Literary Terms Diagnostic Quiz

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Literary Terms Diagnostic Quiz - Quiz


Questions and Answers
  • 1. 

    repetition of the same or similar consonant sounds at the beginning of words.

    • A.

      Assonance

    • B.

      Alliteration

    • C.

      Simile

    • D.

      Metaphor

    Correct Answer
    B. Alliteration
    Explanation
    Alliteration refers to the repetition of the same or similar consonant sounds at the beginning of words. It is a literary device used to create rhythm and emphasis in a text. This can be seen in phrases like "Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers." The other options, assonance, simile, and metaphor, do not specifically refer to the repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words.

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  • 2. 

    Art of effective communication, especially persuasive discourse.

    • A.

      Rhetoric

    • B.

      Allusion

    • C.

      Style

    • D.

      Mood

    Correct Answer
    A. Rhetoric
    Explanation
    Rhetoric refers to the art of effective communication, particularly persuasive discourse. It involves using language and techniques to convey ideas in a convincing and influential manner. Rhetoric encompasses skills such as using persuasive language, structuring arguments, and appealing to emotions. It is often used in public speaking, writing, and other forms of communication to sway an audience's opinions or beliefs.

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  • 3. 

    a “play on words” based on the multiple meanings of a single word or on words that sound alike but mean different things.

    • A.

      Metonymy

    • B.

      Metaphor

    • C.

      Oxymoron

    • D.

      Pun

    Correct Answer
    D. Pun
    Explanation
    A pun is a type of wordplay that relies on the multiple meanings of a single word or on words that sound alike but have different meanings. It is a play on words that often creates humor or adds a clever twist to a sentence or phrase. Puns are often used in jokes and can be a form of wordplay that requires the listener or reader to think about the different meanings of the words being used.

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  • 4. 

    a statement that appears self-contradictory, but that reveals a kind of truth.

    • A.

      Paradox

    • B.

      Irony

    • C.

      Onomatopoeia

    • D.

      Simile

    Correct Answer
    A. Paradox
    Explanation
    A paradox is a statement that seems to contradict itself but actually reveals a deeper truth. It presents a situation or idea that is seemingly illogical or contradictory, yet upon closer examination, it holds a hidden meaning or truth. Paradoxes are often used to provoke thought and challenge conventional wisdom. They can be found in literature, philosophy, and everyday life, and they serve to highlight the complexity and contradictions of the human experience.

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  • 5. 

    a work that makes fun of another work by imitating some aspect of the writer’s style.

    • A.

      Satire

    • B.

      Farce

    • C.

      Parody

    • D.

      Fable

    Correct Answer
    C. Parody
    Explanation
    Parody is the correct answer because it refers to a work that imitates the style, tone, or content of another work in order to mock or make fun of it. It often exaggerates or distorts elements of the original work to create a humorous effect. Satire, on the other hand, criticizes or ridicules human vices, while farce is a type of comedy characterized by exaggerated and improbable situations. Fable, on the other hand, is a short story that typically conveys a moral lesson.

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  • 6. 

    poetic and rhetorical device in which normally unassociated ideas, words, or phrases are placed next to one another, creating an effect of surprise and wit.

    • A.

      Parallel structure

    • B.

      Rhetorical question

    • C.

      Simile

    • D.

      Juxtaposition

    Correct Answer
    D. Juxtaposition
    Explanation
    Juxtaposition is a poetic and rhetorical device that involves placing normally unrelated ideas, words, or phrases next to each other. This creates an effect of surprise and wit. It is used to highlight contrasts or comparisons, drawing attention to the differences or similarities between the juxtaposed elements. This technique adds depth and complexity to the writing, engaging the reader and encouraging them to think more deeply about the ideas being presented.

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  • 7. 

    a figure of speech that makes a comparison between two unlike things without the use of such specific words of comparison as like, as, than, or resembles.

    • A.

      Simile

    • B.

      Metaphor

    • C.

      Paradox

    • D.

