Litotes

[laitәuti:z]

Definition

(noun.) understatement for rhetorical effect (especially when expressing an affirmative by negating its contrary); 'saying `I was not a little upset' when you mean `I was very upset' is an example of litotes'.

Checked by Gardner--From WordNet

Definition

(n.) A diminution or softening of statement for the sake of avoiding censure or increasing the effect by contrast with the moderation shown in the form of expression; as, " a citizen of no mean city," that is, of an illustrious city.

Typist: Terrence

Definition

n. (rhet.) an affirmation made indirectly by the negation of its contrary as 'a citizen of no mean city'='of an illustrious city.'

Checked by Dolores