Figures of Speech
Diacope
Repeat a word or phrase with intervening words for emphasis.
Last updated
What it is
A rhetorical figure where a word or phrase is repeated after an intervening word or phrase, creating emphasis through separation and return, often used to highlight key concepts or create memorable statements.
Before & after
Before
“Simple repetition: "Success, success is what we're after."”
After
“Diacope structure: "Success—real success—comes from consistent daily habits."”
When you’ll use it
Keynote speeches: "Innovation—true innovation—comes from thinking differently about familiar problems"
Change announcements: "This transformation—meaningful transformation—requires commitment from everyone"
Product launches: "Quality—uncompromising quality—defines everything we create and deliver"
Team meetings: "Communication—clear communication—prevents most project failures"
Pro tip
Sandwich important words around descriptive phrases.
Questions & answers
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