      Juxtaposition

    Correct Answer
    B. Metaphor
    Explanation
    A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two unlike things without using words such as "like" or "as". It creates a direct comparison by stating that one thing is another thing. Unlike a simile, which uses "like" or "as" to compare, a metaphor implies a stronger and more direct comparison. A paradox is a statement that seems contradictory but may actually be true, and juxtaposition is the placement of two contrasting things side by side for emphasis. Therefore, the correct answer is metaphor.

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  • 8. 

    the author reveals to the reader what the character is like by describing how the character looks and dresses, by letting the reader hear what the character says, by revealing the character’s private thoughts and feelings, by revealing the characters effect on other people (showing how other characters feel or behave toward the character), or by showing the character in action. Common in modern literature

    • A.

      Irony

    • B.

      Dramatic irony

    • C.

      Indirect characterization

    • D.

      Direct characterization

    Correct Answer
    C. Indirect characterization
    Explanation
    Indirect characterization is the correct answer because it refers to the method used by the author to reveal the character's traits without directly stating them. Instead, the author provides clues through the character's appearance, actions, dialogue, thoughts, and the way other characters respond to them. This technique allows the reader to infer the character's personality and motivations, creating a more engaging and nuanced reading experience. It is commonly used in modern literature to add depth and complexity to the characters.

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  • 9. 

    in general, a story that ends with a happy resolution of the conflicts faced by the main character or characters.

    • A.

      Tragedy

    • B.

      Farce

    • C.

      Comedy

    • D.

      Satire

    Correct Answer
    C. Comedy
    Explanation
    A comedy is a type of story that typically ends with a happy resolution of the conflicts faced by the main character or characters. Unlike a tragedy, which usually ends in sadness or death, a comedy aims to entertain and uplift the audience by providing a humorous and light-hearted resolution to the conflicts. It often involves funny situations, mistaken identities, and humorous misunderstandings, creating a sense of joy and amusement for the viewers or readers.

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  • 10. 

    a speaker or writer’s choice of words.

    • A.

      Diction

    • B.

      Tone

    • C.

      Mood

    • D.

      Style

    Correct Answer
    A. Diction
    Explanation
    Diction refers to the specific words and phrases chosen by a speaker or writer. It involves the selection of vocabulary, the arrangement of words, and the overall style of expression. Diction plays a crucial role in conveying meaning and tone, as well as in establishing the overall style and mood of a piece of writing or speech. Therefore, diction is the most appropriate term to describe a speaker or writer's choice of words.

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  • 11. 

    A character who acts as contrast to another character. Often a funny side kick to the dashing hero, or a villain contrasting the hero.

    • A.

      Antihero

    • B.

      Protagonist

    • C.

      Antagonist

    • D.

      Foil

    Correct Answer
    D. Foil
    Explanation
    A foil is a character who is used to contrast another character. They may provide a humorous or supportive role to the main hero, or they may serve as a contrasting villain to the hero. The purpose of a foil is to highlight and emphasize the traits and qualities of the main character by providing a contrasting perspective or behavior.

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  • 12. 

    a figure of speech that uses an incredible exaggeration or overstatement, for effect. “If I told you once, I’ve told you a million times….”

    • A.

      Understatement

    • B.

      Tone

    • C.

      Satire

    • D.

      Hyperbole

    Correct Answer
    D. Hyperbole
    Explanation
    Hyperbole is the correct answer because it is a figure of speech that involves extreme exaggeration or overstatement for emphasis. In the given example, the phrase "If I told you once, I've told you a million times" is an exaggerated statement to emphasize the speaker's frustration or annoyance. Hyperbole is often used in literature, poetry, and everyday language to create emphasis or make a point more dramatic.

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  • 13. 

    a figure of speech in which a person, place, or thing, is referred to by something closely associated with it. “We requested from the crown support for our petition.” The crown is used to represent the monarch.

    • A.

      Oxymoron

    • B.

      Metonymy

    • C.

      Metaphor

    • D.

