For your English qualification, it is crucial that you are able to use your words to communicate. After all, this is what you will be marked on.
It is important that you are able to use language effectively, and understand different literary techniques and language devices. It is also important that you are able to spot the use of these techniques in other people’s work and when reading and analysing texts.
Of course, the basics include using the correct words to explain what you mean, spelling them correctly, and effectively using grammar, but there are plenty of other devices that can help you to sue language to great effect.
Literary Techniques
Let’s explore some of the common literary techniques that can help you to use language effectively.
Simile
Simile involves comparing two unlike things using the words "like" or "as" to create vivid imagery. This technique enables writers to draw parallels and evoke strong mental images. An example would be: “As strong as an Ox” but this is not very original.
Past him, ten feet from his front wheels, flung the Seattle Express like a flying volcano.” — Arrowsmith, by Sinclair Lewis
Metaphor
Metaphor goes a step further than simile, directly equating two dissimilar things to convey a deeper meaning. It encourages readers to think beyond the literal and explore the layers of significance.
An example: "Time is a thief, stealing moments and memories from us." Of course, time is not actually a “thief” in the traditional definition, so this is a metaphorical use of language.
Personification
Personification attributes human qualities to non-human entities, enhancing the emotional impact of the writing. By giving life to inanimate objects or abstract concepts, writers can create a more relatable and engaging narrative.
For instance: "The wind groaned through the trees." Groaning is something that humans do, not inanimate objects or trees, but this attributes a human quality to the trees.
Onomatopoeia
Onomatopoeia involves using words that imitate the sounds they describe. This technique brings a sensory element to writing, allowing readers to hear the words as they read.
Examples of onomatopoeic words include: Buzz, hiccup, zoom, bang, beep, moo, and splash.
Parenthesis
Parenthesis, marked by parentheses or dashes, allows writers to interject additional information or thoughts within a sentence. This technique can be employed to create a conversational tone, provide context, or offer insights. For example: "The jungle, dark and mysterious (and probably full of secrets), whispered tales of times long past."
Oxymoron
Oxymoron combines contradictory terms to create a paradoxical effect. This technique is particularly useful for emphasising contrasts and capturing complex or conflicting emotions.
A clever use of this can be found in J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye, the main character, Holden Caulfield, describes himself as a “terrific liar,” which is an oxymoron due to the fact that the two words have opposing meanings and connotations. Twinned with him using this to describe his own characteristics, this reveals something about the character.
Pathetic Fallacy
Pathetic fallacy attributes human emotions to nature or inanimate objects, creating a mood that mirrors the emotional state of the characters or the narrative. It is regularly used with regards to the weather, and to suggest weather is reflecting human feelings.
For instance, from Great Expectations by Charles Dickens: “So furious had been the gusts… Violent blasts of rain had accompanied these rages of wind, and the day just closed as I sat down to read had been the worst of all.”
Hyperbole
Hyperbole involves exaggeration for emphasis or effect, adding a touch of drama to the narrative. While it may seem over-the-top, hyperbole serves to highlight a point or create a memorable impression.
An example from Old Times on the Mississippi by Mark Twain:
“I was quaking from head to foot, and could have hung my hat on my eyes, they stuck out so far.”
Of course, his eyes were not hanging out far enough to hang a hat on, but the author uses this technique to add drama and a clear image in the reader’s mind.
Rhetorical and Persuasive Language Devices
The use of effective language is slightly different when it comes to persuasive writing, such as trying to influence an opinion by sending a letter, or writing a speech.
- Emotive Language. The use of words and phrases designed to evoke strong emotions in the audience.
- Triples (Rule of Three): Presenting ideas, concepts, or arguments in sets of three for emphasis and memorability. “Through resilience, determination, and hard work, we can succeed.”
- Flattery. Complimenting or praising the audience to create a positive disposition. "You, the brilliant minds of our generation, can surely make a difference."
- Rhetorical Questions. Asking questions without expecting an answer, prompting the audience to reflect on the implied answer.
- Statistics. Presenting numerical data to support an argument or claim, lending credibility.
- Repetition. Repeating key words or phrases to reinforce a point and enhance memorability.
- Emotive language. Evoking emotions in the audience to sway their opinions or decisions. For example: "Imagine the joy on a child's face when they receive the gift of clean water for the first time."
Exercise: Identify Persuasive Devices
Identify the persuasive techniques that are used in this speech, Leonardo DiCaprio's Powerful Climate Summit Speech.
We’ll get you started. In the earliest part of this speech he uses flattery in how he describes the guests as “distinguished”.
Think about the following:
- Does he use evidence to support his claims?
- Does he use emotive language?
- Are there examples of the rule of three?
- How does he try to create a connection with the audience?
Conclusion
Using language effectively for your GCSE English is the best way to ensure that you get good grades, but this is not the only reason for building the skill. It can help in many other areas of life, such as if you ever have to make a speech or write a persuasive letter. The next time you read a book, an article, or even a blog post, think about what sort of literary devices and techniques are being used.
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Great site with a lot of resources. Thank You so much.
Hi Anneme! Thanks for your lovely comment, glad to hear that you found these resources useful! Best of luck with your revision! :)
thank you for helping me with my work
Wow. I can’t imagine what sources were used for this, but they clearly weren’t reliable. “During the first half of the twentieth century, America was open to immigrants from all parts of Europe”—nope. Look up the Immigration Act of 1924, and keep in mind it didn’t come out of nowhere. It wasn’t significantly revised until 1952 and was only replaced in 1965. It’s not exactly a secret Americans overall were distinctly unwelcoming toward Italian immigrants for quite some time. I’m not sure how many were victims of hate crimes in total, but not everyone murdered in the lynching epidemic was Black.
“However, Italian immigrants, especially from southern Italy or Sicily, held on to their ancient values”—don’t most of us do that? This smacks of xenophobia, and it gets worse from there. “Italy has a violent past due to criminal organizations like the Mafia…” I don’t even know where to start with this, but I see this is a UK site. Do you not realize how violent your own history is? Do you think Italians are monolithic? Even if your portrayal of the mafia’s significance were accurate, what makes a mafia don so different from one of the many capricious, overly entitled English monarchs throughout your history?
To be clear, I don’t want your answers to any of these questions. I want you to properly research your subjects before attempting to teach others about them.