Tricolon: meaning, definitions and examples

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tricolon

[ˈtraɪkəlɒn ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

rhetoric

A rhetorical device that involves the repetition of words, phrases, or clauses in threes for emphasis and impact. It is often used to make a point more memorable and persuasive.

Synonyms

triad, trio, triple.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tricolon	Often used in rhetorical contexts to describe a series of three parallel elements, commonly found in speeches and literature to create rhythm and emphasis. In his speech, the politician used a tricolon to emphasize his key points: 'Government of the people, by the people, for the people.' The writer's use of a tricolon added a poetic touch: 'She came, she saw, she conquered.'
triple	Often used in mathematical, sports, or culinary contexts to describe three times as much or three combined elements. He scored a triple in the baseball game. The recipe calls for a triple serving of chocolate.
triad	Used to describe a group or set of three related things or persons, often found in music, philosophy, and sociology. The philosopher's teachings focused on the triad of truth, beauty, and goodness. In music theory, a triad is a chord made up of three notes.
trio	Refers specifically to a group of three people or things. It is commonly used in the context of musical groups, teams, or sets of characters. The jazz trio performed an incredible set last night.

Examples of usage

His speech was filled with tricolons, making his message clear and powerful.
The tricolon 'veni, vidi, vici' by Julius Caesar is a famous example of this rhetorical device.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term comes from the Greek word 'trikolon,' where 'tri-' means 'three' and 'colon' refers to a part of a sentence.
The concept has been used since ancient times in classical rhetoric, often by philosophers and orators.

Literature

Famous authors like Julius Caesar and Winston Churchill effectively utilized tricolons to emphasize their messages.
In literature, a tricolon helps create rhythm and balance, making phrases more memorable.

Public Speaking

Many famous speeches incorporate tricolons to leave a lasting impact, such as 'Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.'
Using a tricolon can help audiences follow along and stay engaged during a speech.

Psychology

Studies suggest that people remember items presented in threes better than those presented in larger groups.
This phenomenon aligns with the brain's preference for patterns, making tricolons effective for persuasion.

Pop Culture

Catchphrases in movies and TV shows often use a tricolon structure to enhance their impact, such as 'Game On, Let’s Go, Bring It!'
Songs frequently feature tricolons in their lyrics, contributing to their catchiness and memorability.

Translations

Translations of the word "tricolon" in other languages:

🇵🇹 trícolon

🇮🇳 त्रिकोलोन

🇩🇪 Trikolon

🇮🇩 trikolon

🇺🇦 тріколон

🇵🇱 trikolon

🇯🇵 三段論法 (さんだんろんぽう)

🇫🇷 tricolon

🇪🇸 trícolon

🇹🇷 üçlü yapı

🇰🇷 삼중구조 (삼중구조)

🇸🇦 تريكولون

🇨🇿 trikolon

🇸🇰 trikolon

🇨🇳 三段论 (sān duàn lùn)

🇸🇮 trikolon

🇮🇸 þríliður

🇰🇿 триколон

🇬🇪 ტრიკოლონი (trik'oloni)

🇦🇿 trikolon

🇲🇽 trícolon