Definition

The use of the same word or phrase at the end of different sentences or phrases to create emphasis or a poetic effect.

Example

In his famous speech, Lincoln used epistrophe when he repeated the phrase 'of the people, by the people, for the people.'

Conversation

Have you ever noticed how powerful epistrophe can be in speeches?

Definitely! It really emphasizes the message they're trying to convey.

Right? I think it adds a nice rhythm too, like in poetry.

Exactly! It makes the words stick in your mind even longer.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Epistrophe is formed from "epi-" (meaning upon or over) and "strophe" (from Greek "strophē", meaning a turn or a twist). The term refers to a rhetorical device where a word or phrase is repeated at the end of successive clauses, creating a turn in the argument or speech.

Memory Tip

Think of 'epi-' meaning 'upon' and 'strophe' meaning 'turn' — this helps you remember that epistrophe involves a repeated turn of phrase at the end of sentences.

Visually Confused Words