Elements of Style

Coherence – How to Achieve Coherence in Writing

What is Coherence? Coherence in writing refers to the logical connections and consistency that hold a text together, making it understandable and meaningful to the reader. Writers create coherence in three ways: What is Logical Consistency? What is Conceptual Consistency? What is Linguistic Consistency? Synonyms Related Concepts: Flow; Given to New Contract; Grammar; Organization; Organizational ...

Wrong Word

What Does it Mean to Use the Wrong Word? English is a tricky language. Words can be easily confused for similar sounding words (homonyms). When in doubt, research the word you are using to make sure that it means what you think it means.  Related Concepts: Audience; Diction; Editing; Rhetorical Analysis; Rhetorical Reasoning Examples Accede—verb—to agree or consent Ex. I ...

Abstract Language is the discourse of published peer-reviewed articles and conference proceedings

Abstract Language

What is Abstract Language? Abstract language is Related Concepts Concrete, Sensory Writing; Description; Code Switching; Figurative Language; Given to New Contract; Register; Vague Language; Writer-Based Prose Style Why Does Abstract Language Matter? Abstract language empowers writers, speakers, knowledge makers . . . to Abstract language is widely employed in peer-reviewed journals and publications. It is ...

Homonym

Homonyms are words that are pronounced similarly but mean different things words that are spelled the same words that are pronounced similarly. Accede—verb—to agree or consentEx: I accede to your request for help. Exceed—verb—to go over an expected limitEx: If you exceed the speed limit, you may get a speeding ticket. Accept—verb—to receiveEx: I would ...

Simile

A simile is a particular type of metaphor that compares two objects that are essentially not like one another. A simile, unlike a metaphor, introduces this comparison with the words “like” or “as.” My essay’s introduction is like the first sip of a fine wine—that is a simile; My essay’s introduction is the first sip ...

Personification

Personification is the act of giving animals, inanimate objects, and ideas human form, personality, or emotion. Though you would not want to employ personification too much in an essay (just as you also have to be careful about the frequency of your similes and metaphors—too many can make your writing tedious or pretentious), one or ...

Metaphor

Metaphor is a figure of speech that identifies one thing with another. Metaphors do not use “like” or “as” but equate the two terms you are comparing. Effective metaphors capture your reader’s attention, and by creating strong, clear, interesting images, help the reader better understand and remember your point. Examples: The financial crisis in America ...

Unity

What is Unity (in Writing)? Unity refers to Related Concepts: Felt Sense; Gestalt; Organization; Thesis. FAQs What’s the difference between unity and coherence? Unity refers to a writer’s effort to make sure every bit of discourse — every word, phrase, clause, sentence, and paragraph — directly contributes to the main narrative or thesis. For instance, ...