Epistrophe
End successive clauses with the same word or phrase.
What & why
Epistrophe puts the weight on the ending, the position that tends to land with the most emphasis, and the repeated phrase gets reinforced through repeated exposure, which can make it easier to recall. Once the pattern establishes itself, listeners anticipate and mentally complete each clause, creating a participatory feel. Each repetition tends to build emotional intensity, so the final instance carries the cumulative weight of all that came before.
Before & after
“Government should serve citizens, companies should support workers, and leaders should guide their teams.”
“When customers struggle, we deliver. When partners need us, we deliver. No matter what, we deliver.”
When you’ll use it
Rally closing speeches where each point ends with the company mission or values
Benefits presentations where each advantage concludes with the same compelling outcome
Values statements where each principle ends with the core organizational commitment
Pro tip
End each point with your key message. It becomes unforgettable.
Questions & answers
What is epistrophe in speaking?
How can I use epistrophe in business presentations?
What's the difference between epistrophe and anaphora?
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