      Simile

    Correct Answer
    B. Metonymy
    Explanation
    Metonymy is the correct answer because it is a figure of speech in which a word or phrase is substituted with something closely related to it. In the given example, "the crown" is used to represent the monarch, which is a closely associated term. Metonymy allows for a more concise and evocative expression by using a related term instead of the actual word or phrase.

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  • 14. 

    An atmosphere created by a writer’s diction and the details selected.

    • A.

      Tone

    • B.

      Setting

    • C.

      Mood

    • D.

      Style

    Correct Answer
    C. Mood
    Explanation
    Mood refers to the emotional atmosphere that is created by a writer's diction and the details they select. It is the overall feeling or vibe that the reader gets from a piece of writing. The writer's choice of words, the descriptions they provide, and the overall tone of the piece all contribute to establishing the mood. The mood can be somber, joyful, mysterious, or any other emotion that the writer intends to evoke in the reader. It sets the tone for the reader's experience and helps to convey the writer's intended message or theme.

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  • 15. 

    one of the characters tells the story.

    • A.

      Third person point of view

    • B.

      First person point of view

    • C.

      Omniscient point of view

    • D.

      Objective point of view

    Correct Answer
    B. First person point of view
    Explanation
    In a first person point of view, the story is narrated by one of the characters, using pronouns like "I" and "me". This perspective allows the reader to see events and experiences through the eyes of the narrator, providing a personal and subjective account of the story.

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  • 16. 

    an unknown narrator, tells the story, but this narrator zooms in to focus on the thoughts and feelings of only one character.

    • A.

      Third person point of view

    • B.

      First person point of view

    • C.

      Omniscient point of view

    • D.

      Objective point of view

    Correct Answer
    A. Third person point of view
    Explanation
    The given correct answer is third person point of view. In this type of narration, an unknown narrator tells the story but focuses on the thoughts and feelings of only one character. This means that the narrator is not a character in the story and uses pronouns like "he," "she," or "they" to refer to the characters. The narrator has access to the thoughts and feelings of one character, providing a limited perspective on the events of the story.

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  • 17. 

    an all knowing narrator tells the story, also using the third person pronouns. This narrator, instead of focusing on one character only, often tells us everything about many characters.

    • A.

      Third person point of view

    • B.

      First person point of view

    • C.

      Omniscient point of view

    • D.

      Objective point of view

    Correct Answer
    C. Omniscient point of view
    Explanation
    The given correct answer is omniscient point of view. In this type of narration, the narrator is all-knowing and has access to the thoughts, feelings, and actions of multiple characters. The narrator uses third person pronouns and provides a comprehensive view of the story by revealing information about various characters. This allows the reader to have a broader understanding of the events and perspectives within the story.

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  • 18. 

    a narrator who is totally impersonal and objective tells the story, with no comment on any characters or events.

    • A.

      Third person point of view

    • B.

      First person point of view

    • C.

      Omniscient point of view

    • D.

      Objective point of view

    Correct Answer
    D. Objective point of view
    Explanation
    In an objective point of view, the narrator remains impartial and unbiased throughout the story. They present the events and characters without providing any personal opinions or judgments. This perspective allows readers to form their own conclusions and interpretations based solely on the information presented. Unlike other points of view, the objective point of view does not delve into the thoughts or feelings of the characters, focusing solely on the external actions and dialogue.

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  • 19. 

    a figure of speech in which an object or animal is given human feelings, thoughts, or attitudes.

    • A.

      Personification

    • B.

      Metonymy

    • C.

      Polysyndeton

    • D.

      Metaphor

    Correct Answer
    A. Personification
    Explanation
    Personification is a figure of speech that attributes human qualities or characteristics to non-human objects or animals. It is a form of metaphor that helps to create vivid and imaginative descriptions by giving inanimate objects or animals human feelings, thoughts, or attitudes. This technique allows the reader to relate to and understand the object or animal in a more relatable and emotional way.

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  • 20. 

    a poem consisting of four lines, or four lines of a poem that can be considered as a unit.

    • A.

      Couplet

    • B.

