Figures of Speech
Anastrophe
Invert the natural order of words to create emphasis and poetic effect.
Last updated
What it is
A rhetorical device that inverts the normal grammatical order of words, typically by placing the most important element first or rearranging adjectives and nouns. This creates emphasis, makes language more memorable, and adds a formal or poetic quality to speech.
Before & after
Before
“Our new approach is truly innovative and groundbreaking.”
After
“Innovative and groundbreaking, our new approach truly is.”
When you’ll use it
Formal presentations: 'Impressive, these results are' instead of 'These results are impressive'
Mission statements: 'Excellence in service, our commitment' rather than 'Our commitment is excellence in service'
Product launches: 'Revolutionary, this technology is' to emphasize the key attribute first
Pro tip
Flip the sentence. Put the powerful descriptor before what it describes for maximum impact.
Questions & answers
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