Figures of Speech
Polyptoton
Use different forms of the same root word for emphasis.
What it is
Before & after
“Simple repetition: "We need to work hard, work smart, and work together."”
“Polyptoton variation: "Hard work requires working harder and workers who work hardest."”
When you’ll use it
Performance reviews: "Your performance has performed well, but underperformance in key areas needs improvement"
Sales presentations: "To succeed in sales, successful sellers must sell with success-oriented strategies"
Training sessions: "Effective leaders lead effectively by learning to lead with leadership principles"
Strategic planning: "Strategic thinking requires strategists to strategize strategically for strategic outcomes"
Pro tip
Play with verb, noun, adjective, and adverb forms of your key word.
Questions & answers
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