Retake Literary & Rhetorical Devices Quiz - 2018 AP
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Choose which one is a metaphor.
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Grandpa snores like a grizzly bear
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The earth shook and the trees bent when grandpa started to snore
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Grandpa Grizzly shook the house with his nightly nose songs
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The only thing that snores worse than grandpa is my dad
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This 2018 AP quiz on Literary & Rhetorical Devices tests knowledge of metaphors, aphorisms, parallelism, imagery, hyperbole, and onomatopoeia. It enhances understanding of key rhetorical devices, crucial for advanced proficiency in English literature.
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- 2.
What does aphorism literally mean?
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Truth or observation
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Observation
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Old story
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Definition
Correct Answer
A. Truth or observationExplanation
Aphorism literally means a concise statement that expresses a general truth or observation about life. It is a short, memorable saying that encapsulates a profound insight or wisdom. This definition aligns with the concept of an aphorism being a truth or observation, as it emphasizes the concise and insightful nature of these statements.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Select the answer that displays correct parallelism:
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It was the perfect night for a party because the stars twinkled, cool breezes, but also rocking music.
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It was the perfect night for a party, not only because it was cool, but the stars twinkled and the music was rocking.
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It was the perfect night for a party; not only were the breezes cool, but the stars twinkled and the music rocked.
Correct Answer
A. It was the perfect night for a party; not only were the breezes cool, but the stars twinkled and the music rocked.Explanation
The correct answer is "It was the perfect night for a party; not only were the breezes cool, but the stars twinkled and the music rocked." This answer displays correct parallelism by using the same grammatical structure for each element in the list: "the breezes cool," "the stars twinkled," and "the music rocked."Rate this question:
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- 4.
Using descriptions to engage the five senses of the reader is considered IMAGERY. How many sensory elements must be present for full Descriptive Imagery?
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2
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3
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4
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All 5
Correct Answer
A. 3Explanation
Full Descriptive Imagery requires three sensory elements to be present. By engaging three of the five senses (sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell), the writer can create a vivid and immersive experience for the reader. This allows the reader to visualize the scene more effectively and enhances their overall understanding and enjoyment of the text.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Obvious and intentional exaggeration which can be positive or negative.
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Hyperbole
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Metaphor
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Alliteration
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Onomatopoeia
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Antithesis
Correct Answer
A. HyperboleExplanation
Hyperbole is the correct answer because it refers to the use of obvious and intentional exaggeration, which can be positive or negative. Hyperbole is a figure of speech that is used to create emphasis or make a point by exaggerating something for dramatic effect. It is commonly used in literature, poetry, and everyday language to add emphasis and create a vivid image in the reader's mind.Rate this question:
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- 6.
I was splashing in the pool until I knocked the glass over – CRASH! The line above is an example of ________.
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Inversion
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Hyperbole
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Imagery
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Onomatopeioa
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Literary Devices
Correct Answer
A. OnomatopeioaExplanation
The line "CRASH!" is an example of onomatopoeia because it imitates the sound of something crashing. Onomatopoeia is a literary device that uses words to represent sounds. In this case, the word "CRASH" is used to convey the loud and sudden noise of the glass falling and breaking.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Read the pairs of words. Which of these are examples of ASSONANCE? Choose two.
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Kale/tale
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Buy/bought
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Glue/smooth
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Rade/road
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Mill/most
Correct Answer(s)
A. Kale/tale
A. Glue/smoothExplanation
Assonance is the repetition of vowel sounds in nearby words. In the given options, "kale" and "tale" both have the same long "a" sound, making them an example of assonance. Similarly, "glue" and "smooth" have the same "oo" sound, making them another example of assonance.Rate this question:
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- 8.
In order for a device to be considered repetition, which 2 of the following must happen or be present?
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The same word can be used multiple times in a passage: like someone's name
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The repeated words or phrases can be close to the same but don't have to be identical
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Alliteration is close to being repetition since it is a repeated sound, so it counts
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The exact same words or phrases must be used in a specific sections/paragraph of a text
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The emphasis of repetition is not for balance but to stress and isolate a key point
Correct Answer(s)
A. The exact same words or phrases must be used in a specific sections/paragraph of a text
A. The emphasis of repetition is not for balance but to stress and isolate a key pointExplanation
Repetition in a device requires the exact same words or phrases to be used in a specific section or paragraph of a text. This emphasizes the importance of those words or phrases and isolates a key point. The other options, such as using the same word multiple times or having repeated words or phrases that are close but not identical, may be considered as variations or similarities, but they do not meet the criteria of exact repetition. Alliteration, while it involves repeated sounds, is not considered repetition in the same sense as using the exact same words or phrases.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Read the sentences carefully. Which of these are examples of STRONG ALLITERATION? Choose the TWO CORRECT answers.
