How Do You Spell PATHOS?

Pronunciation: [pˈe͡ɪθɒs] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "pathos" can be confusing to some as the pronunciation is not always reflected in the spelling. "Pathos" is pronounced /ˈpeɪθɒs/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the stress on the first syllable. The "th" is pronounced as a voiceless dental fricative /θ/, like in "think", unlike the voiced "th" in "that". This word, which means a quality that evokes pity or sadness, may seem difficult to spell but with practice, the spelling will become more familiar.

PATHOS Meaning and Definition

  1. Pathos is a literary device that appeals to the emotions of the audience. Derived from the Greek word "pathos," which means suffering or experience, it is used to create an emotional connection and elicit feelings of pity, sympathy, or compassion within readers or viewers. Pathos is commonly employed as a means of persuasion, aiming to appeal to the reader's empathy and evoke an emotional response.

    In literature, pathos can be achieved through various techniques such as vivid descriptions of characters or situations, the use of emotionally charged language, or the portrayal of poignant events. By vividly depicting suffering or hardship, the writer aims to tap into the audience's emotions, engage their empathy, and provoke an emotional reaction.

    Pathos is not limited to literature; it can be found in other forms of communication as well, including speeches, advertisements, and visual arts. In rhetoric, pathos is one of the three canonical modes of persuasion, alongside ethos (appeal to credibility or ethics) and logos (appeal to logic). By employing pathos, speakers or writers seek to connect with their audience on a deeper emotional level, often by telling stories, invoking personal experiences, or presenting compelling imagery.

    Overall, pathos is a powerful tool employed in various forms of communication to evoke emotions, gain the audience's attention, and foster a stronger connection between the writer or speaker and the recipient.

  2. The manner or style of speech which excites the tender emotions of the mind; expression of strong or deep feeling.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PATHOS

Etymology of PATHOS

The word "pathos" has its roots in ancient Greek. It comes from the Greek word "pathos", which means "suffering" or "feeling". In Greek philosophy and rhetoric, pathos referred to an emotional appeal or the ability to evoke emotions in the audience. The word later made its way into Latin as "pathos" and eventually entered the English language around the 16th century.

Similar spelling words for PATHOS

Infographic

Add the infographic to your website: