Figures of Testimony

1. Apodixis [a-po-dix'-is] Gk. "a showing forth, exposition"

Proving a statement by referring to common knowledge or general experience.

2. Martyria [mar-tir'-i-a] From Gk. marturion testimony"; Lt. Testatio

Confirming something by referring to one's own experience.

3. Paroemia [pa-ri'-mi-a] From Gk. para, "by" and oimos, "way" ("by word")

Also, Adage, Proverb, and4. Gnome [nome or no'-mee]

From Gk. gnonai to know

Apothegm [a'-po-theem] Gk. "something clearly spoken"

Several terms describing short, pithy sayings.

Figures depending on inartificial argument from authority:

5. Diatyposis [di-a-ti-po'-sis] A rhetorical term for recommending useful precepts or advice to someone else.

6. Apomnemonysis [a-pom-nem-o-ni'-sis]Quoting a recognized authority on a subject.

7. Epicrisis [e-pi-cri'-sis] From Gk. epi- upon and krisis decision, judgment; Lt. Adjudicatio

When a speaker quotes a certain passage and makes comment upon it.

8. Creia [kray'-a] Gk. "useful"

Employing an anecdote which relates a saying or deed of someone well known.

Oaths, vows, and pledges:

9. Orcos [or'-kos] Alt. of Gk. horkos, oath

Swearing that a statement is true.

10.Euche [yoo'-kay]Gk. "prayer, vow"; Lt. promissio

A vow to keep a promise.

11. Eustathia [yoos-tay'-thi-a]Gk. "stability, vigor"

Promising constancy in purpose and affection.

12.Asphalia [as-fay'-li-a]Gk. "assurance, security"

Offering oneself as a guarantee, usually for another.

Figures which prognosticate future events:

13.Euphemismus [eu-phe-mis'-mus]From Gk. euphemizein, "to speak fair"

A prognostication of good.

14.Paraenesis [pa-rain'-e-sis] Gk. parainesis exhortation, recommendation; Lt. admonitio

A warning of impending evil.

15.Ominatio [o-mi-na'-ti-o]L. foretelling, foreboding

A prophecy of evil (not necessarily of a supernatural nature).