      Quatrain

    • C.

      Lyric poem

    • D.

      Confessional poetry

    Correct Answer
    B. Quatrain
    Explanation
    A quatrain is a type of poem consisting of four lines. It can also refer to four lines of a poem that can be considered as a unit. This form of poetry is commonly used in various literary traditions and allows for a concise and structured expression of ideas or emotions. Quatrains can be found in a variety of poetic styles and genres, making them a versatile and widely used form in the world of poetry.

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  • 21. 

    a person, place, thing, or event that has meaning in itself and that also stands for something more than itself.

    • A.

      Simile

    • B.

      Theme

    • C.

      Symbol

    • D.

      Metonymy

    Correct Answer
    C. Symbol
    Explanation
    A symbol is a person, place, thing, or event that has meaning in itself and also represents something beyond its literal definition. It is a form of figurative language that adds depth and layers of meaning to a text. Symbols can be objects, actions, or even characters that represent abstract ideas, themes, or concepts. They are used to enhance the overall message or theme of a piece of literature or artwork.

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  • 22. 

    the attitude a writer takes toward the subject of a work, the characters in it, or the audience, revealed through diction, figurative language, and organization.

    • A.

      Mood

    • B.

      Style

    • C.

      Tone

    • D.

      Setting

    Correct Answer
    C. Tone
    Explanation
    The correct answer is tone. Tone refers to the attitude or emotion that the writer conveys towards the subject, characters, or audience in a work of literature. It is revealed through the writer's choice of words (diction), use of figurative language, and the overall structure and organization of the piece. The tone can be serious, humorous, sarcastic, formal, informal, etc., and it helps to create a certain mood or atmosphere in the writing.

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  • 23. 

    the insight about human life that is revealed in a literary work.

    • A.

      Motif

    • B.

      Theme

    • C.

      Justaposition

    • D.

      Diction

    Correct Answer
    B. Theme
    Explanation
    The correct answer is theme. In literature, the theme refers to the central idea or message that the author is trying to convey about human life. It is the underlying meaning or insight about the human condition that is revealed through the events, characters, and conflicts in the story. The theme provides a deeper understanding of the work and can often be a universal concept that resonates with readers beyond the specific context of the story.

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  • 24. 

    story or poem in which characters, settings, and events stand for other people or events or for abstract ideas or qualities.

    • A.

      Parable

    • B.

      Satire

    • C.

      Allegory

    • D.

      Farce

    Correct Answer
    C. Allegory
    Explanation
    An allegory is a story or poem in which characters, settings, and events represent other people, events, or abstract ideas or qualities. It uses symbolism to convey deeper meanings and often has a moral or political message. Unlike a parable, which typically teaches a specific lesson, an allegory can have multiple layers of meaning and interpretation. Satire, on the other hand, uses humor and irony to criticize or mock individuals or society. A farce is a comedic genre that relies on exaggerated situations and physical humor. Therefore, the correct answer is allegory.

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  • 25. 

    Opponent who struggles against or blocks the hero in a story.

    • A.

      Antagonist

    • B.

      Protagonist

    • C.

      Epithet

    • D.

      Foil

    Correct Answer
    A. Antagonist
    Explanation
    The correct answer is antagonist. In a story, the antagonist is the character who opposes or creates obstacles for the hero or protagonist. They often serve as the main source of conflict in the narrative, creating tension and driving the plot forward. The antagonist can be a person, a group, or even a force of nature. They are essential in creating a sense of challenge and struggle for the protagonist, ultimately leading to the development and resolution of the story.

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  • 26. 

    attributing human characteristics to an animal or inanimate object

    • A.

      Hyperbole

    • B.

      Aphorism

    • C.

      Anthropomorphism

    • D.

      Characterization

    Correct Answer
    C. Anthropomorphism
    Explanation
    Anthropomorphism refers to the act of attributing human characteristics to animals or inanimate objects. This can be seen in various forms of literature, art, and storytelling, where animals or objects are given human-like traits, emotions, or behaviors. It allows for a more relatable and engaging experience for the audience, as they can connect with these non-human entities on a more familiar level. This concept is often used to convey deeper meanings, explore complex themes, or simply entertain through the personification of non-human entities.

