8 Types Of Diction in English Literature with Examples

The most common thing that you would have observed about writer or author is that they have a unique style of writing. No two writers can be the same. This is called diction. When a writer makes a specific choice of words to convey his message or express his thoughts to establish a unique style is called diction. There are 8 different styles of diction that impact how different ideas can be expressed.

1. Formal Diction

In the case of formal diction, the writers make use of sophisticated language that does not have any slang or colloquialisms. They abide by the grammar rules and frame complex sentence structures. You can find the use of formal diction in professional texts, business documents, academic texts, and legal papers.

2. Informal Diction

Informal diction is very conversational. Writers make use of narrative literature. It shows how people communicate in their vernacular. With this style, writers can depict more realistic characters in their short stories or novels.

Read more on: Formal vs Informal Diction

3. Pedantic Diction

In this particular diction, the writer is focused on the highly detailed or academic style of writing. They are very selective in their choice of words that would be used only to convey a specific meaning. This style is used in literature by native writers.

4. Colloquial Diction

This style makes use of colloquial words and phrases and very informal in nature. It is used to represent a region or time. It will add color and realism to the content.

5. Slang Diction

You could see that this style makes use of slang words. The Slang words are originated within a specific culture or subgroup. The original words are shortened or modified or sometimes take a different meaning.

6. Abstract

The writer will make use of words that would express something intangible – an idea or emotion.

7. Concrete Diction

In this style, the words used are showing their literal meaning and refer to things that would appeal to the senses.

8. Poetic Diction

Mostly used by the poets. They use lyrical words that relate to some specific themes in a poem and phrases. It will involve descriptive language with rhyming words.

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