Figure Rhetorick Quote by Samuel Johnson
![“APOPHASIS (APO'PHASIS) n.s.[Lat. a denying.] A figure in rhetorick, by which the orator, speaking ironically, seems to wave what he would plainly insinuate; as, Neither will I mention those things, which if I should, you notwithstanding could neither confute or speak against them.Smith’sRhetorick.” quote by Samuel Johnson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a20/samuel-johnson-50_figure-rhetorick_apophasis-apo-phasis-n-s-lat-a-denying-a_2917435.jpg)
““APOPHASIS (APO'PHASIS) n.s.[Lat. a denying.] A figure in rhetorick, by which the orator, speaking ironically, seems to wave what he would plainly insinuate; as, Neither will I mention those things, which if I should, you notwithstanding could neither confute or speak against them.Smith’sRhetorick.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Rhetoric Treatise, 1765
Apophasis is a rhetorical device where the speaker pretends not to mention something, actually highlighting it.
In simple terms: Apophasis subtly draws attention to a point.
Key Takeaway
Use apophasis to imply without stating.
Themes
rhetoric
communication
subtlety
Mood
educational
critical
Type
literary
academic
When to use this quote
- debate
- writing
- public speaking
- media analysis
Key Concepts
logic
irony
Questions to Reflect On
- When is apophasis effective?
- What risks does it carry?
A Different Perspective
Overuse can seem manipulative.
