Chiasmus: GCSE English Definition

What is chiasmus?

In GCSE English Literature and GCSE English Language, chiasmus is a technique where words, sentences or ideas are repeated in reverse order. 

Why do writers use chiasmus?

Writers use chiasmus for emphasis: sometimes it helps to reinforce a particular idea, or to contrast two opposing ideas. It can work particularly well in persuasive writing, like a speech.

Examples of chiasmus

In Shakespeare’s Macbeth, the witches’ line in the first scene of the play (“fair is foul, and foul is fair”) is an example of chiasmus that introduces the themes of good (“fair”) versus evil (“foul”), as well as deception (things that appear “fair” are in fact “foul”).

Former US president John F. Kennedy’s famous line is another example of chiasmus:

“My fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.”

Here chiasmus is used as a rhetorical device to engage the listener.

Revision resources to ace your exams

Learn how to explore a writer’s use of chiasmus, and how best to include rhetorical devices into your own persuasive writing, by using our detailed GCSE revision notes.

GCSE English Literature Revision Notes 

GCSE English Language Revision Notes

For more literary techniques, check out our list of 127 top literary devices, complete with student-friendly definitions.