What is Diction? — Types of Diction

Table of Contents

Definition

Diction refers to the choice or selection of particular words for the expression of a particular tone or mode. It is a tool through which one can tailor his/her expressions to fit them in a particular context. One's diction is basically determined by one's level of vocabulary. Richer the vocabulary, powerful will be the diction.

Types of Diction

Based on the context, setting, speaker, audience, complexity, simplicity, and many other factors, diction is classified into different types. Below are the major types of diction:

1. Formal Diction

It refers to the use of a polished or refined language. Such type of diction follows grammatical rules, and uses a polite and professional tone. It also avoids the use of contractions, personal pronouns, and simple everyday vocabulary. Formal diction is most commonly used in academic writings, and in other such situations, where a level of formality is required.

Examples:

"His erudition and eloquence captivated the audience."

"May I kindly ask for your assistance in creating my resume?"

2. Informal Diction

It is the opposite of formal diction. It uses a casual, relaxed, and everyday language. It also uses simple vocabulary, contractions, and personal pronouns. Informal diction is commonly used in everyday interactions with friends and family, and in other casual situations.

Examples:

"I'm gonna grab a coffee. Do you want one?"

"Hey, let's go for a walk."

3. Colloquial Diction

It is a type of informal diction. It uses words, phrases, and idioms that may be only used and understand within a particular region or community, and may be foreign to the rest of the world. It is the part of everyday communication.

Examples:

Ain't, Y'all, Kinda, Cuz, Gimme, Dunno, Wanna, Gonna, Folks, and Kids are some of the most famous English Colloquial words used in different English-speaking regions.

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4. Slang

It is a sub-type of colloquial diction. It is used in a specific sub-culture or sub-group. Unlike colloquial diction, slang consists of words and expressions that are short-lived, i.e. they constantly evolve over time. Slang is also more informal than colloquial diction. It is most commonly used by teenagers of a particular social group.

Examples:

Lit, Gig, Dope, and FOMO are the examples of slang.

5. Pedantic Diction

It is a type of formal diction, which is overly concerned with precision and grammar. Pedantic speakers or writers sometimes appear to be overly scholarly, because they focus on every minute detail. Pedantic diction is commonly used in advanced academic settings. It is sometimes also used in literature to show a character highly sophisticated and intelligent, such as "Gatsby" in The Great Gatsby.

Examples:

A pedantic speaker might say: "I am experiencing a euphoric state of fervor and zeal," instead of "I'm excited."

"Similarly, a pedantic writer or speaker may write or say: "Elementary in nature," instead of "Simple."

6. Pedestrian Diction

It is the opposite of pedantic diction. Unlike pedantic diction, pedestrian diction uses simple everyday language, which lacks creativity and originality. It is a kind of clichéd and uninteresting language, which does not capture the readers or listeners' attention. Pedestrian diction is commonly used in everyday communication, casual writing, and other informal settings.

Examples:

"The weather is quite nice today, what about a walk in the park?"

"I met him at the usual spot for our regular meet up."

7. Poetic Diction:

It refers to the use of figurative, imaginative, and elevated language. This type of diction is used in poetry to evoke emotions and imagination. Poetic diction uses various poetic devices, such as metaphors and similes etc.

Examples:

"Stars glitter like diamonds in the mid night's sky."

"Footprints on sand, memories written in the grains of time."

8. Jargon

It consists of specialized terms and expressions that are used only within a particular profession or field. These terminologies serve as a shorthand way of communication among the individuals related to that particular profession or field.

Examples:

"Bull Market" (a market characterized by rising prices) is an example of Finance Jargon.

"Rubrics" (a scoring or grading tool) is an example of Education Jargon.

See Also

Ethos, Pathos, and Logos — The Rhetorical Triangle

9. Abstract Diction

It involves the use of words that represent intangible or imperceptible things, such as ideas, concepts, and emotions. These words appeal to the readers' emotions or imagination, instead of appealing to their senses. This type of diction is also ambiguous, because it can be interpreted in multiple ways. Abstract diction is commonly used in expressive, poetic, and philosophical types of writings.

Examples:

Love, honesty, happiness, hate, and wisdom etc.

"She received a heartfelt gesture of love from him."

10. Concrete Diction

It is the opposite of abstract diction. It involves the use of words that represent tangible and observable things. Or, it refers to the use of words, which can be perceived through five senses, such as objects, people, fragrance, and actions etc. Such type of diction is clear and precise, and free from any kind of ambiguity. Concrete diction is commonly used in descriptive writing and in everyday communication.

Examples:

Rose, tree, car, sun, apple, laughter, and fragrance etc.

"Her room smelled of of red roses."