The word "antistrophe" is commonly misspelled due to its complex spelling. The IPA phonetic transcription of the word is æntɪstrəfi. The first syllable is pronounced as "ant" with a short "a" sound, followed by "i" with a short "i" sound. The second syllable is pronounced with a long "o" sound, and "rho" is pronounced as "r." The "e" at the end is silent. Antistrophe refers to a rhetorical device where the second clause of a sentence or paragraph repeats the first word or phrase.
Antistrophe is a rhetorical and poetic device characterized by the repetition of the same words or phrases at the end of successive clauses, sentences, or verses. Derived from the Greek word "antistrophe," meaning "turning back," this device helps create a rhythmic and melodic effect in spoken or written communication. It is commonly used in ancient Greek drama and poetry to enhance the dramatic impact and to underscore certain ideas or emotions.
In terms of structure, antistrophe is often paired with the device of anaphora. While anaphora repeats words or phrases at the beginning of successive clauses or verses, antistrophe repeats them at the end. This parallelism aims to elicit a particular response or emphasize a specific point. It can create a sense of balance, continuity, and flow in both written and spoken discourse.
Antistrophe can serve various purposes, including reinforcing an argument, emphasizing an idea or emotion, creating a memorable rhythmic pattern, or maintaining the overall unity and coherence of a piece of literature or rhetoric. By repeating words or phrases in a strategic placement, the writer or speaker can draw attention to significant concepts and enhance their impact on the audience. The skillful use of antistrophe can give a piece of writing or speech a captivating and powerful quality that engages and resonates with its intended audience.
The stanza of a chorus or ode succeeding the strophe.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "antistrophe" originated from the Greek language. Its etymology can be broken down as follows:
- "Anti-" (ἀντι): This is a Greek preposition meaning "against" or "opposite to". It indicates a sense of counteraction or opposition.
- "Strophe" (στροφή): Also from Greek, this noun means "a turning" or "a twisting". It is derived from the verb "strepho" (στρέφω), which means "to turn" or "to twist".
When combined, "anti-" and "strophe" form the word "antistrophe", which conveys the idea of a turn or counterturn.