How we change what others think, feel, believe and do

Amplificatio

Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Amplificatio

Method | Example | Discussion | See also

Description

This is a term used for general amplification, enhancement or exaggeration of an argument in order to draw attention to it or make it seem more than it really is.

Example

I waited days, through wind, rain and freezing hail, just to be first in line to see the most wonderful, beautiful person that anyone could ever behold.

I have seen many plays and some of them were dreadful, but that was the absolutely worst performance I have ever been forced to suffer.

Discussion

When we make things apparently bigger and more significant, we draw attention to them (and in doing so, take attention away from other areas). This can be a desirable thing in persuasive situations.

Amplification also uses the principle of contrast in the way it pushes opposing things apart in a form of polarization. It is therefore useful to have something in opposition by which the thing being amplified appears larger than ever.

Classification: Amplification