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comparison

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Definition:

A rhetorical strategy in which a writer examines similarities and/or differences between two people, places, ideas, or things. One of the basic rhetorical exercises known as the progymnasmata. See also:

Etymology:

From the Latin, "compare"

Examples and Observations:

  • To gain the most from your use of comparison and contrast, . . . you need to
    • establish a clear basis for comparison;
    • make a thorough and specific presentation; and
    • provide an effective arrangement for the material.
    (W.J. Kelly, Strategy and Structure, Allyn and Bacon, 1999)


  • "Ordering detail in a comparison-contrast essay requires some thought. One possible arrangement is the block pattern whereby all the points about one subject are made (in a block) then all the points about the other subject are made (in a second block). . . .

    "A second possible arrangement for the details of comparison-contrast is the alternating pattern, whereby a point is made for one subject, then for the other. A second point is made for the first subject, then for the other. This alternating pattern continues until all the points are made for both subjects. . . .

    "In general, the block method works better for essays with fewer points of comparison or contrast that are not extensively developed . . ..

    "An alternating pattern is usually a better choice for an essay with many points of comparison and contrast or an essay with extensively developed ideas."
    (Barbara Fine Clouse, Patterns for a Purpose, McGraw-Hill, 2003)
Pronunciation: kom-PAR-eh-son
Also Known As: comparison and contrast

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