allusion
a
ə
ē
llu
ˈlu
loo
sion
ʒən
zhēn
British pronunciation
/ɐlˈuːʒən/

Definition & Meaning of "allusion"in English

Allusion
01

a statement that implies or indirectly mentions something or someone else, especially as a literary device

Wiki

What is an "allusion"?

An allusion is a literary device where a reference is made to a person, place, event, or work of literature that is not explicitly mentioned but is expected to be recognized by the reader. This reference is used to add meaning or context to the text by drawing on the reader's knowledge of the alluded-to subject. For example, if a character is described as "fighting a losing battle against overwhelming odds", it alludes to the historical event of the Battle of Thermopylae, where a small group of Greek warriors faced a much larger Persian army. This allusion helps convey that the character is facing a seemingly insurmountable challenge. Allusions enrich the text by connecting it to broader cultural or historical references.

example
Examples
Her comment about " meeting her Waterloo " was an allusion to Napoleon's final defeat, implying she faced an insurmountable challenge.
The novel 's title, " Brave New World, " is an allusion to Shakespeare's " The Tempest, " suggesting themes of exploration and discovery.
LanGeek
Download LanGeek app
langeek application

Download Mobile App

stars

app store