Glossary of literary terms

This glossary of literary terms is a list of definitions of terms and concepts used in the discussion, classification, analysis, and criticism of all types of literature, such as poetry, novels, and picture books, as well as of grammar, syntax, and language techniques.

For a more complete glossary of terms relating to poetry in particular, see Glossary of poetry terms.

Also apophthegm.Also called lexis or word choice.Also called bourgeois tragedy.Also hendiaduo and figure of twins.Also iambus.Also called a flashforward.Also called a dibrach.Also synaesthesia.Also Menippean satire.Also called a turn.