Each of these words beginning with epi- (from the Greek word for "upon") has multiple definitions, but here are the most common meanings.
Definitions
- An epigram is a brief, witty statement in prose or verse--similar to an aphorism.
- An epigraph is a brief quotation set at the beginning of a text (a book, a chapter of a book, an essay, a poem) to suggest its theme.
- An epitaph is a brief inscription in prose or verse on a tombstone or monument.
None of these words, by the way, should be confused with epithet--an adjective expressing some quality or attribute that is characteristic of a person or thing.
Examples
- "He spoke in epigrams about events in the morning paper, prefacing his lectures each day with a few minutes of commentary, invariably sardonic, about a political event that had caught his eye."
(Harrison E. Salisbury, A Journey for Our Times. Harper & Row, 1983) - "I believe, as the epigraph to my book states, that 'the deepest human life is everywhere.'"
(Scott Samuelson, The Deepest Human Life: An Introduction to Philosophy for Everyone. University of Chicago Press, 2014) - The cerulean-eyed Paul Newman once wryly predicted his epitaph: "Here lies Paul Newman, who died a failure because his eyes turned brown."
Practice
- "My father had a favorite _____ that he repeated probably 20 times for me as I grew up: When preparedness meets opportunity, that's luck."
(Joe Flynn, "Taylor to TQM," 1998) - "I am curious, about all of it, all the time,” Studs Terkel once said. "'Curiosity never killed this cat' --that's what I'd like as my _____."
- The _____ to Jay McInerney's novel Bright Lights, Big City is a quotation from Hemingway's novel The Sun Also Rises.
Answers to Practice Exercises
- "My father had a favoriteepigramthat he repeated probably 20 times for me as I grew up:When preparedness meets opportunity, that's luck." (Joe Flynn, "Taylor to TQM," 1998)
- "'Curiosity never killed thiscat' -- that'swhat I'd like as myepitaph."
- Theepigraphto Jay McInerney's novelBright Lights, Big Cityis a quotation from Hemingway's novelThe Sun Also Rises.
I am a seasoned linguist and literature enthusiast with a profound understanding of various literary devices and linguistic nuances. Throughout my academic and professional journey, I have immersed myself in the intricate realm of language, scrutinizing its multifaceted aspects. My expertise extends to etymology, semantics, and the profound connections between words and their meanings.
Now, delving into the matter at hand, let's unravel the distinct concepts encapsulated by the terms beginning with "epi-." Each of these words, derived from the Greek word for "upon," carries its own unique significance in the literary domain.
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Epigram:
- An epigram is not merely a word; it is a succinct, witty statement crafted in either prose or verse. This concise expression often conveys a profound or humorous insight, akin to an aphorism. The examples provided illustrate its use in conveying commentary on events or encapsulating the essence of human life.
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Epigraph:
- The term "epigraph" refers to a brief quotation strategically placed at the commencement of a text, be it a book, a chapter, an essay, or a poem. The purpose is to offer a glimpse into the theme or tone of the work. The excerpt from Scott Samuelson's book exemplifies the use of an epigraph to encapsulate a philosophical stance.
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Epitaph:
- An epitaph is a succinct inscription, either in prose or verse, found on a tombstone or monument. It serves as a memorial for the deceased, offering a glimpse into their life, character, or even a touch of humor. The example involving Paul Newman's predicted epitaph showcases the potential for wit and reflection in these commemorations.
Furthermore, it's crucial to note the distinction between these "epi-" words and the term "epithet." An epithet is an adjective expressing a characteristic quality or attribute of a person or thing. This differentiation prevents confusion and highlights the precise usage of each term.
Now, applying this knowledge to the practice exercises:
- "My father had a favorite epigram that he repeated probably 20 times for me as I grew up: When preparedness meets opportunity, that's luck." (Joe Flynn, "Taylor to TQM," 1998)
- "I am curious, about all of it, all the time,” Studs Terkel once said. "'Curiosity never killed this cat' -- that's what I'd like as my epitaph."
- The epigraph to Jay McInerney's novel Bright Lights, Big City is a quotation from Hemingway's novel The Sun Also Rises.
