Glossary
Anomalous
Deviating from what is standard, normal, or expected; abnormal or irregular.
Example:
The scientist noted the anomalous reading on the sensor, as it was completely inconsistent with previous observations.
Audience
The intended readers or listeners of a piece of writing or speech, whose characteristics influence the author's rhetorical choices.
Example:
When writing a persuasive letter, considering the audience's values and beliefs is crucial for effective communication.
Castigate
To reprimand or punish someone severely, often verbally.
Example:
The coach had to castigate the team for their lack of effort during the final minutes of the game.
Claim
An arguable statement that serves as the main point or thesis of an essay, representing the author's opinion on a topic.
Example:
The essay's central claim was that standardized testing unfairly disadvantages students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
Claim of Fact
A statement that asserts something is true or not true, often requiring empirical data or widely accepted knowledge for support.
Example:
The argument that 'Climate change is primarily caused by human activities' is a claim of fact supported by scientific consensus.
Claim of Policy
A statement that proposes a change or a course of action, suggesting what 'should' or 'ought' to be done.
Example:
The city council debated the claim of policy that 'All public parks should offer free Wi-Fi access to promote community engagement.'
Claim of Value
A statement that makes a judgment about the worth, goodness, or morality of something, often involving subjective criteria.
Example:
To argue that 'Shakespeare's plays are the most profound works in English literature' is to make a claim of value.
Commentary
The explanation and analysis of how evidence supports a claim, demonstrating the writer's analytical skills and connecting the evidence to the main argument.
Example:
After presenting data on declining test scores, the writer's commentary explained how these statistics directly illustrated the need for educational reform.
Diction
The choice and use of words and phrases in speech or writing, significantly impacting the tone and clarity of a text.
Example:
The author's formal diction in the opening paragraph immediately established a serious and academic tone for the essay.
Disabuse
To free someone from an error, misconception, or false belief.
Example:
It was difficult to disabuse him of the notion that he could become a professional athlete without consistent practice.
Ennui
A feeling of weariness and dissatisfaction arising from a lack of occupation or excitement; boredom.
Example:
The long, uneventful summer days filled the teenager with a profound sense of ennui, making him yearn for the start of school.
Evidence
Facts, examples, statistics, expert opinions, or personal experiences used to support and prove a claim.
Example:
The student used compelling evidence, including recent crime statistics and expert testimony, to support their argument for increased police presence.
Megalomania
A delusion or mental illness marked by feelings of personal omnipotence or extreme wealth.
Example:
The dictator's megalomania led him to believe he was invincible and could control every aspect of his citizens' lives.