Definition

A term in linguistics that refers to the use of a word or phrase to refer back to another word or phrase, often used for clarity or emphasis. It can also mean the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive sentences or clauses.

Example

In the sentence 'When he arrived, he was surprised to see her', 'he' is an example of anaphora referring back to a previously mentioned noun.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term anaphora in writing?

Yeah, I think it refers to the repetition of a word or phrase, right?

Exactly! It’s a powerful tool for emphasis in poetry and speeches.

Totally! I remember it being used effectively in some famous quotes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Anaphora is formed from "ana-" (meaning back or again) and "phora" (from the Greek "pherein", meaning to carry or bear). The term refers to the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses, effectively carrying the meaning back to the audience.

Memory Tip

Think of 'carrying back' ('ana-') a word or phrase in a speech or text, which helps you remember that anaphora involves repeating something for emphasis.

Visually Confused Words