litotes Definition
a figure of speech that uses understatement to emphasize a point or create irony, often by negating its opposite.
Using litotes: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "litotes" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
She's not the friendliest person I know.
Example
It's not a bad idea.
Example
I'm not unhappy with the results.
litotes Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for litotes
Phrases with litotes
Example
I can't disagree with you.
a type of litotes that creates an ironic effect by negating the opposite of what is meant
Example
That's not bad for a beginner.
a type of litotes that uses understatement for rhetorical effect
Example
He's not the brightest bulb in the box.
Origins of litotes
from Greek 'litรณtes', meaning 'plainness, simplicity'
Summary: litotes in Brief
'Litotes' [lahy-toh-teez] is a figure of speech that uses understatement to emphasize a point or create irony. It is often used by negating the opposite of what is meant, as in 'She's not the friendliest person I know.' Other types of litotes include double negative litotes, ironic litotes, and rhetorical litotes.
