prolepsis Definition
- 1the representation or assumption of a future act or development as if presently existing or accomplished
- 2the anticipation and answering of possible objections in rhetorical speech
Using prolepsis: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "prolepsis" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The prolepsis of the company's success led to increased investment.
Example
In his speech, the politician used prolepsis to address potential criticisms.
Example
The novel's use of prolepsis created a sense of dramatic irony for the reader.
prolepsis Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for prolepsis
Phrases with prolepsis
a literary device that involves the use of flash-forwards to hint at or reveal future events in a story
Example
The author's use of prolepsis in the opening chapter foreshadowed the tragic ending of the novel.
an argument that anticipates and addresses potential objections before they are raised
Example
The lawyer's proleptic argument helped to convince the jury of his client's innocence.
a teaching method that anticipates and addresses potential misunderstandings before they occur
Example
The teacher's use of proleptic teaching helped to ensure that all students understood the material.
Origins of prolepsis
from Greek 'prolepsis', meaning 'anticipation'
Summary: prolepsis in Brief
Prolepsis [proh-lep-sis] is a noun that refers to the representation or assumption of a future act or development as if presently existing or accomplished. It can also refer to the anticipation and answering of possible objections in rhetorical speech. Examples of prolepsis include the use of flash-forwards in literature and proleptic arguments in legal cases.
