Important Rhetorical Devices

By Shanie Huynh

March 2, 2016

First things first: what are rhetorical devices? Rhetorical devices are techniques in writing that
are used to create a certain effect. Writer Kerry Dirk, in his article Navigating Genres, claims
that recognizing the rhetorical situation of your action and choosing to act in a manner would
result in the outcome you desired (253). Dirks statement shows the importance of rhetorical
devices since they lead to a desired outcome. There are many rhetorical devices out there, but
which ones are the most effective? The most commonly used? The easiest to use to convey a
point? Here are some of the rhetorical devices that are most useful to know, in no particular
order.
1. Diction
What it is The style of speaking or writing determined by the choice of words used.
How to use it Employ vocabulary that is appropriate to the genre in which you are
writing. Words that have similar denotations could have very different connotations, so
choose your words wisely. Like Laura Bolin Carroll stated in her article, Backpacks vs.
Briefcases, One of the first places to start is context (48). The situation establishes
what type of words can be used so it is crucial to consider the context first. Determine in
what context you are writing and utilize words that are relevant in that situation. For
example, more complex language shows professionalism and formality.
2. Imagery
What it is Visually descriptive language to create mental pictures in the readers
mind. This sensory language includes details of sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. In
his article, What is Academic Writing?, L. Lennie Irvin explained, When we speak
we inhabit the communication situation bodily in three dimensions, but in writing we are
confined within the two- dimensional setting of the flat page (6). Since writing is
restricted to the paper, there needs to be more sensory descriptions so that the reader
clearly understands the work. Therefore, it is necessary to provide more delineating
words in order to bring the piece to life.
How to use it Because imagery appeals to the senses, lots of description words and
vivid details should be used. Use adjectives and describing language to paint a picture in
the audiences head. Try to envision an illustration in your own mind first and then

transfer those images into words in your piece of work.

3. Ethos
What it is Mode of persuasion that appeals to ones ethics by showing credibility.
How to use it If you want to use ethos, you have to establish a reliable stance and show
that you are trustworthy and credible. Make yourself sound more reliable by exerting
your knowledge on the topic. Show that you know what you are talking and that
everything you say has evidence to back it up.
4. Pathos
What it is Mode of persuasion that appeals to ones emotions and evokes sentimental
response.
How to use it You want to lead the audience to feel sympathy and tug at their
heartstrings, so use word choice that would arouse any kind of feelings. Connect with
your audience and put emphasis on the emotional tone. Connotations is super important
as it can change the inflection of the sentence. Stories are often a good way to evoke a
sense of pathos.
5. Logos
What it is Mode of persuasion that appeals to ones logic and reason.
How to use it For logos, you want to make use of facts. The basis of logic is clear,
concrete evidence, so use statistics, data and other irrefutable facts. However, you do not
want to overdo it and insert random facts everywhere. Be sure to place them where
needed and do not forget to support your claims with specific information.
6. Tone
What it is The attitude of a piece.
How to use it Tone incorporates all of the above mentioned rhetorical devices. By using
all of these devices, you can assert a certain tone and show your audience the demeanor
of your piece. This is how you convey your message in a particular way and it also
affects how the reader perceives the message, so this is a significant device to take note
of. First, identify the purpose of your work and the audience to which it is addressed.
From there, you will be able to pinpoint the most appropriate tone to use.

Works Cited
Carroll, Laura Bolin. "Backpacks vs. Briefcases." Writing Spaces: Readings on Writing. Vol. 1.
N.p.: Parlor, 2010. 45-58. Print.
Dirk, Kerry. "Navigating Genres." Writing Spaces: Readings on Writing. Vol. 1. N.p.: Parlor,
2010. 249-62. Print.
Irvin, L. Lennie. "What Is "Academic" Writing?" Writing Spaces: Readings on Writing. Vol. 1.
N.p.: Parlor, 2010. 3-17. Print.