ANESIS

What is it?
A figure of addition to a concluding sentence or clause

It purposely diminishes what was previously stated to add more effect

why does this work?

• It seems like a contradiction 
• A person says something
• Realizes they said more than they intent
• Then tries to retract or reduce the effect

Be careful!
If done incorrectly, it can damage a speakers reputation

“Maybe, what I really wanted was to prove I could do things right, so when I looked in the mirror I’d see someone worthwhile. But I was wrong. I see nothing.”
http://www.americanrhetoric.com/mp3clips/figures/mulananesis.mp3

He was one of the most admired men of his time, yet he had one terrible, fatal flaw.

She had set more track records than any woman in the country. She had more stamina, skill, and perserverance than many of the best, but she had broken her leg and would not be competing this year.

Mrs. Buckhold gives challenging homework, but she is always willing to help so it isn't that difficult.

Works cited

• http://www.americanrhetoric.com/figures/anesis.htm
• http://changingminds.org/techniques/language/figures_speech/anesis.htm