Cataphasis definitions
| Word backwards | sisahpatac |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Noun |
| Syllabic division | ca-ta-pha-sis |
| Plural | The plural form of the word "cataphasis" is "cataphases." |
| Total letters | 10 |
| Vogais (2) | a,i |
| Consonants (5) | c,t,p,h,s |
Cataphasis
Cataphasis, also known as apophasis, is a rhetorical device used to draw attention to something by explicitly stating that it will not be mentioned. This technique is commonly used in literature and speech to indirectly bring up a subject without directly addressing it.
Origin and Usage
Cataphasis has its roots in ancient Greek rhetoric and has been used throughout history in various forms of communication. This device allows the speaker or writer to allude to a sensitive or controversial topic without openly discussing it.
Example in Literature
An example of cataphasis can be found in Shakespeare's Julius Caesar when Mark Antony says, "I come not, friends, to steal away your hearts." By stating that he is not there to "steal away" their hearts, he is subtly accomplishing just that through reverse psychology.
Modern Usage
In modern times, cataphasis is frequently used in political speeches and debates as a way to bring up an opponent's weaknesses without overtly attacking them. By stating that certain topics will not be discussed, the speaker can draw attention to those very topics.
Effectiveness
The effectiveness of cataphasis lies in its ability to plant ideas in the minds of the audience without directly stating them. By hinting at a subject rather than openly addressing it, the speaker can create intrigue and curiosity among the listeners.
In conclusion, cataphasis is a powerful rhetorical device that allows speakers and writers to address sensitive topics indirectly. By stating that something will not be mentioned, they are actually drawing attention to it in a subtle and effective way.
Cataphasis Examples
- During the debate, the politician used cataphasis by pretending not to mention his opponent's scandalous past.
- The journalist employed cataphasis when she indirectly referenced the celebrity's addictive behavior without explicitly stating it.
- In her speech, the teacher skillfully utilized cataphasis to hint at the student's poor attendance without directly addressing it.
- The author employed cataphasis in his novel by subtly alluding to the antagonist's evil deeds without explicitly describing them.
- During the press conference, the spokesperson used cataphasis to subtly criticize the company's competitors without naming them directly.
- The comedian employed cataphasis in his joke by subtly mocking his neighbor's obnoxious behavior without mentioning them by name.
- The marketing team used cataphasis in their ad campaign by hinting at the inefficiencies of their competitor's product without explicitly stating it.
- The manager utilized cataphasis in her feedback by indirectly addressing the employee's unprofessional conduct without pointing it out directly.
- The spokesperson employed cataphasis in the press release by subtly hinting at the company's financial troubles without explicitly stating them.
- The author skillfully used cataphasis in his essay by indirectly referencing the government's controversial policies without explicitly mentioning them.