Tricolon is a literary device we can use to add emphasis and power to our speech and writing. It’s when we use three similar-length sentences or phrases in a row.
For example, if we’ve been talking about our new travel plans and want to summarize the important details, we might say something like this:
“We’re going to Paris, Rome, and Barcelona. We’ll be staying in luxury hotels, eating at the best restaurants. And experiencing the local culture firsthand.”
What Is Tricolon?
Tricolon is a literary device we can use to add emphasis and power to our speech and writing.
Tricolon occurs when you use three similar-length sentences or phrases in a row.
For example:
“I am going to the mall tonight. I’ll meet you there at 6pm. Be sure to wear shoes that aren’t too tight on your feet so they don’t hurt after walking around for hours searching for the perfect pair of shoes you want but don’t need because they are already right there waiting for you in that one store across from where we ate lunch earlier today during spring break vacation week! See ya soon!”
The structure of tricolon is as follows: Our main idea is stated in sentence 1; this is followed by two supporting ideas (sentences 2 and 3).
This structure gives us time to set up our main point before presenting it with full force at its conclusion (in sentence 4).
A tricolon, also known as a triadic sentence, is a rhetorical device that employs three parallel elements, typically in the form of three words, phrases, or clauses.
This literary technique is often used to add emphasis, create a sense of balance, and heighten the overall impact of the sentence.
One of the most famous examples of a tricolon can be found in the Gettysburg Address, delivered by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863:
“We cannot dedicate, we cannot consecrate, we cannot hallow this ground.”
In this instance, the repetition of the word “cannot” serves to emphasize the gravity and solemnity of the occasion.
Tricolons can also be used to create a sense of rhythm and flow in a piece of writing. Consider the following example from Ernest Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea:
“He was an old man who fished alone in a skiff in the Gulf Stream and he had gone eighty-four days now without taking a fish.”
The repetition of the numbers “eighty-four” and “now” creates a steady, rhythmic pulse that draws the reader in and keeps them engaged.
In addition to their use in literature, tricolons can also be found in everyday speech.
For example, a coach might motivate their team by saying, “We will not quit, we will not give up, we will not lose!”
The repetition of the word “not” in this sentence adds emphasis and determination to the coach’s words.
Overall, the tricolon is a powerful rhetorical device that can add depth, emphasis, and rhythm to any piece of writing or speech.
Its ability to create parallel elements and add emphasis makes it a valuable tool for writers and speakers alike.
Tricolon is a literary device in which we use three similar-length sentences or phrases in a row.
It can be used to create emphasis, but it’s not always necessary to do so — it’s just something that can be done!
Tricolons are often found in the beginning of speeches, where they’re used to set up what the speaker will say next. For example:
Examples of Tricolon In Use
Tricolon is a literary device that uses three similar-length sentences or phrases in a row.
For example, if we’ve been talking about our new travel plans and want to summarize the important details, we might say something like this:
“We’re going on a trip! We’ll be visiting several cities across Europe and staying at nice hotels.”
Because each sentence ends with an exclamation mark, it takes on a strong tone of excitement and enthusiasm for what’s coming up next.
A tricolon is a type of literary device that you can use to add emphasis and power to your speech and writing. It’s when you use three similar-length sentences or phrases in a row.
For example, if we’ve been talking about our new travel plans and want to summarize the important details:
- We are going on vacation!
- We are visiting Paris (and its museums!)
- We will stay at Le Royal Monceau Raffles Paris Hotel
Tricolon is a literary device that uses three conjunctions in a row. We use it all the time, and you probably don’t realize it because it’s so natural and commonplace.
For example:
“I’ve always loved dogs and cats.”
or
“The ball is red, round, and small.”
Tricolon – Wrapping Up
So, let’s recap. Tricolon is a literary device we can use to add power to our speech and writing. It’s when we use three similar-length sentences or phrases in a row.