Alliteration
Repeat initial consonant sounds to create memorable, rhythmic phrases.
What & why
Repeated initial consonant sounds give a phrase a distinctive sound pattern that is easy to say and to hold in mind for a moment. Research suggests that this kind of sound patterning can aid short-term verbal rehearsal, the brief mental repeating of speech-based material, which may help a phrase feel more memorable as you take it in. That short-term ease is not a guarantee of lasting recall, but tying meaning to a clear sound pattern can make a phrase feel like it "sticks."
Before & after
“Our solution is good, effective, and useful.”
“Our solution is bold, brilliant, and breakthrough.”
When you’ll use it
Creating memorable product names and taglines
Crafting sticky mission statements and values
Making key points memorable in presentations
Developing brand messaging and marketing copy
Creating mnemonics for processes or frameworks
Adding polish to executive communications
Pro tip
Pick consonants that feel strong and match your message tone.
Questions & answers
How subtle should alliteration be in professional contexts?
Does alliteration work in languages other than English?
Can alliteration make serious topics seem trivial?
Learn more
Practice this concept
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