing or casual reference to a person, place, or literary work
thing that belongs to a time period other than that in which it is placed
contrast; direct opposite
similarity of sound in words or syllables
harsh, discordant sound
the release of the emotions, as through art
trite expression
decisive moment in a plot
the subjects in a book, document, etc.
what comes before or follows a word or statement and influences its meaning
conversation between two or more people
descriptive term
class or category of artistic work
excessive pride
obvious exaggeration
mental images collectively
the use of words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of the literal meaning
placing expressions or ideas close together, for comparison or contrast
word or phrase applied to an object or concept in order to suggest comparison
the rhythmic element in music and poetry
talk by a single speaker
recurring subject or theme
story or account of events
the formation of a word by the imitation of a sound
the quality or power of arousing pity
attributing a human character or quality to an animal, idea, or thing
the main story of a novel, play, etc.
recurring passage in a song or poem
the locale and period of a story, play, etc.
speech in a play in which a character speaks as if alone
division of a poem
thing that represents something else
brief summary
