Figures of Speech

Anadiplosis

End one clause with a word that begins the next clause.

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What & why

What it is
A rhetorical device where the last word or phrase of one clause, sentence, or line is repeated at the beginning of the next, creating a chain-like connection that builds momentum and emphasis.
Why it works

Repeating the last word of one clause at the start of the next gives listeners a handrail between ideas. Because the linking word is already in working memory, each new clause arrives as a consequence of the one before it rather than a separate claim, so a sequence starts to feel logical and even inevitable. The repeated pivot also slows the line just enough to mark it as deliberate, which reads as emphasis rather than redundancy.

Before & after

Before

“We need innovation. Leadership is important. Growth matters.”

After

“Innovation drives progress. Progress creates value. Value builds success.”

When you’ll use it

Motivational speeches: "Success requires effort. Effort demands dedication. Dedication builds character."

Change management: "Change starts with leadership. Leadership requires courage. Courage drives transformation."

Problem-solving presentations: "Innovation solves problems. Problems create opportunities. Opportunities drive growth."

Training sessions: "Learning requires practice. Practice builds competence. Competence creates confidence."

Pro tip

Create a chain reaction. Each ending becomes the next beginning.

Questions & answers

What is anadiplosis in rhetoric?

Anadiplosis repeats the last word or phrase of one clause at the beginning of the next, creating chain-like connections. Examples include 'Fear leads to anger, anger leads to hate, hate leads to suffering.'

When should I use anadiplosis in presentations?

Use anadiplosis to show cause-and-effect relationships, build logical chains, or create momentum in your arguments. It's particularly effective for demonstrating processes, consequences, or when you want to show how one concept leads inevitably to another.

How does anadiplosis differ from simple repetition?

Anadiplosis creates specific structural connections between ideas, showing progression or causation. Simple repetition emphasizes the same concept, while anadiplosis links different concepts through repeated bridging words, creating logical or emotional flow.

Learn more

Silva Rhetoricae (BYU)
University of Kentucky - Glossary of Rhetorical Terms
Wikipedia - Anadiplosis

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