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Abstract words –
words that do not refer to tangible, specific items
Colloquialisms –
non-standard or non-grammatical use of language in everyday speech
Concrete words –
words that name something that can be seen, touched, heard, or otherwise experienced through the senses
Connotation –
the implied or understood meaning of a word
Conventional word order –
subject – verb – object along with any modifying words adjacent to the words modified
Denotation –
the dictionary definition of a word
Diction –
the way words are written or spoken such an formal or informal
Formal diction –
the use of words following rules of grammar and Standard English
General words –
non-specific words
Informal diction –
the use words with slang, colloquialisms, and non-Standard English
Inverted sequence –
an order of words that is not conventional
Poetic language –
focused use of language which is not bound by Standard English to create an image or arouse a particular emotion
Poetic license –
use of non-standard grammar and other conventions of punctuation of literal use of language
Sarcasm –
saying the opposite of what is meant to express anger or criticism
Slang –
non-standard use of language
Specific words –
words that specify something such as large, round, blue
Standard English –
the form of English which follows rules of grammar without slang or colloquialism
Style –
the composite of ways a speaker or writer uses language to create a communication
Tone –
the attitude of the speaker or narrator such as in an angry or cheerful tone
