Polisíndeton (Polysyndeton)

Definition

Polysyndeton is a literary device where conjunctions are used repeatedly in quick succession within sentences or clauses.

Analogy

Think about when someone tells a funny story and keeps adding "and" before every detail. For example, "And then he tripped over his shoelaces, and spilled his drink all over himself, and everyone started laughing." This excessive use of conjunctions is like polysyndeton, adding emphasis and creating a sense of urgency.

Related terms

Asíndeton (Asyndeton): The deliberate omission of conjunctions in a sentence or clause for stylistic effect.

Anadiplosis: Repetition of the last word or phrase from the previous clause at the beginning of the next clause.

Metáfora (Metaphor): A figure of speech that compares two unrelated things without using "like" or "as."