Diction

Refers to language that denotes ideas, emotions,

conditions, or concepts that are intangible.

• Abstract Diction

• Informal Diction

• Concrete Diction

• Neutral Diction

Contains language that creates an elevated tone. It is free of slang, idioms, colloquialisms, and contractions. It often contains polysyllabic words, sophisticated syntax, and elegant word choice.

• Abstract Diction

• Informal Diction

• Formal Diction

• Neutral Diction

The language of everyday use. It is relaxed and conversational. It often includes common and simple words, idioms, slang, jargon, and contractions.

• Abstract Diction

• Informal Diction

• Formal Diction

• Neutral Diction

Refers to a group of recently coined words often used in informal situations. These words often come and go quickly, passing in and out of usage within months or years.

• Abstract Diction

• Slang

• Dialect

• Jargon

A nonstandard subgroup of a language with its own vocabulary and grammatical features. Writers often use this regional language to reveal a person's economic or social class.

• Formal Diction

• Neutral Diction

• Dialect

• Colloquial expressions

Words and expressions characteristic of a particular trade,

profession, or pursuit.

• Denotation

• Dialect

• Jargon

• Neutal Diction

Uses standard language and vocabulary without elaborate words and may include contractions.

• Abstract Diction

• Informal Diction

• Concrete Diction

• Neutal Diction

The implicit rather than explicit meaning of a word; consists

of the suggestions, associations, and emotional overtones attached to a word.

• Connotation

• Informal Diction

• Formal Diction

• Denotation

Nonstandard, often regional, ways of using

language appropriate to informal or conversational speech and writing. Example: the southern word "y'all"

• Connotation

• Informal Diction

• Dialect

• Colloquial expressions

The exact, literal definition of a word independent of any

emotional association or secondary meaning.

• Abstract Diction

• Denotation

• Neutral Diction

• Connotation