What do you call this rhetorical device?

Question

"I extend my hand and heart and everything"

What do you call when you list something that increases in size (such as the example given above)?

Heart is larger than hand, and everything is larger than heart?

Is it amplification? Not quite sure.

It would be great if someone could help me out!

Answer 1

Hi Haru!

This is an example of auxesis, which is the arranging of words in a list of least to most significant, primarily to create a climax.

You might also consider this hyperbole because of the use of the word "everything," which could be considered an exaggeration.

Amplification is a good thought, but that is a little different. Amplification is where the author repeats the same word or idea along with an adjective(s) to enhance (or "amplify") its significance.

For example:

1."Their harness was new, their horses were new, their pictures were new, they themselves were new..."

which repeats an idea, or:

2."Light is knowledge. Light is life. Light is light."

which gives repeated metaphorical meanings for the meaning of light.

I hope this helps!

-Carly

Answer 2

The rhetorical device you are describing is called gradatio or gradation. By listing words, phrases, or clauses in an ascending or descending order of importance, size, or degree, the writer creates a sense of emphasis and builds towards a climax.