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Harry the happy horse liked to hop over fences.
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I dance in a trance when there's ants in my pants!
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Time marches slowly, slanted down a slippery slope.
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Only love can break your heart.
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Keep care to curry favor with key companions.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Time marches slowly, slanted down a slippery slope.
A. Keep care to curry favor with key companions.Explanation
The two sentences "Time marches slowly, slanted down a slippery slope." and "Keep care to curry favor with key companions." are examples of strong alliteration because they both have multiple words starting with the same consonant sound. In the first sentence, the repeated "s" sound in "marches slowly, slanted" creates alliteration, while in the second sentence, the repeated "k" sound in "Keep care to curry" also creates alliteration.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which device is being used in the following sentence? "Over-worked and often forgotten, the antique desk groaned under the extreme weight of the stack of books yet to be read."
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Simile
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Metaphor
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Personification
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Chiasmus
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Allusion
Correct Answer
A. PersonificationExplanation
The correct answer is personification. In the given sentence, the antique desk is described as "groaning" under the extreme weight of the stack of books. This is a human characteristic attributed to the desk, giving it human-like qualities and personifying it.Rate this question:
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- 11.
What device is being used in the following sentence? "The cave swallowed the exploration team as they descended more than 40 feet below the earth's surface."
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Simile
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Metaphor
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Personification
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Hyperbole
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Analogy
Correct Answer
A. PersonificationExplanation
The correct answer is personification. Personification is a figure of speech in which human qualities or characteristics are attributed to non-human entities. In the given sentence, the cave is described as "swallowing" the exploration team, which is a human characteristic. This gives the cave human-like qualities and is an example of personification.Rate this question:
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- 12.
"We must fight sir, I repeat it, we must fight." - Patrick Henry Which device is most used in the above passage?
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Repetition
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Simile
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Metaphor
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Parallelism
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Anaphora
Correct Answer
A. RepetitionExplanation
The device most used in the passage is repetition. This is evident from the repetition of the phrase "we must fight" for emphasis. The repetition helps to convey the speaker's strong conviction and determination to fight.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Determine if the following is a rhetorical question by marking "true" or a regular question by marking "false". What more can we do to keep the peace?
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The question "What more can we do to keep the peace?" is considered a rhetorical question because it is not meant to be answered directly. Instead, it is used to make a point or to emphasize a particular idea. In this case, the question implies that the speaker believes that more can be done to maintain peace, but it does not require a specific response or action.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Aphorisms are meant to spread a human truth using a quick example easy to everyone's understanding.
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Aphorisms are concise statements that convey a universal truth or wisdom in a simple and easily understandable manner. They are designed to be easily grasped by everyone and provide a quick example or insight into a human truth. Therefore, it is true that aphorisms are intended to spread a human truth using a quick and easily understandable example.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Antimetabole and Chiasmus are so close in meaning it is always impossible to tell the difference.
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. FalseExplanation
Antimetabole and Chiasmus may share some similarities, but they are not identical in meaning. Antimetabole refers to the repetition of words or phrases in reverse order, while chiasmus involves the reversal of grammatical structures or ideas. Although they both involve some form of reversal, the specific elements being reversed differ between the two rhetorical devices. Therefore, it is not always impossible to distinguish between antimetabole and chiasmus.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Parallelism and Anaphora are used primarily to balance a syntactical structure.
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Parallelism and anaphora are indeed used primarily to balance a syntactical structure. Parallelism refers to the repetition of similar grammatical structures or patterns, which helps create a sense of balance and rhythm in a sentence or paragraph. Anaphora, on the other hand, involves the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences, which also contributes to the overall balance and coherence of the text. Both techniques are commonly employed in writing and speaking to enhance clarity, emphasis, and overall effectiveness of the message being conveyed.Rate this question:
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- 17.
An ALLUSION can only reference literature.
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. FalseExplanation
An allusion is a figure of speech that refers to a person, place, event, or work of art or literature. It is not limited to only referencing literature but can also reference other forms of art, history, popular culture, or even everyday life experiences. Therefore, the statement that an allusion can only reference literature is false.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Which of the following is a PUN?
