Anaphora
noun /əˈnæf.ər.ə/ — The repetition of a phrase at the start of successive clauses
Definition
The repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses, sentences, or verses — creating rhythm, emphasis, and cumulative power.
Beyond the definition
The heartbeat of a speech. Anaphora builds with each repetition — each returning phrase heavier than the last.
Origin & history
From Greek 'anaphora' (a carrying back) — 'ana' (back, again) + 'phora' (carrying). The carrying back of the phrase to the beginning of each new clause.
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
'I have a dream that... I have a dream that...' King's use of anaphora is among the most powerful in modern oratory.
She structured her argument with anaphora — each 'Because...' built inexorably toward her conclusion.
Anaphora turns repetition into momentum. It is not redundancy — it is gathering weight.
How to use it
This entry uses a noun. Follow the examples for articles and singular or plural forms; not every noun takes “a” or “an.”
Choose “Anaphora” when the meaning fits your context: The repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses, sentences, or verses — creating rhythm, emphasis, and cumulative power.
Synonyms
repetition, restatement, epiphora, epistrophe
Related words
- rhetoric
- chiasmus
- alliteration
- rhetoric-persuasion
Questions about this word
What does "Anaphora" mean?
Anaphora is noun meaning: The repetition of a phrase at the start of successive clauses. The repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses, sentences, or verses — creating rhythm, emphasis, and cumulative power.
Where does the word "Anaphora" come from?
From Greek 'anaphora' (a carrying back) — 'ana' (back, again) + 'phora' (carrying). The carrying back of the phrase to the beginning of each new clause.