英语修辞学Teaching material for Ss.docVIP

3.2 Lexical Devices 3.2.1 Introduction In this section we will deal with two main types of lexical devices. One is lexical options, or the way writers choose their words to express their ideas clearly and effectively, in the appropriate context and situation. The other is lexical repetition, or the way writers repeat words for artistic and stylistic effect. ?1. General Remarks When we say the pen is mightier than the sword, we really imply that words have power. A large vocabulary, alone，however，does not give one power with words. It is ones stock of vocabulary plus the knowledge of how to use words correctly and appropriately in the right place and to the right person that gives one the freedom and ability to influence with words. The lexical options are many and varied because: The English vocabulary is rich, heterogeneous and cosmopolitan. The wealth of synonyms, and the subtle Shades of meaning between synonymous words, makes the making of choices sometimes even difficult. The English language, moreover, has greatly changed from what it was in Shakespeares time, or even in Dickenss time. Below is a discussion of major lexical options that have prevailed to this day. 2. Short Words or Long Words ? Short words: monosyllabic words of Anglo-Saxon origin Long words: polysyllabic words of Latin, French or Greek origin. The English vernacular has a large number of monosyllabic words. These words were once considered not conducive (helpful) to elegant, scholarly or artistic expression. On the other hand, the abundant use of polysyllabic words often makes for a heavy cumbersome effect, however learned the subject or tone. The decision to use a short word or a long one is not always a simple one. There are many factors involved. For one thing, words have other qualities besides shortness or longness. They have sound and meaning and associations. Shakespeare knew the magic of monosyllabic words if used with an ear to their sound, sense and “trippin