Fiveable
Fiveable

Inversion

Definition

Inversion refers to the reversal of the usual word order in a sentence, typically for emphasis or poetic effect.

Analogy

Imagine you're playing a game of basketball and suddenly, instead of shooting the ball towards the hoop, you throw it backwards over your head. That unexpected move is like inversion in writing - it grabs attention and adds a unique twist to your sentences.

Related terms

Parallelism: Parallelism is when phrases or clauses in a sentence have similar grammatical structure, creating balance and rhythm.

Anaphora: Anaphora is the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences for emphasis.

Chiasmus: Chiasmus is a rhetorical device where words or ideas are repeated in reverse order to create an artistic effect.



© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.


© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.