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Abstract diction

Concept
Pronunciation

Understanding ARPABET Pronunciation

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The pronunciation guide uses the ARPABET phonetic system—the same system used in speech recognition and text-to-speech applications.

Vowel Examples:
AE1 = cat, bat
EH1 = bed, head
IY1 = see, me
OW1 = go, boat
UW1 = boot, do
Stress Numbers:
0 = no stress (unstressed)
1 = primary stress (loud)
2 = secondary stress (medium)
Example:
AH0 TH IY1 N AH0
= a-THEE-na (Athena)

The stressed syllable (marked with 1) is pronounced louder and clearer than others.

Quick Definition

Language using words that denote intangible ideas, emotions, or qualities rather than physical, sensory objects or actions.

Explore this topic in depth (1)

Imagery in Poetry — Imagery is the sensory language that helps a poem be felt as well as understood. This guide explains how to recognise different kinds of imagery and explore what they do without rushing past the words into interpretation.

Detailed Definition
Abstract diction involves the use of non-concrete, conceptual language—such as “justice,” “eternity,” or “despair”—that refers to ideas rather than sensory experiences; while useful for philosophical reflection, excessive abstraction can weaken poetic immediacy, prompting poets to balance it with concrete imagery for emotional impact.
Example
Example in poetry:
Abstract diction: "Hope is the thing with feathers / That perches in the soul" (Emily Dickinson) — uses intangible concepts like "hope" and "soul" rather than concrete images.
Additional Notes
Uses conceptual, non-sensory language ("justice," "truth"). Contrast with concrete diction ("stone," "crimson"). Neither superior—choose based on purpose. Balance both for richness.
Also Known As
Conceptual language Abstract language Theoretical diction Non-concrete vocabulary
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