aphorisms

As a literary device, a short sayings that observe a truth or opinion. This is a type of adage.

Aphorisms are distinguishable from idioms, colloquialisms, and proverbs because they do not need much, if any, interpretation. Although some parts of an aphorism may be figurative, on a whole an aphorism is not figurative and should be easy to understand.

Examples:

  • “The simplest questions are the hardest to answer.” — Northrop Frye
  • “With great power comes great responsibility.” — Uncle Ben from SpiderMan
  • Actions speak louder than words.

Also see adage.

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