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A good man is hard to find.
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The buck stops here.
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I'm a big fan of whiteboards; they are quiet re-markable.
Correct Answer
A. I'm a big fan of whiteboards; they are quiet re-markable.Explanation
The correct answer is "I'm a big fan of whiteboards; they are quiet re-markable." This sentence is a pun because it plays on the double meaning of the word "remarkable." In the sentence, "remarkable" is used to mean both "worthy of attention" and "able to be marked on." This creates a humorous play on words, making it a pun.Rate this question:
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- 19.
What rhetorical technique is this sentence an example of? “Jane’s days became a blur of meaningless events – wake up, brush teeth, make the coffee, get the mail, fix dinner, watch TV. It was hard to keep depression at bay.”
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Asyndeton
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Polysyndeton
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Juxtaposition
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Liotes
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Metonymy
Correct Answer
A. AsyndetonExplanation
This sentence is an example of asyndeton. Asyndeton is a rhetorical technique where conjunctions are deliberately omitted in a series of related clauses or phrases. In this sentence, the lack of conjunctions between the actions in Jane's daily routine ("wake up, brush teeth, make the coffee, get the mail, fix dinner, watch TV") creates a sense of monotony and emphasizes the repetitive nature of her life.Rate this question:
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- 20.
What is this sentence an example of? All the people were moving in the same direction. All the people were thinking about the same thing. All the people were discussing the same topic.”
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Antimetabole
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Anaphora
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Asyndeton
Correct Answer
A. AnaphoraExplanation
This sentence is an example of anaphora. Anaphora is the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences. In this sentence, the phrase "All the people were" is repeated at the beginning of each clause, emphasizing the unity and similarity of their actions, thoughts, or discussions.Rate this question:
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- 21.
A multitude of conjunctions between coordinate phrases clauses or words is called a/an ______.
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Asyndeton
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Inverted order of a sentence
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Rhetorical fragment
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Polysyndeton
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Chiasmus
Correct Answer
A. PolysyndetonExplanation
Polysyndeton refers to the use of multiple conjunctions between coordinate phrases, clauses, or words. It is characterized by the repetition of conjunctions such as "and," "or," or "but," which creates a sense of emphasis, rhythm, and intensity in the sentence. This technique is often used to convey a sense of urgency, to highlight the importance of each item listed, or to create a flowing and rhythmic effect in writing.Rate this question:
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- 22.
When a sentence's structure is reversed, and the speaker sounds a bit like Yoda from Star Wars, it might be an example of this literary device?
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Inversion
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Anaphora
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Rhetorical question
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Chiasmus
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Antimetabole
Correct Answer
A. InversionExplanation
Inversion is a literary device that involves reversing the normal word order in a sentence. When a sentence's structure is reversed, it can create a Yoda-like effect, similar to how the character Yoda speaks in the Star Wars movies. This reversal of word order can add emphasis or create a unique and memorable style of writing or speaking. Therefore, when a sentence's structure is reversed and the speaker sounds like Yoda, it is likely an example of inversion.Rate this question:
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- 23.
A more general form of a COMPARISON within rhetorical writing includes which of the following? Check the THREE which apply.
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Simile
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Oxymoron
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Personification
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Antithesis
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Metaphor
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Allusion
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Motif
Correct Answer(s)
A. Simile
A. Personification
A. MetaphorExplanation
The correct answer includes simile, personification, and metaphor. These are all examples of rhetorical devices used in writing to make comparisons. A simile compares two things using "like" or "as." Personification gives human qualities to non-human objects or ideas. Metaphor directly equates two things without using "like" or "as." These techniques are commonly used in literature and persuasive writing to create vivid imagery and engage the reader's emotions.Rate this question:
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- 24.
How does the following sentence change in meaning with only the change in one word? “I think Fay is an excellent president,” said the principal. “She really knows how to (manage, meddle).” Check ALL answer options which apply.
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Manage has a positive connotation
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Meddle has a negative connotation
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One diction option provides a sarcastic response
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One diction option makes the audience wonder if Fay can handle the job as president
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One diction option implies Fay has vast experience in this position
Correct Answer(s)
A. Manage has a positive connotation
A. Meddle has a negative connotation
A. One diction option provides a sarcastic response
A. One diction option makes the audience wonder if Fay can handle the job as president
A. One diction option implies Fay has vast experience in this positionExplanation
The word "manage" has a positive connotation, implying that Fay is skilled and capable in her role as president. On the other hand, the word "meddle" has a negative connotation, suggesting that Fay interferes or interferes inappropriately in the affairs of others. The sarcastic response option implies that the principal's statement may not be genuine or sincere. The option that makes the audience wonder if Fay can handle the job as president suggests doubt or uncertainty about her abilities. Lastly, the option that implies Fay has vast experience in this position indicates that she has extensive knowledge and expertise in her role.Rate this question:
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- 25.
