Definition

A way of speaking where you make a statement less strong by saying what it is not, like saying 'not bad' to mean 'good'.

Example

Using litotes, she said he was 'not the worst player' to imply he was quite good.

Conversation

I read a poem that used a really interesting figure of speech called litotes.

Oh, I've heard of that! It's like saying something is 'not bad' instead of just saying it's good, right?

Exactly! It adds a unique twist to the way we express things.

I love that! It makes the language feel more rich and nuanced.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Litotes → It is derived from the Greek word "litotes" (λιτότης), meaning simplicity or plainness, which comes from "litos" (λίτος), meaning smooth or plain. The term refers to a figure of speech that uses understatement to emphasize a point by stating a negative to affirm a positive.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek word for smooth or plain ('litos') to remember that 'litotes' is a way of expressing something by stating it simply or underplaying it.

Visually Confused Words