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  • 27. 

    the author tells us explicitly what the character is like: sneaky, generous, mean to pets and so on. Romantic style literature relied more heavily on this form.

    • A.

      Direct characterization

    • B.

      Indirect characterization

    • C.

      Static character

    • D.

      Dynamic character

    Correct Answer
    A. Direct characterization
    Explanation
    Direct characterization is the correct answer because the author explicitly describes the character's traits and qualities. This means that the author directly tells the reader what the character is like, including their sneaky nature, generosity, and how they treat pets. This form of characterization is commonly found in romantic style literature, where the author provides clear and direct information about the character's personality and behavior.

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  • 28. 

    the associations and emotional overtones that have become attached to a word or phrase, in addition to its strict dictionary definition.

    • A.

      Diction

    • B.

      Tone

    • C.

      Connotation

    • D.

      Mood

    Correct Answer
    C. Connotation
    Explanation
    Connotation refers to the associations and emotional overtones that are linked to a word or phrase, beyond its literal definition. It encompasses the feelings, ideas, and cultural meanings that are associated with a particular word. Unlike denotation, which is the strict dictionary definition of a word, connotation adds layers of meaning and can vary depending on the context and cultural background of the speaker and listener. Therefore, the correct answer is connotation.

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  • 29. 

    is one who changes in some important way as a result of the story’s action.

    • A.

      Foil

    • B.

      Static character

    • C.

      Dynamic character

    • D.

      Protagonist

    Correct Answer
    C. Dynamic character
    Explanation
    A dynamic character is one who undergoes significant changes or growth throughout the story as a result of the actions and events that take place. Unlike static characters who remain unchanged, dynamic characters often experience personal transformations, learn important lessons, or develop new perspectives. These changes can be physical, emotional, or psychological, and they contribute to the overall development and progression of the story. Dynamic characters are typically more complex and multidimensional, adding depth and realism to the narrative.

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  • 30. 

    is one who does not change much in the course of a story.

    • A.

      Foil

    • B.

      Static character

    • C.

      Dynamic character

    • D.

      Protagonist

    Correct Answer
    B. Static character
    Explanation
    A static character is someone who remains unchanged throughout the story. They do not undergo any significant personal growth or transformation. This character's personality, beliefs, and behaviors remain consistent from the beginning to the end of the story. They often serve as a contrast to dynamic characters who experience significant changes. In contrast to a foil, which is a character who contrasts with another character to highlight their traits, a static character is defined by their lack of change rather than their relationship with another character.

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  • 31. 

    two consecutive rhyming lines of poetry.

    • A.

      Couplet

    • B.

      Quatrain

    • C.

      Meter

    • D.

      Sextet

    Correct Answer
    A. Couplet
    Explanation
    A couplet is a pair of consecutive rhyming lines of poetry. It consists of two lines that are usually written in the same meter and have the same end rhyme. The use of couplets can create a sense of rhythm and provide a concise and impactful ending to a poem or stanza. In this context, the term "couplet" is the correct answer as it accurately describes the given definition.

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  • 32. 

    Deliberately suggesting two or more different, and sometimes conflicting, meanings in a work. An event or situation that may be interpreted in more than one way- this is done on purpose by the author, when it is not done on purpose, it is vagueness, and detracts from the work.

    • A.

      Situational irony

    • B.

      Ambiguity

    • C.

      Juxtaposition

    • D.

      Anthropomorphism

    Correct Answer
    B. Ambiguity
    Explanation
    Ambiguity refers to deliberately suggesting multiple meanings or interpretations in a work, often leading to conflicting interpretations. This is done intentionally by the author to create depth and complexity in the text. When ambiguity is not intentional, it is considered vagueness and can detract from the overall quality of the work.

