Alloeostropha

/ˌæloʊiːˈɒstrəfə/ noun

Definition

A rhetorical structure where the speaker alternately addresses different persons or changes the target of address.

Etymology

From Greek allo- (other, different) + -strophe (turning, stanza). This technical term combines Greek roots to describe a sophisticated rhetorical turning or alternation in address throughout a passage.

Kelly Says

Alloeostropha is a term ancient Greek scholars invented to describe one of their favorite rhetorical tricks—bouncing your address between different people or entities to create dramatic intensity—something poets still do today.

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