Epistrophe

/ɪˈpɪstrəfi/ noun

Definition

A rhetorical device where successive clauses or sentences end with the same word or phrase, creating emphasis and rhythm.

Etymology

From Greek 'epi-' (upon) + 'strophē' (turning, return), literally meaning 'a turning back or returning,' since the same word returns at the end of phrases.

Kelly Says

Lincoln used epistrophe powerfully: 'that government of the people, by the people, for the people shall not perish'—the repeated 'people' hammers home his message.

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