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  • 33. 

    an adjective or adjective phrase applied to a person or thing that is frequentlyused to emphasize a characteristic quality. “Father of our country” and “the great Emancipator” are examples.

    • A.

      Epithet

    • B.

      Foil

    • C.

      Analogy

    • D.

      Allegory

    Correct Answer
    A. Epithet
    Explanation
    An epithet is an adjective or adjective phrase used to emphasize a characteristic quality of a person or thing. It is frequently used to highlight a specific attribute or trait. Examples such as "Father of our country" and "the great Emancipator" demonstrate the use of epithets to emphasize the importance and notable qualities of historical figures.

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  • 34. 

    a type of comedy in which ridiculous and often stereotyped characters are involved in silly, far-fetched situations.

    • A.

      Farce

    • B.

      Parable

    • C.

      Satire

    • D.

      Allegory

    Correct Answer
    A. Farce
    Explanation
    A farce is a type of comedy that involves ridiculous and often stereotyped characters who find themselves in silly and far-fetched situations. In a farce, the humor is derived from the exaggerated and absurd nature of the characters and their actions. This genre of comedy often relies on physical humor, mistaken identities, and misunderstandings to create laughter. Unlike other types of comedy, farce is not meant to be realistic or thought-provoking, but rather focuses on providing light-hearted entertainment through its outrageous and comedic situations.

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  • 35. 

    the use of language to evoke a picture or a concrete sensation of a person, a thing, a place, or an experience.

    • A.

      Symbol

    • B.

      Imagery

    • C.

      Simile

    • D.

      Hyperbole

    Correct Answer
    B. Imagery
    Explanation
    Imagery refers to the use of language that creates a vivid mental image or sensation in the reader's mind. It involves using descriptive words and phrases that appeal to the senses, such as sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell. By using imagery, the writer aims to make the reader feel as if they are experiencing the described person, thing, place, or experience firsthand. This can help to enhance the reader's understanding and emotional connection to the text.

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  • 36. 

    occurs when someone says one thing but really means something else.

    • A.

      Verbal irony

    • B.

      Situational irony

    • C.

      Dramatic irony

    • D.

      Satire

    Correct Answer
    A. Verbal irony
    Explanation
    Verbal irony is the correct answer because it refers to a situation where someone says something but actually means the opposite. It involves using words to convey a meaning that is different from the literal interpretation. This type of irony is often used for humor or to express sarcasm. It is different from situational irony, which involves a contrast between what is expected to happen and what actually happens, and dramatic irony, which occurs when the audience knows something that the characters do not. Satire, on the other hand, is a form of humor that uses irony, sarcasm, or exaggeration to criticize or mock something.

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  • 37. 

    takes place when there is a discrepancy between what is expected to happen, or what would be appropriate to happen, and what really does happen.

    • A.

      Verbal irony

    • B.

      Situational irony

    • C.

      Dramatic irony

    • D.

      Satire

    Correct Answer
    B. Situational irony
    Explanation
    Situational irony is the correct answer because it refers to a situation where there is a contrast between what is expected or appropriate to happen and what actually happens. In this type of irony, the outcome is often unexpected or contrary to what the audience or characters anticipate. It is different from verbal irony, which involves saying something that is the opposite of what is meant, and dramatic irony, which occurs when the audience knows something that the characters do not. Satire, on the other hand, is a form of humor that uses irony, sarcasm, or ridicule to criticize or expose human vices or follies.

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  • 38. 

    is so called because it is often used on stage. A character in the play or story thinks one thing is true, but the audience or reader knows better.

    • A.

      Verbal irony

    • B.

      Situational irony

    • C.

      Dramatic irony

    • D.

      Satire

    Correct Answer
    C. Dramatic irony
    Explanation
    Dramatic irony is the correct answer because it is a form of irony that occurs when the audience or reader knows something that the character in a play or story does not. This creates tension and often leads to humorous or suspenseful situations. In this case, the character believes something to be true, but the audience or reader is aware of the actual truth. This type of irony is commonly used in theater to engage and entertain the audience.

