CHIASMUS Meaning and
Definition
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Chiasmus is a rhetorical device that involves the repetition of grammatical structures or concepts in an inverted or mirrored order. It is typically used to create a balanced and memorable phrase or sentence. The term "chiasmus" is derived from the shape of the Greek letter "chi" (X), which represents the crossing or crisscrossing of elements in chiasmus.
In a chiasmus, the second half of a sentence or phrase is a reversed or mirrored version of the first half, creating a symmetrical structure. This device is employed to enhance the impact of the statement by providing a contrasting or parallel arrangement of words or ideas.
Chiasmus is commonly used in literature, poetry, speeches, and even everyday conversations. It is used to catch the attention of the audience, emphasize a point, deliver memorable quotes, create a pattern, or express contrasting ideas.
An example of chiasmus is President John F. Kennedy's famous quote, "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country." The repeated structure of "what your country can do for you" and "what you can do for your country" creates a balanced and impactful statement.
Overall, chiasmus is a powerful rhetorical technique that adds depth, balance, and memorability to a statement by using inverted, mirrored, or contrasting grammatical structures or concepts in a sentence or phrase.
Common Misspellings for CHIASMUS
- xhiasmus
- vhiasmus
- fhiasmus
- dhiasmus
- cgiasmus
- cbiasmus
- cniasmus
- cjiasmus
- cuiasmus
- cyiasmus
- chuasmus
- chjasmus
- chkasmus
- choasmus
- ch9asmus
- ch8asmus
- chizsmus
- chissmus
- chiwsmus
Etymology of CHIASMUS
The word "chiasmus" is derived from the Greek word "chiázō", which means "to shape like the letter Chi (Χ)". The term refers to a literary or rhetorical figure in which the order of words or phrases in the first of two parallel clauses is reversed in the second, creating a mirror-like structure. The word "chiasmus" was coined in the 19th century by classical scholars to describe this specific literary device.
Similar spelling word for CHIASMUS
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