What is an understatement that expresses the affirmative by saying the negative of the contrary called? A. hyperbole B. litotes C. paradox D. parody

Break Down the Problem

1. Identify the key term in the question: "understatement that expresses the affirmative by saying the negative of the contrary."
2. Recognize the provided answer choices: A. hyperbole, B. litotes, C. paradox, D. parody.

Relevant Concepts

1. Understatement - A figure of speech that intentionally makes a situation seem less important than it is.
2. Litotes - A specific type of understatement that uses the negation of the contrary to emphasize a point.

Analysis and Detail

1. Hyperbole (Choice A) refers to exaggerated statements not meant to be taken literally.
2. Litotes (Choice B) involves using double negatives or a negative to affirm a positive—e.g., saying “not bad” to mean “good.”
3. Paradox (Choice C) is a statement that may seem contradictory but can reveal a truth.
4. Parody (Choice D) involves imitation of a style for comic effect.

Verify and Summarize

Considering the definitions, litotes is the only option that correctly describes the use of negating the contrary to emphasize an affirmative statement.

Final Answer

B. litotes