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litotes - Meaning and Examples

Meaning of 'litotes' (Webster Dictionary)

1 . Litotes [ n.]
- A diminution or softening of statement for the sake of avoiding censure or increasing the effect by contrast with the moderation shown in the form of expression; as, " a citizen of no mean city," that is, of an illustrious city.

Meaning of 'litotes' (Princeton's WordNet)

1 . litotes [ n]
Meaning (1):
- understatement for rhetorical effect (especially when expressing an affirmative by negating its contrary)
Example in sentence:
  • saying `I was not a little upset' when you mean `I was very upset' is an example of litotes

Nearby Words:

lit litanies litany litarge litate litchi lite liter literacy literal

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