Polysyndeton repeats conjunctions to slow the reader down and make each item stand out.
Polysyndeton repeats conjunctions to slow the reader down and make each item stand out.
A figure of addition in which conjunctions are repeated beyond ordinary economy, producing deliberate accumulation, solemnity, sequence, or emphasis.
These examples show how Polysyndeton functions in biblical language, rhetoric, poetry, prophecy, narrative, or theological imagery.
signs and seasons and days and years
Repeated conjunctions slow the creation description and make each appointed function stand out.
built the altar and laid the wood and bound Isaac and laid him and took the knife
The repeated sequence marks each solemn step in the binding of Isaac.
flesh and unleavened bread and bitter herbs
The repeated conjunctions itemize the Passover meal with deliberate fullness.
Achan and the silver and the cloak and the bar of gold...
The repeated conjunctions accumulate persons and objects under judgment.
staff and stones and shepherd’s pouch and sling
The repeated items emphasize David’s simple shepherd equipment against Goliath.
dancing and shouting and sound of the horn
The repeated and coordinated actions heighten the celebratory procession.
sea creatures and deeps ... kings and peoples
The repeated coordination gathers all creation into praise.
finery and anklets and headbands...
The repeated list accumulates symbols of pride to be stripped away in judgment.
silver, iron, tin, lead... traded goods
The commercial inventory accumulates Tyre’s wealth item by item.
rain fell and floods came and winds blew
The repeated conjunctions make each pressure on the house distinct and cumulative.
poor and crippled and blind and lame
The repeated conjunctions present each excluded class as deliberately invited.
apostles’ teaching and fellowship and breaking of bread and prayers
The coordinated list marks several continuing practices of the early church.
death nor life, angels nor rulers...
The repeated negatives and links accumulate every conceivable created threat.
power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing
The repeated conjunctions render the worship list full and majestic.
gold and silver and jewels and pearls...
The repeated commercial inventory accumulates Babylon’s luxury before judgment.
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