Ap Lang and Comp Vocab Set #1

A representation of an abstract or spiritual meaning through concrete or material forms

ex. the allegory of Piers Plowman

The commencement of two or more stressed syllables of a word group either with the same consonant sound or sound group.

ex. She sells seashells by the seashore

A passing or casual reference; an incidental mention of something, either directly or by implication.

ex. an illusion to Shakespeare

Doubtfulness or uncertainty of meaning or intention

ex. to speak with ambiguity

A similarity between like features of two things, on which a comparison may be based

ex. the analogy between the heart and a pump.

Preceding; prior

ex. an antecedent event

Opposition; contrast

ex. the antithesis of happy and mellow

A terse saying embodying a general truth, or astute observation

ex. The Aphorisms of Hippocrates were one of the earliest collections.

To indicate the possessive case, as in man's; or to indicate plurals of abbreviations and symbols, as in several M.D.'s, 3's.

ex. use an apostrophe when referring to ownership

The gaseous envelope surrounding the earth; the air

ex. The author had cleverly atmosphered the novel for added chills.

A picture, description, etc., ludicrously exaggerating the peculiarities or defects of persons or things

ex. I used a pain brush to make a caricature of my house

A reversal in the order of words in two otherwise parallel phrases

ex. He went to the country, to the town went she

A distinct article or provision in a contract, treaty, will, or other formal or legal written document.

ex. I have given my daughter a bracelet which is made of platinum.

Words used in everyday speech but not classed as slang.


ex. He is a little grub

An excessively favorable opinion of one's own ability, importance, wit, etc.

ex. she recommended me the blue jacket out of conceit.