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Modifying meaning

Techniques > Use of language > Modifying meaning

A common pattern in language is to modify the meaning of what is said such that you appear to say one thing but actually say something else.

• Distortion: Change words and syntax, change meaning.
• Emphasis in writing: changing meaning by how you write it.
• Enhancing with adjectives: to add power to nouns.
• Enhancing with adverbs: to intensify and increase communication.
• Extensional devices: Being more specific.
• Floppy language: unintentional modification.
• Generalization: Taking things to the extreme.
• Modulation: Change meaning with pitch.
• Nominalization: Turning a verb into a noun.
• Objectification: Turning a person or concept into a thing.
• Omission: Leaving things out.
• Qualifiers: changing how absolute, certain or generalized a statement is.
• Redefinition: Changing he meaning of each word.
• Unclear language: Improper use that can confuse.
• Using emphasis: changing meaning by how you say it.
• Vagueness: Being uncertain makes them think.
• Weasel words: words that weaken truth of a statement.

See also

Parts of speech, Persuasive language, Meaning

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