polysyndeton Definition
the use of several conjunctions in close succession, especially where some might be omitted (as in 'he ran and jumped and laughed for joy').
Using polysyndeton: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "polysyndeton" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
I ate pizza and pasta and salad and bread and dessert.
Example
She was beautiful and smart and kind and funny and talented.
polysyndeton Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for polysyndeton
- repetition of conjunctions
- excessive conjunctions
Phrases with polysyndeton
the omission or absence of a conjunction between parts of a sentence
Example
I came, I saw, I conquered.
the repetition of a word at the end of successive clauses or sentences
Example
When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child.
the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences
Example
We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets.
Origins of polysyndeton
from Greek 'poly-' meaning 'many' and 'syndeton' meaning 'bound together'
Summary: polysyndeton in Brief
Polysyndeton [pol-ee-sin-di-tn] is a literary device that involves using multiple conjunctions in quick succession, often to create a sense of abundance or emphasis. It is commonly used in literature and speeches to build momentum and convey a sense of urgency or importance. Examples include 'I ate pizza and pasta and salad and bread and dessert.' and 'She was beautiful and smart and kind and funny and talented.' Polysyndeton is often contrasted with asyndeton, which involves omitting conjunctions, and other literary devices like epistrophe and anaphora.
