Figures of Speech
Anticlimax (Bathos)

Build up then deflate expectations for humorous effect.

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What it is

A rhetorical device that deliberately presents ideas in descending order of importance, moving from significant to trivial matters. Also called bathos, this technique can be used for comedic effect, to deflate tension, or to emphasize the absurdity of a situation by contrasting weighty expectations with mundane reality.

Before & after

Before

“We achieved revenue growth, market expansion, and fixed the printer.”

After

“We revolutionized the industry, transformed customer experience, and... finally fixed the coffee machine.”

When you’ll use it

Crafting persuasive speeches that rely on memorable wording

Writing marketing copy or slogans that stick with the audience

Building literary analyses or commentary on style choices

Pro tip

Build seriously, then drop to the mundane with perfect timing.

Questions & answers

3 questions

What is anticlimax in speaking?

Anticlimax deliberately arranges ideas from most to least important, creating humor, emphasis thr...

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When should I use anticlimax in business communication?

Use anticlimax for humor, to emphasize the simplicity of solutions, or to highlight overlooked de...

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How is anticlimax different from just poor organization?

Intentional anticlimax serves a rhetorical purpose—humor, emphasis, or surprise. Poor organizatio...

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Learn more

ThoughtCo - Anticlimax in Literature
Six Minutes - Add Impact with Rhetorical Devices

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Audio examples

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Audio Examples

Listen to clear demonstrations of anticlimax (bathos) with before/after examples and guided explanations.

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