What is a MOTIF?
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A type of theme
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A recurrent thematic element in an artistic or literary work
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A nonrecurrent thematic element in an artistic literary work
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A random word
Correct Answer
A. A recurrent thematic element in an artistic or literary workExplanation
A motif is a recurrent thematic element in an artistic or literary work. It refers to a specific idea, symbol, or image that is repeated throughout the work, adding depth and meaning to the overall narrative. Motifs often serve to reinforce the central themes or messages of the work, and can create connections between different parts of the story. They contribute to the overall coherence and artistic unity of the work, making it more engaging and thought-provoking for the audience or readers.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Which of the following is an example of a MOTIF?
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The hook in music
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A theme in a movie
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When Tommy didn't do his homework
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When the last word of each sentence rhymes
Correct Answer
A. The hook in musicExplanation
A motif is a recurring element or idea in a piece of art or literature that helps to create a sense of unity or theme. In this case, the hook in music refers to a short, catchy musical phrase that is repeated throughout a song to grab the listener's attention and create a memorable melody. This repetition of the hook serves as a motif in the music, reinforcing the overall theme or message of the song.Rate this question:
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- 27.
THEME and MOTIF are the same thing?
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True
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False
Correct Answer
A. FalseExplanation
The statement is asking if "THEME and MOTIF are the same thing?" The correct answer is "False" because theme and motif are not the same thing. A theme is a central idea or message in a piece of literature or art, while a motif is a recurring symbol or element that helps to develop the theme. They are related concepts, but they have distinct meanings and functions.Rate this question:
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- 28.
These two literary terms are often confused because of their similarity to INVERSION. Both include the reversal of words within a phrase.
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Antimetabole & Antithesis
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Antimetabole & Chiasmus
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Chiasmus & Antithesis
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Antithesis & Anastrophe
Correct Answer
A. Antimetabole & ChiasmusExplanation
Antimetabole and chiasmus are often confused because they both involve the reversal of words within a phrase. However, they are different literary terms. Antimetabole is the repetition of words in reverse order, while chiasmus is the reversal of grammatical structure in successive phrases. So, the correct answer is Antimetabole & Chiasmus.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Which of the following is NOT a type of IRONY?
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Situational
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Dramatic
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Satire
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Verbal
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Accidental
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Sarcasm
Correct Answer
A. AccidentalExplanation
Accidental is not a type of irony because irony involves a deliberate or intentional contrast between what is expected and what actually happens. Accidental events do not involve this deliberate contrast and are therefore not considered ironic.Rate this question:
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- 30.
What is FORESHADOWING?
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A hint or clue of what won't happen in the future.
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The description of a character's actions.
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A hint or clue of what will happen in the future.
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A hint of what motivates a character to take an action
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The description of a character's personality traits
Correct Answer
A. A hint or clue of what will happen in the future.Explanation
Foreshadowing is a literary technique used by authors to give hints or clues about what will happen in the future. It is a way of preparing the reader for upcoming events or plot developments. By subtly introducing elements or events that will become significant later on, foreshadowing creates anticipation and suspense in the story. It helps to build tension and engage the reader, as they try to piece together the clues and predict what might happen next. Overall, foreshadowing adds depth and complexity to a narrative by providing insight into future events and their potential impact on the story.Rate this question:
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- 31.
LITOTES uses a/an ___________ rather than a positive to talk about a feeling or a situation.
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Neutral
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Idea
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Positive
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Negative
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Satire
Correct Answer
A. NegativeExplanation
LITOTES is a figure of speech that uses understatement to express an idea by negating its opposite. Instead of using a positive statement, LITOTES employs a negative statement to convey a feeling or describe a situation. Therefore, the correct answer is "negative."Rate this question:
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- 32.
Which literary device is being used in the following sentence? "The White House will be making an official statement later this afternoon from the rose garden."
