Figures of Speech
Chiasmus

Reverse the order of words or ideas to create balanced, memorable phrases.

Last updated Mar 15, 2026

What & why

What it is

A rhetorical device where words or grammatical structures are repeated in reverse order (A-B-B-A pattern). This creates symmetry, emphasis, and memorable phrases that stick with audiences. Note: A common, specific type of chiasmus is Antimetabole, which repeats the exact same words in reverse order. Chiasmus is the broader term for reversing grammatical structures or ideas.

Why it works

The brain loves symmetry and pattern completion. The A-B-B-A structure creates a sense of elegant, memorable closure, forcing the listener to slow down and contemplate the relationship between the terms.

Before & after

Before

“We should work to live instead of living to work.”

After

“Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.”

When you’ll use it

Creating memorable taglines and slogans

Crafting impactful closing statements

Writing compelling book or chapter titles

Delivering keynote speech highlights

Pro tip

Find two contrasting core concepts (e.g., 'fail' and 'plan'). Structure your phrase as 'Don't [A] to [B]; instead, [B] to [A].' This creates the classic A-B-B-A pattern.