English Advanced – Sample Multiple Choice Quiz: Literary Techniques

The ideas, feelings or concepts associated with specific words, phrases or situations that go beyond their literal meaning. Word choices are often made with the _________ of each word in mind to create a particular atmosphere or tone. In some instances an interaction or situation may have underlying ________ as well.

Similar to alliteration, however in this case it is vowel sounds that are repeated. This may be at the beginning of words/phrases, or within the words themselves. Very common in poetry.

Refers to an author’s particular choice of word. Shifting _____ can totally change the meaning of the sentence.

Two contradictory words or concepts used together to create a strange or complex thing/idea that still makes sense. _______ tend to add an extra level of meaning to the concepts discussed and are often used as descriptors. Common in poetry.

The purposeful over-exaggeration of a statement in order to create a more intense or over-the-top effect. ________ can be paired with similes or metaphors and are most commonly used in highly emotive situations or dialogue to create an even greater emotional reaction. Can also be humorous if used in mundane settings.

This occurs when one text makes reference to another text, either obviously or in a more subtle way (e.g. allusions) in order to make a point or draw links between the two.

The act of referring to something not by its actual name but by a figurative name or the name of something associated with it. Many everyday phrases are examples of ________.

When something is left to the reader’s imagination. Often this involves the author not stating explicitly what is happening, what has been said, etc. This boosts reader interest as they are encouraged to make up their own mind about what is happening, or they become suspicious of what they have not been explicitly told. Common in poetry.

When an object, person, etc. represents a more complex idea, concept or theme. Similar to icons, however _______ doesn’t always represent something larger or more important than the literal object, and can also represent relationships, interactions, etc.

This is essentially a ‘story within a story’, wherein the main narrative is being told, remembered, etc. by someone in the outside narrative. This is much easier to see and understand in films, though it is also very popular in written texts and novels – especially those that ‘jump’ between time settings from chapter to chapter.