📌 Chleuasmos
Definition:
Chleuasmos is a rhetorical device in which the speaker mocks themselves in a sarcastic or ironic way, often to pre-empt criticism, deflect blame, or highlight absurdity. It’s a form of ironic self-deprecation that can also serve to ridicule others indirectly.
✅ Example:
- “Oh yes, I’m just the worst friend ever—answering your calls at 2 a.m., lending you money, and helping you move. Truly terrible of me.”
Here, the speaker pretends to agree with an accusation by mocking themselves, but the irony shows the opposite is true.
Another literary-style example:
- “Of course, I’m the fool—reading every book, studying every night, and still somehow knowing nothing.”
And there it is! Now go ahead and use Chleuasmos in your CXC prep/CSEC prep!
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