Advanced Placement (AP) English Language and Composition Practice Exam

Which device involves the repetition of similar vowel sounds in nearby words?

1. Alliteration

2. Assonance

3. Chiasmus

4. Polyptoton

The correct answer is: Assonance

The device that involves the repetition of similar vowel sounds in nearby words is assonance. This literary technique focuses specifically on the sound qualities of the vowels used, creating a musical effect in poetry or prose. For instance, in a phrase like "The early bird catches the worm," the repetition of the "e" sound can be noted, contributing to the overall rhythm and aesthetic of the text. The other options represent different rhetorical or literary devices. Alliteration is characterized by the repetition of initial consonant sounds in closely placed words, which has a different focus than assonance. Chiasmus involves a reversal in the structure of phrases or clauses, creating a mirror-like effect that does not pertain to vowel sounds specifically. Polyptoton refers to the repetition of a word in different forms, emphasizing variations in meaning rather than vowel sounds. Overall, assonance is distinct in its emphasis on vowel repetition, enhancing the auditory quality of language through similar sound patterns.