Anaphora vs. Epistrophe — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 7, 2024
Anaphora repeats the initial word or phrase of successive clauses, emphasizing the starting point, while epistrophe focuses on repetition at the end of each clause, emphasizing conclusions.
Difference Between Anaphora and Epistrophe
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Anaphora emphasizes the beginning of successive sentences or phrases by repeating a specific word or phrase. This creates rhythm and reinforces the idea stated at the beginning. Epistrophe, on the other hand, repeats the word or phrase at the end of successive sentences, focusing on conclusions and creating a strong closing impact.
In persuasive writing, anaphora is used to introduce key ideas repeatedly, helping them resonate through multiple clauses. Conversely, epistrophe closes arguments with impactful repetitions that linger with the audience.
Both techniques draw attention to particular elements within text structures. Anaphora aids in rhythm and emphasis right from the start, whereas epistrophe provides a memorable conclusion that echoes throughout the writing.
Anaphora is prevalent in speeches where the speaker wants to instill a shared sense of purpose by repeating the starting phrase. Meanwhile, epistrophe is common in rallying cries or calls to action where closing repetition reinforces the message powerfully.
Comparison Chart
Position
Repeats words/phrases at the beginning
Repeats words/phrases at the end
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Function
Emphasizes starting point
Emphasizes closing point
Example
"We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight..."
"... of the people, by the people, for the people."
Effect
Creates rhythm from the outset
Leaves a memorable ending
Common Usage
Persuasive speeches and writing
Calls to action, rallying cries
Compare with Definitions
Anaphora
Repetition to create emphasis or rhythm.
I want to win. I want to grow. I want to succeed.
Epistrophe
Repeats words/phrases at the end of successive sentences.
Face the challenges today, overcome them today, succeed today.
Anaphora
Can be used to express passion or urgency in speeches.
It takes a village. It takes effort. It takes courage.
Epistrophe
Emphasizes conclusions for a strong finish.
In their name, for their sake, by their side.
Anaphora
Appeals to shared values by using a collective pronoun.
We will achieve. We will overcome. We will succeed.
Epistrophe
Used for emphasis in rallying cries or closing arguments.
Of the people, by the people, for the people.
Anaphora
The repetition of a word/phrase at the start of successive sentences.
Every day, every night, in every way, I am improving.
Epistrophe
Stresses the impact of the final statement.
Victory will come if we try, strive, and believe.
Anaphora
Creates a shared sense of purpose by beginning consistently.
With dedication, with integrity, with unity.
Epistrophe
Leaves the audience with a clear and repetitive message.
We will fight for our freedom, secure our freedom, cherish our freedom.
Anaphora
The deliberate repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of several successive verses, clauses, or paragraphs; for example, "We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets, we shall fight in the hills" (Winston S. Churchill).
Epistrophe
Epistrophe (Greek: ἐπιστροφή, "return") is the repetition of the same word or words at the end of successive phrases, clauses or sentences. It is also known as epiphora and occasionally as antistrophe.
Anaphora
(Linguistics) The use of a linguistic unit, such as a pronoun, to refer to the same person or object as another unit, usually a noun. The use of her to refer to the person named by Anne in the sentence Anne asked Edward to pass her the salt is an example of anaphora.
Epistrophe
The deliberate repetition of a word or phrase at the end of several successive verses, clauses, or paragraphs, as "government of the people, by the people, for the people" (Abraham Lincoln).
Anaphora
(rhetoric) The repetition of a phrase at the beginning of phrases, sentences, or verses, used for emphasis.
They didn't speak. They didn't stand. They didn't even look up when I came in.
Epistrophe
(rhetoric) The repetition of the same word or words at the end of successive phrases, clauses or sentences.
Anaphora
(linguistics) An expression that can refer to virtually any referent, the specific referent being defined by context.
Epistrophe
A figure in which successive clauses end with the same word or affirmation; e. g., "Are they Hebrews? so am I. Are they Israelites? so am I."
Anaphora
(linguistics) An expression that refers to a preceding expression.
Epistrophe
Repetition of the ends of two or more successive sentences, verses, etc.
Anaphora
(Christianity) The most solemn part of the Divine Liturgy or the Mass during which the offerings of bread and wine are consecrated as body and blood of Christ
Anaphora
Plural of anaphor
Anaphora
A repetition of a word or of words at the beginning of two or more successive clauses.
Anaphora
The use of a substitute word, such as a pronoun, in reference to a something already mentioned in a discourse; also, the relation between the substitute word and its antecedent. It is contrasted with cataphora, the use of a pronoun for a word or topic not yet mentioned.
Anaphora
Using a pronoun or other pro-word instead of repeating a word
Anaphora
Repetition of a word or phrase as the beginning of successive clauses
Common Curiosities
How does epistrophe affect a message?
Epistrophe reinforces the final message in each sentence or clause, creating a strong, memorable impression.
What is anaphora?
Anaphora is a rhetorical device repeating the same word or phrase at the beginning of consecutive clauses or sentences.
How does anaphora enhance writing?
Anaphora adds rhythm and emphasis by repeating a key word or phrase at the start, giving weight to the repeated idea.
Is anaphora suitable for poetry?
Yes, it enhances the rhythm and meaning in poetry by repeating key phrases.
What is epistrophe?
Epistrophe is a rhetorical device where the repetition of words or phrases happens at the end of successive sentences or clauses.
Can anaphora and epistrophe be used together?
Yes, this combination is called "symploce," using both devices in tandem to enhance rhythm and emphasis.
Is anaphora suitable for persuasive writing?
Yes, it's common in speeches to instill a shared purpose or passion from the start of each sentence.
Is epistrophe helpful in storytelling?
Yes, it's effective for emphasizing conclusions or lessons that resonate with readers or listeners.
What is a famous example of anaphora in speeches?
Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech uses anaphora effectively with the phrase "I have a dream."
How do anaphora and epistrophe differ from alliteration?
Anaphora and epistrophe emphasize whole words or phrases, while alliteration focuses on repeating initial consonant sounds.
What is a notable instance of epistrophe in literature?
Abraham Lincoln's "Gettysburg Address" ends with "of the people, by the people, for the people."
How does anaphora contribute to speeches?
Anaphora sets a tone, rhythm, and shared idea that aligns audiences with the speaker's intent.
Can epistrophe create urgency in a message?
Yes, repeating the same closing words urges the audience to take immediate action.
Can epistrophe be overused?
Excessive repetition can dilute the effect, so it's best used sparingly for impactful emphasis.
Are anaphora and epistrophe types of repetition?
Yes, both are forms of repetition aimed at enhancing a message's clarity and impact.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
