AP Lang Terms

Rather than the dictionary definition, the associations suggested by a word. Implied meaning rather than literal meaning.

• colloquial

• connotation

• denotation

• jargon

The literal, explicit meaning of a word, without its connotations.

• diction

• vernacular

• syntax

• denotation

the diction used by a group which practices a similar profession or activity.

• jargon

• vernacular

• colloquial

• diction

Language or dialect of a particular country, region, clan, or group. Plain everyday speech.

• colloquial

• connotation

• denotation

• vernacular

the art of effective communication

• rhetoric

• rhetorical question

• syntax

• diction

question not asked for information but for the effect.

• rhetorical

• syntax

• allusion

• satirical

grammatical arrangement of words. the grouping of words.

• tone

• diction

• allusion

• syntax

a writer's attitude toward his subject matter revealed through diction, figurative language, and organization.

• allusion

• rhetoric

• diction

• tone

means being convinced by the credibility of the author.

• ethos

• logos

• pathos

means persuading by appealing to the reader's emotion

• ethos

• logos

• pathos