Anaphora

/əˈnæfərə/ noun

Definition

A rhetorical device involving the repetition of the same word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses, sentences, or lines. Common in poetry and speeches for emphasis.

Etymology

From Greek 'anaphora' meaning 'carrying back' or 'repetition,' from 'ana-' (back) + 'pherein' (to carry). Used in rhetoric since ancient Greek and Roman times.

Kelly Says

Think 'ANA-PHORA' as 'carrying back the PHRASE' - you keep carrying the same words back to the beginning! Martin Luther King's 'I have a dream' speech is the perfect example - same phrase, powerful effect.

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