Creative Writing Grade 11- HUMSS(A)

CHIASMUS
Jean Kenne P. Dalde
AND
Ralph Anthony Mabini
 CHIASMUS
is defined as a literary device in which words, grammatical
constructions, or concepts are repeated in reverse order. It comes
from a Greek word meaning “crossing” or “X-shaped.” In practice,
chiasmus is when you write a clause and then write a similar clause
in reverse.
CHIASMUS
is a rhetorical device used in literature,
poetry, and speeches. It is characterized by
the symmetrical arrangement of words or
phrases within a sentence or group of
sentences.
 CHIASMUS
Some additional key details about chiasmus:

Symmetry is key to chiasmus, but the repeated phrases need not be

exactly symmetrical. So, a latter phrase might be a much longer
elaboration of the preceding phrase that it echoes.
Chiasmus is related to the figure of speech antimetabole.
Chiasmus derives from the Greek for "a placing crosswise, diagonal
arrangement."
This rhetorical device can be utilized for various
purposes, such as:

•Emphasizing contrasts
•Highlighting the interrelationship of ideas
•For creating a memorable, impactful
expression
 EXAMPLES
Winston Churchill used chiasmus in his Iron Curtain speech (March 5, 1946):

Let us preach what we practise —

let us practise what we preach.

Ronald Reagan, speaking of relations between the United States and Soviet Union:

We don’t mistrust each other because we’re armed;

we’re armed because we mistrust each other.

Barack Obama, in 2006:

My job is not to represent Washington to you,

but to represent you to Washington.
THANK YOU FOR
LISTENING
JEAN KENNE P. DALDE
RALPH ANTHONY MABINI
Grade 11- HUMSS (A)