LessonsThe Elevation of Discourse, Rhetorical Excellence and Degrees of BalaghaQuiz

An utterance conveys a basic propositional content and may also provide an additional rhetorical implication through its choice of construction.

“Zayd came” states a coming; “It was Zayd who came” adds a specification or exclusiveness that is not automatically suitable in every situation. Whether that additional implication serves the intended occasion is a distinct question.

The example shows why an analysis of balagha must consider both what is said and how the wording's special features serve the context.

Opening interactive controls...

Basic signification and rhetorical addition

The Elevation of Discourse, Rhetorical Excellence and Degrees of Balagha

An utterance conveys a basic propositional content and may also provide an additional rhetorical implication through its choice of construction.

“Zayd came” states a coming; “It was Zayd who came” adds a specification or exclusiveness that is not automatically suitable in every situation. Whether that additional implication serves the intended occasion is a distinct question.

The example shows why an analysis of balagha must consider both what is said and how the wording's special features serve the context.