aphorisms
As a literary device, a short sayings that observe a truth or opinion. This is a type of adage.
Aphorisms are distinguishable from idioms, colloquialisms, and proverbs because they do not need much, if any, interpretation. Although some parts of an aphorism may be figurative, on a whole an aphorism is not figurative and should be easy to understand.
Examples:
- “The simplest questions are the hardest to answer.” — Northrop Frye
- “With great power comes great responsibility.” — Uncle Ben from SpiderMan
- Actions speak louder than words.
Also see adage.
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