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Figures of Speech - Rhetorical Devices: Application in Business Communication

Figures of Speech: Rhetorical Devices

Figures of speech are rhetorical devices used to convey meanings in a more imaginative or emphatic way than literal language. They enhance the expressiveness and impact of communication by creating vivid imagery, emphasizing certain aspects, or eliciting emotions. Figures of speech often involve the use of language creatively to achieve specific effects.

Figures of Speech: Application in Business Communication

 

Description

Example

Application in Business Communication

Metaphors

Directly compares one thing to another by stating that one is the other, highlighting similarities between the two.

Time is a thief

Used to create vivid imagery and convey complex ideas more simply, Metaphors can make messages more relatable and impactful. E.g., referring to a challenging project as a "marathon" can convey the endurance and persistence required.

Similes

Compares two different things using the words "like" or "as."

Her smile was as bright as the sun.

Useful for making descriptions more vivid and engaging, similes can help clarify ideas and create an engaging narrative. E.g., "Our new software is like a Swiss army knife for your business" suggests versatility and usefulness.

Anaphora

Involves the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences.

We will win. We will succeed. We will overcome."

Used to emphasize a point and make the message more memorable. Anaphora can create a rhythmic and persuasive effect. For example,  "We need innovation. We need dedication. We need collaboration." reinforces key points and motivates the audience.

Dr. Karminder Ghuman, Head of MBA Department, LM Thapar School of Management,          Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology (Deemed to be University), Patiala

This blog is based on contents from the book: "The Art and Science of Effective and Impactful Business Communication for Managers" 

https://rb.gy/t1fnup

This book has a compilation of research-based proven tools and strategies to guide professionals regarding the following aspects of business, corporate, and managerial communication:

Employability Skills and Communication

  • Cover Letter and Resume Writing
  • Group Discussion (GD)
  • Personal Interview

Writing Skills

  • Business Writing Strategy
  • E-mail Etiquettes
  • Letter writing
  • Agenda and Minutes of Meeting
  • Office Memo, Notice, and Circular Writing
  • Business Report Writing
  • Writing a Compelling Press Release
  • Business Proposal Writing 

Organizational Communication

  • Bureaucratic Communication
  • Satisfying Customer Care
  • Intercultural Communication
  • Leveraging Grapevine Communication
  • Dealing with Ego, Power, and Organizational Politics
  • Dealing with Aggression or Negative Emotions of a Senior at Workplace
  • Communication Dilemmas at Workplace
  • Communicating in Diverse and Hybrid Organizational Environment

Managerial Communication

  • Making and Delivering an Impactful Presentation
  • Probing and Confrontation Skills
  • Problem Solving: Creativity and Innovation – Role of Communication
  • Selling Skills
  • Effective Meetings
  • Conveying a Difficult Message
  • Negotiation Skills
  • Team Building, Group Communication and Inspiring Collaboration
  • Providing Feedback and Criticism
  • Conflict Management
  • Personality Type of Leaders/Managers and Communication Style
  • Communication Strategy and Decision-making Heuristics

Networking

  • Networking
  • Greetings, Introducing, and Rapport Building

Technology and Communication

  • Technology and Communication
  • Generative AI and Communication
  • Social Media Communication

Leadership Communication

  • Leadership Style and Communication
  • Communication Strategies for Corporate Leaders
  • Public Speaking
  • Persuasive, Confident and Decisive Communication
  • Increasing Productivity

Entrepreneurial Communication

  • Story Telling
  • Startup Pitching
  • Persuasive Techniques: The Language of Persuasion
  • Visual Content Creation: Blogs, Vlogs, Reels, Videos, Webinars, Tags, and Hashtags
  • Content Writing and Career Opportunities

Monitoring and Measuring: Effectiveness of Communication

  • Communication Audit: Monitoring and Measuring Effectiveness of Communication

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