How we change what others think, feel, believe and do |
Periphrasis
Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Periphrasis Method | Example | Discussion | See also
DescriptionPeriphrasis is circumlocution, talking around the subject rather than directly what perhaps might be said in the circumstances. ExampleIt is not that James is welcome or otherwise, or that he is sometimes here or not. I do wonder, though, if he might be thinking what it's all about. (= I don't like James) When I am with you, my toes tingle and my knees are weak. The world is a better place altogether and I find myself giving my fortune to beggars, and I am a beggar before you, craving a smile, a whim. (= I love you) DiscussionThere are many reasons why a person may not want to tell the truth. Perhaps the lover fears rejection or whistle-blower thinks they might get sacked. Often, we fear the reprisals of others for breaking social rules. We may also want to kindly spare someone the pain of the uncomfortable truth. In literature and poetry, there can be much eloquence in talking around a subject. Rather than stating something simply, the writer paints with words, extracting a greater beauty and sympathy from metaphor and pattern. To write is to evoke emotions, and, whilst simple words enable understanding, they often do so coldly. Periphrasis is also known as circumlocution, circumdiction, periphrase and ambage. Classification: Hidden See also |
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| Home | Top | Quick Links | Settings | |
Main sections: | Disciplines | Techniques | Principles | Explanations | Theories | |
Other sections: | Blog! | Quotes | Guest articles | Analysis | Books | Help | |
More pages: | Contact | Caveat | About | Students | Webmasters | Awards | Guestbook | Feedback | Sitemap | Changes | |
Settings: | Computer layout | Mobile layout | Small font | Medium font | Large font | Translate | |
| Home | Top | Menu | Quick Links | |
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