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Affected style

Device
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

Deliberately artificial or stylized language used for artistic effect

Detailed Definition
Affected style describes poetic diction or syntax that appears artificially ornate, exaggerated, or emotionally insincere, often marked by archaic language, overwrought metaphors, or forced sentimentality; while sometimes used ironically or for satirical effect, it is generally criticized for lacking authenticity, as when a poet adopts lofty expressions that feel disconnected from genuine emotion or lived experience.
Example
Example in poetry:
“O thou celestial nectar of my soul’s desire!” (overly ornate diction); “Verily, mine heart doth quake with rapturous agony!” (archaic and exaggerated); “Behold! The azure firmament doth weep diamonds of despair!” (melodramatic imagery); “Alas, poor wretch that I am, ensnared in love’s gilded cage!” (theatrical self-pity)
Additional Notes
Affected style describes deliberately artificial or exaggerated diction and syntax—often used pejoratively but can be strategic in satire or parody to critique poetic conventions.
Also Known As
Ornate diction mannered style stylized expression affected rhetoric affected diction pretentious style
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