Study Guides/English/Repetition Figure of Speech
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Repetition: Figure of Speech Examples

In English literature, poets and writers use various 'Figures of Speech' (Poetic Devices) to make their writing beautiful and impactful. One of the simplest yet most powerful devices is Repetition.

Question (Click to Flip)

What is an example of repetition figure of speech?

Answer

A famous example of repetition is from Robert Frost's poem: 'And miles to go before I sleep, And miles to go before I sleep'. The poet repeats the line to emphasize his long, tiring journey.

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Key Facts

Definition: Repeating the same word or phrase multiple times.

Purpose: Used for emphasis, creating rhythm, or highlighting an important emotion.

Difference from Alliteration: Alliteration repeats the starting letter/sound (e.g., Big black bear). Repetition repeats the whole word or sentence.

What is Repetition?

Repetition is a literary device that involves intentionally repeating the exact same words or phrases a few times to make an idea clearer, more memorable, or to add a musical rhythm to the poem.

  • Purpose: It emphasizes a specific emotion, creates a sense of urgency, or builds a steady beat.

Famous Examples of Repetition

  1. From Robert Frost's poem 'Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening': "And miles to go before I sleep, And miles to go before I sleep." (The repetition of the entire line emphasizes the long, tiring journey the traveler still has left).

  2. From Martin Luther King Jr.'s famous speech: "I have a dream... I have a dream..." (Repeating the phrase makes the message incredibly powerful and unforgettable).

  3. Everyday Example: "Rain, rain, go away." (Nursery rhyme emphasizing the wish for the rain to stop).

Questions and Answers

What is an example of repetition figure of speech?+

A famous example of repetition is from Robert Frost's poem: 'And miles to go before I sleep, And miles to go before I sleep'. The poet repeats the line to emphasize his long, tiring journey.

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