Etymology of Epiphora
The term “epiphora” is derived from the Greek word “epiphorē,” which means “overflow” or “excess.”
In rhetoric and linguistics, epiphora refers to a figure of speech in which one or more words are repeated at the end of successive clauses or sentences.
It is also known as epistrophe, which has the same root word “strophe” (turn or twist). Epiphora is a rhetorical device that serves to emphasize, reinforce, or draw attention to a particular idea or emotion. This technique has been used in various forms of literature, speeches, and poetry to create a rhythmic and memorable effect, making it an important aspect of classical and contemporary rhetoric.
Meanings of Epiphora
| Aspect | Meaning |
| Rhetorical Device | Repetition at the end of clauses or sentences in rhetoric to emphasize and create impact. |
| Medical Condition | Excessive tearing of the eyes due to factors like blocked tear ducts or allergies. |
| Literary Term | Repetition of words or phrases at the end of lines in literature for poetic or rhetorical effect. |
| Botany and Zoology | Presence of a single, apical growth point on structures like leaves or stems in botany and zoology. |
| Historical Significance | Used to refer to specific historical writing or thought styles. |
Definition of Epiphora
Epiphora, a literary device, is characterized by the deliberate repetition of one or more words or phrases at the end of successive clauses, sentences, or lines of a text. This repetition serves to create emphasis, rhythm, and impact within the narrative or discourse.
Epiphora is a rhetorical tool employed by writers to reinforce a point, underscore a theme, or engage the reader’s attention through its rhythmic and persuasive qualities.
Types of Epiphoras
| Type | Explanation | Examples |
| Word Epiphora | A single word or phrase is repeated at the end of successive clauses or sentences to emphasize that specific word. | “I came, I saw, I conquered.” – Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare |
| Sentence Epiphora | Entire sentences or clauses are repeated at the end of successive passages, creating a strong, rhythmic pattern. | “They marched in perfect unison. They marched with determination.” |
| Emphatic Epiphora | Repetition is used for emphasis and to make a point more forcefully, commonly in persuasive or impassioned writing. | “We will fight for justice. We will fight for freedom.” |
| Emotional Epiphora | Repetition is employed to evoke a specific emotional response from the reader, heightening the text’s emotional impact. | “Love, love beyond measure. Love that knows no bounds.” |
| Narrative Epiphora | Used in narrative writing to create continuity or anticipation as events unfold, adding a narrative rhythm. | “The night grew darker. The wind howled louder. The suspense was unbearable.” |
| Poetic Epiphora | In poetry, repetition at the end of lines or stanzas creates a musical or lyrical quality, enhancing the poem’s impact. | “Nevermore” – Repeated at the end of each stanza in Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Raven.” |
| Rhetorical Epiphora | Often used in persuasive speeches or essays to reinforce a message and make it more memorable to the audience. | “We will not tire. We will not falter. We will not fail.” – George W. Bush, 2001 inaugural address. |
Common Examples of Epiphoras
- Balancing Priorities: “I have classes to attend, assignments to complete, and exams to study for. It’s a juggling act.”
- Extracurricular Commitments: “I’m in the school band, on the soccer team, and a member of the debate club. It keeps me busy.”
- Time Management: “Lectures to attend, readings to finish, and projects to work on. It’s all about effective time management.”
- Social Life: “Friends to hang out with, parties to attend, and relationships to nurture. Social life is an important aspect.”
- Healthy Lifestyle: “Eating right, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. It’s all about maintaining a healthy lifestyle.”
- Career Goals: “Internships to secure, skills to develop, and a bright future to build. Career goals require dedication.”
- Financial Responsibility: “Bills to pay, savings to grow, and budgets to manage. Financial responsibility is a life skill.”
- Technology Use: “Social media to check, emails to respond to, and online research to conduct. Technology is part of daily life.”
- Hobby Pursuits: “Painting to practice, music to play, and books to read. Hobbies provide creative outlets.”
- Self-Care Routine: “Meditation to practice, relaxation techniques to master, and personal growth to focus on. Self-care is essential for well-being.”
Suggested Readings
- Abrams, M. H. A Glossary of Literary Terms. Cengage Learning, 2014.
- Corbett, Edward P. J., and Robert J. Connors. Classical Rhetoric for the Modern Student. Oxford University Press, 1998.
- Lanham, Richard A. A Handlist of Rhetorical Terms. University of California Press, 1991.
- Miller, George A. The Science of Words. Scientific American Library, 1991.
- Preminger, Alex, and T. V. F. Brogan. The New Princeton Encyclopedia of Poetry and Poetics. Princeton University Press, 1993.