1. Word Order:
* Fronting: Moving a phrase or word that typically appears later in the sentence to the beginning for emphasis.
* Example: "Never have I seen such beauty." (Emphasis on "Never")
* Inversion: Reversing the typical subject-verb order.
* Example: "On the table lay the book." (Emphasis on "On the table")
* Cleft sentences: Dividing a sentence into two parts to highlight a specific element.
* Example: "It was John who broke the window." (Emphasis on "John")
2. Intonation:
* Raising or lowering pitch: Emphasizing a word by speaking it higher or lower than the rest of the sentence.
* Pausing: Adding a pause before or after a word for emphasis.
3. Stress:
* Adding extra force or emphasis: Speaking a word with greater force or volume.
4. Repetition:
* Repeating a word or phrase: Reinforces its importance and impact.
* Example: "No, no, no! I won't do it."
5. Punctuation:
* Using commas, dashes, or parentheses: Can set off an emphasized phrase or word.
* Using exclamation points: Can indicate strong emotions or urgency.
6. Other Techniques:
* Using strong adjectives or adverbs: Can add intensity and highlight the importance of a word or phrase.
* Using figurative language: Metaphors, similes, and other literary devices can create emphasis.
Why use sentence emphasis?
* To clarify meaning: Emphasize the most important element in a sentence.
* To express emotion: Highlight a word or phrase that carries strong feelings.
* To create emphasis: Draw attention to a particular point.
* To persuade: Use emphasis to make a point more convincing.
* To engage the reader: Keep the reader interested by using varied sentence structures and emphasizing key information.
Understanding sentence emphasis can help you write and speak more effectively and persuasively.