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Meter
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Metonymy
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Metaphor
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Mood
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Motif
Correct Answer
A. MetonymyExplanation
In the given sentence, the literary device being used is metonymy. Metonymy is a figure of speech where a word or phrase is substituted for another word or phrase that it is closely associated with. In this case, "The White House" is being used to refer to the government or the President of the United States, as it is a well-known symbol of political power and authority.Rate this question:
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- 33.
The latest flyer lists all new university courses. What literary device would BEST describe this compilation?
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Connotation
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Cliche
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Contrast
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Chiasmus
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Catalogue
Correct Answer
A. CatalogueExplanation
The correct answer is "Catalogue" because a catalogue is a literary device that refers to a list or compilation of items, in this case, the new university courses listed in the flyer.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Complete the following sentence: A EUpHEMISM is a mild, a more positive turn of phrase, or a roundabout way _________.
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Used to indicate a common idea in a clear, unambiguous way.
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Used to communicate the author's strong, overpowering, emotion.
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Used in place of a word or phrase considered offensive or painful.
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Used to confuse or deceive the listener or reader.
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Used to make the reader or listener experience an emotional reaction.
Correct Answer
A. Used in place of a word or phrase considered offensive or painful.Explanation
A euphemism is a way of expressing something in a less harsh or offensive manner. It is used to replace words or phrases that may be considered offensive or painful to others. By using a euphemism, the speaker or writer aims to convey the same idea but in a more polite or sensitive way.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Which of the following does NOT represent a RHETORICAL APPEAL?
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Logic
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Emotions
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All are part of the Rhetorical Appeals
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Ethics or expertise
Correct Answer
A. All are part of the Rhetorical AppealsExplanation
The correct answer is "all are part of the Rhetorical Appeals." This means that all of the options listed - logic, emotions, ethics or expertise - represent a rhetorical appeal. Rhetorical appeals are persuasive techniques used to convince an audience, and they can include appeals to logic (logos), emotions (pathos), and ethics or expertise (ethos). Therefore, none of the options listed are excluded from being a rhetorical appeal.Rate this question:
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- 36.
A sentence or writing becomes AMBIGUOUS when _______.
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Something is confusing.
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The author wants to create a strong thesis.
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A strong action is described.
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There is more than one interpretation.
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A symbolic connection becomes apparent.
Correct Answer
A. There is more than one interpretation.Explanation
When there is more than one interpretation of a sentence or writing, it becomes ambiguous. This means that the meaning is unclear or can be understood in different ways. Ambiguity can arise from various factors such as unclear language, multiple possible meanings, or lack of context. In such cases, the reader or listener may struggle to determine the intended message or may interpret it differently from others.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Which of the following is NOT an example of an ANTITHESIS?
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"Speech is silver, but silence is golden."
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"Love is an ideal thing; marriage is a real thing."
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"She is easy on the eyes but hard on the heart."
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"Many are called; few are chosen."
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All choices have an example of antithesis
Correct Answer
A. All choices have an example of antithesis -
- 38.
Like King Midas, everything Grace worked on was golden.
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Allusion
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Hyperbole
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Metonymy
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Litotes
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Alliteration
Correct Answer
A. AllusionExplanation
The sentence is making a comparison between Grace and King Midas, who was known for turning everything he touched into gold. This comparison suggests that everything Grace worked on had a similar golden quality, emphasizing her skill or success. This is an example of an allusion, as it references a well-known mythological figure to convey a deeper meaning.Rate this question:
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- 39.
An expression that has been overused to the extent that it loses its original meaning or novelty, may also refer to actions and events that are predictable because of some previous event.
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Aphorism
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Cliche
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Analogy
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Parody
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Anecdote
Correct Answer
A. ClicheExplanation
A cliche is an expression or phrase that has been used so frequently that it has lost its original meaning or impact. It is often considered unoriginal and lacking in novelty. Additionally, the term can also refer to actions or events that are predictable because they have been seen or experienced before. In this context, the correct answer is "cliche" because it best fits the description provided.Rate this question:
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- 40.
Which of the following is NOT an example of an oxymoron?
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Deafening silence
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Dull roar
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Exact estimate
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Larger half
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All are examples of oxymoron
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Random order
Correct Answer
A. All are examples of oxymoronExplanation
The given answer is correct because all of the options provided are examples of oxymorons. An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines contradictory terms to create a unique meaning. In this case, "deafening silence," "dull roar," "exact estimate," "larger half," and "random order" all contain contradictory terms that create a contrast or irony. Therefore, none of the options listed are not an example of an oxymoron.Rate this question:
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