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  • 39. 

    a recurring image, word, phrase, action, idea, object, or situation used throughout a work (or in several works by one author), unifying the work by tying the current situation to previous ones, or new ideas to the theme.

    • A.

      Theme

    • B.

      Motif

    • C.

      Symbol

    • D.

      Foreshadowing

    Correct Answer
    B. Motif
    Explanation
    A motif is a recurring image, word, phrase, action, idea, object, or situation used throughout a work or by one author in multiple works. It serves to unify the work by connecting the current situation to previous ones or by linking new ideas to the overall theme. Unlike a symbol, which represents something abstract, a motif is a more concrete element that reappears throughout the work. It helps to enhance the depth and complexity of the story by adding layers of meaning and creating a sense of cohesion.

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  • 40. 

    the repetition of words or phrases that have similar grammatical structures.

    • A.

      Motif

    • B.

      Metonymy

    • C.

      Rhetoric

    • D.

      Parallel structure

    Correct Answer
    D. Parallel structure
    Explanation
    Parallel structure refers to the repetition of words or phrases that have similar grammatical structures. This technique is commonly used in writing and speaking to create balance and rhythm, and to emphasize certain ideas. By using parallel structure, the writer or speaker can make their message more clear and memorable. It helps to maintain consistency and coherence in a sentence or paragraph, making it easier for the reader or listener to follow along. In this case, parallel structure is the best choice among the given options as it directly relates to the repetition of words or phrases with similar grammatical structures.

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  • 41. 

    the reasons for a character’s behavior.

    • A.

      Foreshadowing

    • B.

      Characterization

    • C.

      Irony

    • D.

      Motivation

    Correct Answer
    D. Motivation
    Explanation
    Motivation refers to the underlying reasons or driving force behind a character's behavior. It provides an explanation for why a character acts in a particular way, revealing their desires, needs, or goals. Understanding a character's motivation helps readers to better comprehend their actions and decisions throughout the story. It adds depth to the character and makes their behavior more believable and relatable.

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  • 42. 

    a type of writing that ridicules the shortcomings of people or institutions in an attempt to bring about a change.

    • A.

      Parable

    • B.

      Satire

    • C.

      Parody

    • D.

      Elegy

    Correct Answer
    B. Satire
    Explanation
    Satire is a type of writing that uses humor, irony, and exaggeration to criticize and mock the flaws and shortcomings of individuals or institutions. It aims to bring about change by highlighting these issues in a satirical and often sarcastic manner. Unlike a parable, which is a short moral story, or an elegy, which is a mournful poem, satire focuses on social or political commentary through ridicule. A parody, on the other hand, imitates or mocks the style or characteristics of a particular work or genre for comedic effect.

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  • 43. 

    a statement that says less than what is meant. Example: During the second war with Iraq, American troops complained of a fierce sand storm that made even the night-vision equipment useless. A British commando commented about the storm: “It’s a bit breezy.”

    • A.

      Ambiguity

    • B.

      Oxymoron

    • C.

      Understatement

    • D.

      Hyperbole

    Correct Answer
    C. Understatement
    Explanation
    The given correct answer for this question is "understatement". This is because an understatement is a statement that says less than what is actually meant. In the example provided, the British commando's comment of "It's a bit breezy" downplays the severity of the sand storm, which is an understatement considering the negative impact it had on the American troops and their equipment.

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  • 44. 

    reference to someone or something that is known from history, literature, religion, politics, sports, science, or another branch of culture. An indirect reference to something (usually from literature, etc.).

    • A.

      Theme

    • B.

      Solioquy

    • C.

      Refrain

    • D.

      Allusion

    Correct Answer
    D. Allusion
    Explanation
    An allusion is a reference to someone or something that is known from history, literature, religion, politics, sports, science, or another branch of culture. It is an indirect reference usually made in literature or other forms of art. It allows the author to enhance their work by drawing upon the associations and emotions that the reader may have with the referenced person or thing.

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  • 45. 

    calling out to an imaginary, dead, or absent person, or to a place or thing, or a personified abstract idea. If the character is asking a god or goddess for inspiration it is called an invocation.

    • A.

      Personification

    • B.

      Soliloquy

    • C.

      Apostrophe

    • D.

      Monologue

    Correct Answer
    C. Apostrophe
    Explanation
    Apostrophe is the correct answer because it refers to the act of calling out to an imaginary, dead, or absent person, a place or thing, or a personified abstract idea. This literary device is often used to address someone or something that cannot respond, such as a god or goddess for inspiration. It is different from personification, which is the attribution of human characteristics to non-human things, and from soliloquy and monologue, which both refer to a speech by a single character, but without the aspect of addressing someone or something absent or imaginary.

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  • 46. 

    conflicts can exist between two people, between a person and nature or a machine or between a person a whole society.

    • A.

      Foil

    • B.

      Internal conflict

    • C.

      External conflict

    • D.

      Ambiguity

    Correct Answer
    C. External conflict
    Explanation
    External conflict refers to a struggle or clash between a character and an outside force, such as another person, nature, or society. This conflict is visible and tangible, as it involves actions and events that occur outside of the character's mind. In the given context, conflicts are mentioned between two people, a person and nature or a machine, and a person and a whole society. These examples clearly demonstrate external conflicts where the protagonist faces opposition and obstacles from external sources.

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  • 47. 

    a conflict involving opposing forces within a person’s mind.

    • A.

      Internal conflict

    • B.

      External conflict

    • C.

      Antagonist

    • D.

      Metonymy

    Correct Answer
    A. Internal conflict
    Explanation
    Internal conflict refers to a struggle or clash of opposing forces within a person's mind. It involves a psychological battle between different thoughts, emotions, or desires that create tension and turmoil within the individual. This conflict is internal because it is not influenced by external factors or other individuals, but rather arises from within the person's own thoughts and feelings. It can be a source of character development and can drive the plot of a story as the individual grapples with their inner dilemmas and tries to resolve them.

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  • 48. 

    a long narrative poem, written in heightened language , which recounts the deeds of a heroic character who embodies the values of a particular society.

    • A.

      Epic

    • B.

      Soliloquy

    • C.

      Monologue

    • D.

      Lyric poem

    Correct Answer
    A. Epic
    Explanation
    An epic is a long narrative poem that is written in elevated language and tells the story of a heroic character who represents the values of a specific society. It often involves grand adventures, battles, and supernatural elements. This genre of poetry is known for its epic heroes, such as Achilles in Homer's "Iliad" or Beowulf in the Anglo-Saxon epic. The epic is typically characterized by its length, epic language, and the exploration of universal themes and values.

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  • 49. 

    a statement that appears self-contradictory, but that reveals a kind of truth.

    • A.

      Situational irony

    • B.

      Metaphor

    • C.

      Analogy

    • D.

      Paradox

    Correct Answer
    D. Paradox
    Explanation
    A paradox is a statement that seems contradictory but actually reveals a deeper truth. It is often used to challenge conventional thinking and provoke thought. In a paradox, two opposing ideas are presented together, forcing the reader to reconsider their understanding of the subject. It creates a sense of irony and confusion, but ultimately leads to a greater understanding of the underlying concept.

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  • 50. 

    a figure of speech that makes an explicitly comparison between two unlike things, using words such as like, as , than, or resembles.

    • A.

      Metaphor

    • B.

      Simile

    • C.

      Analogy

    • D.

      Allegory

    Correct Answer
    B. Simile
    Explanation
    A simile is a figure of speech that directly compares two unlike things using words such as "like," "as," "than," or "resembles." It is a form of figurative language that helps create vivid imagery and enhance the reader's understanding by drawing similarities between two unrelated concepts. Unlike a metaphor, which implies a direct comparison, a simile uses explicit language to make the comparison clear. Therefore, the correct answer is simile.

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Quiz Review Timeline +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Mar 19, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Aug 05, 2016
    Quiz Created by
    Cdpittman
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