Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
litotes
Noun
/ˈlaɪtəˌtiːz/
Definition
A figure of speech that uses understatement to express an affirmative by negating its opposite.
Examples
- “Not bad” to mean “good” is a common example of litotes.
- “She’s not the worst dancer” suggests she is quite a good dancer.
Meaning
Litotes is a literary device employed to make a statement by denying the contrary, often used for emphasis or ironic effect.
Synonyms
- Understatement
- Negation
- Mitigation
