What is the term for the omission of conjunctions from a sentence?

Study for AP English Literature and Composition. Enhance your understanding with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question providing hints and explanations. Prepare effectively for your exam!

Asyndeton is the term used to describe the deliberate omission of conjunctions from a series of related clauses. This rhetorical device creates a rapid or dramatic effect in the sentence, often leading the reader to process ideas or actions more quickly. By eliminating conjunctions, the structure of the sentence becomes more succinct and impactful, allowing for a more powerful delivery of ideas or events.

For instance, in the phrase "I came, I saw, I conquered," the absence of the conjunction "and" creates a sense of urgency and decisiveness that amplifies the speaker's triumph. This technique is often employed in literature to convey strong emotions or to build momentum in a narrative.

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