FIGURES OF SPEECH - 7 | ANTICLIMAX | EPIGRAM | EUPHEMISM

A figure of speech is an ornamental use of words.

A figure of speech may be defined as a change from the plain and ordinary mode of expression for the sake of emphasis or to beautify the language.

Figure of speech is a technique or a tool of expression, by means of which one deviates from the ordinary expression in order to produce a better or a more emphatic linguistic effect.

Figures of speech are commonly used in poetry to enhance the beauty, imagery, poetic effect and rhyme scheme of the poem.

ANTICLIMAX

It is the opposite of Climax and signifies a sudden, and at times an absurd descent from the higher to the lower.

Here a series of ideas are arranged in the order of decreasing importance. (A descending order)

Examples:

1. She lost her gold chain, her wrist watch and her pen.

The given line is an example of Anti climax.

Here, the ideas are arranged in descending order of importance.

2. A lie is a sin, an abominable act and a useful help in time of trouble.

The given line is an example of Anti climax.

Here, the ideas are arranged in descending order of importance.

EPIGRAM 

An epigram is a brief pointed statement often showing an apparent contradiction.

Example:

1. The child is the father of man.

EUPHEMISM

When a harsh, unpleasant or strong idea is conveyed in mild terms, it is known as euphemism.

Examples:

1. She was relieved of her values during her homeward journey.

The harsh idea 'of being robbed' is conveyed using a milder term 'was relieved '.