How Do You Spell ANTEMBASIS?

Pronunciation: [ˈantɪmbəsˌiz] (IPA)

The word "Antembasis" is a Greek term used in rhetoric to describe the act of refuting an opponent's argument by using their own words against them. It is pronounced as /æntəmˈbeɪsɪs/ with stress on the second syllable. To help with its spelling, the phonetic transcription shows that the "e" in "ante" is pronounced as "ə" while the "a" in "asis" is pronounced as "eɪ". The word may not be commonly used, but knowing its spelling and pronunciation can add to one's knowledge of the history and art of rhetoric.

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ANTEMBASIS Meaning and Definition

  1. Antembasis is a rhetorical figure or literary device commonly employed in persuasive writing, speeches, or debates. Derived from the Greek words "anti" (meaning against) and "embasis" (meaning an emphasis or diving in), antembasis involves the use of a contrasting or opposing statement immediately following a statement, argument, or proposition. It can also be referred to as a rebuttal or refutation.

    The purpose of antembasis is to highlight the opposing viewpoint or proposition and immediately discredit or counter it. By presenting an argument followed by its opposing idea, the speaker or writer aims to assert their own point of view as superior, compelling, or more reasonable. The contrasting statement allows for a direct comparison and demonstrates the weaknesses or flaws in the opposing position.

    Antembasis can be used to add depth and persuasion to a writer's or speaker's argument. By acknowledging and addressing the opposing viewpoint head-on, it shows that the author or speaker has considered alternative perspectives and has the ability to anticipate and refute counterarguments effectively.

    Overall, antembasis is a rhetorical device that serves as a powerful tool for persuasion by juxtaposing opposing viewpoints and effectively countering them. It enables the writer or speaker to highlight the strength and validity of their own argument or proposition while diminishing the credibility and persuasiveness of opposing opinions.

Etymology of ANTEMBASIS

The word "Antembasis" has its roots in the Greek language.

The term "Antembasis" is derived from two Greek words: "anti", meaning "against" or "opposite to", and "embasis", which means "a stepping on" or "a setting foot".

In rhetoric, "Antembasis" refers to a figure of speech in which a writer or speaker counters a previous argument or statement by emphasizing the opposite or presenting contrasting evidence. The term was first used and explained by ancient Greek rhetoricians and writers such as Aristotle and Hermogenes.

So, the etymology of "Antembasis" can be traced back to ancient Greek, where it was formed by combining these two words to describe a specific rhetorical technique.

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