Anesis

Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Anesis

Method | Example | Discussion | See also

Description

Anesis is the use of a concluding phrase or sentence that somehow diminishes what has previously been said.

Example

He was one of the most admired men of his time, yet he had one terrible, fatal flaw.

This is the best mixer money can buy, although it does not have a great reputation for reliability.

I love you without question. I adore you, above all others. But I'm not sure I want to go out with you.

Discussion

Anesis seems like a contradiction and it is, yet it is heard surprisingly often, perhaps where a person says something, realizes they have said more than they intent, and then tries to retract or reduce the effect.

If done badly, it can damage the speaker's reputation as others see them as inconsistent.

Anesis is an effective opposite of epitasis.

Classification: Reduction