consists of exaggerating some part of your statement in order to give it emphasis or focus

Ex:  The planet is getting so crowded we may have to take turns sitting down.

The force of a descriptive statement is less than what one would normally expect.

 It may be used for humorous effect.

Ex:  Leonardo da Vinci had a good idea or two.

emphasizes its point by using a word opposite to the condition

Ex:  It wasn't a bad deal.  (describing the Louisiana Purchase)

makes use of a contrast in language to bring out a contrast in ideas.

Ex:  That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.

the technique of asking a question, then proceeding to answer it.

Ex:  Why should you vote for me?  I'll give you five good reasons....

a question in which the answer is merely implied

Ex:  For what can war but endless war breed?

deals specifically with objections, and it usually does so without even asking the question

Ex:  Many other experts want to classify Sanskrit as an extinct language, but I do not.

a rhetorical form in which the writer elaborates on the definition of a word, to make sure there is no misunderstanding

Ex:  Before we can discuss immigration, we need to agree on the fact that there are huge differences between legal and illegal immigration.

a device in which the writer compares two things that are already somewhat related using the words like or as (and sometimes so)

Ex:  The shower room, steamy like a Louisiana summer, rang with the athletes' jubilant laughter.

You should sing tonight as a bird in spring, calling for its mate.

The night is gentle and quiet; so, too, is my love for her.