Which term describes two lines of verse that form a unit in poetry?

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!

The correct answer, which signifies two lines of verse that come together to create a cohesive unit in poetry, is "couplet." A couplet is specifically defined as a pair of lines, often sharing the same meter and rhyme scheme, thus creating a unified thought or idea within those two lines. Couplets can serve various functions in poetry, such as providing a punchline, encapsulating a theme, or enhancing the musical quality of the poem through their rhythmic and rhymed structure.

In contrast, a stanza refers to a larger grouping of lines in a poem that can consist of any number of lines, while a quatrain is a specific type of stanza that contains four lines. "Verse" is a more general term that can refer to a single line of poetry or any section of poetry overall, but it does not specifically denote a two-line structure. This highlights why "couplet" is the most accurate term for describing two lines of verse that function as a unit.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy