Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Diction refers to the choice of words and phrases used in a literary work. It encompasses the writer's vocabulary, word order, and overall style of expression.
Syntax refers to the arrangement of words and phrases in a sentence or line of poetry. It focuses on how words are structured and organized within a sentence.
Connotation refers to the emotional or cultural associations that certain words carry beyond their literal meanings. It explores the deeper implications and feelings evoked by specific word choices.
Register: Register refers to variations in language based on social context, audience, or purpose. It involves adjusting one's diction according to formal or informal situations.