Assonance: Definition, Meaning and Examples

What is Assonance?

Assonance is a figure of speech where words with the same vowel sounds are used one after another. It is the same as alliteration but focuses on vowel sounds instead of consonants. As per the Oxford Learner’s Dictionary, the meaning of assonance is when two or more words close to each other have the same vowel sound, even if their consonants are different.

Learning what is assonance is important because it makes writing, poetry, songs, and speeches sound more musical and easy to remember. For example, in the line “Tryin’ to reach my goal, my power of speech unimpeachable,” the long “ee” sound is repeated, which is creating a smooth and memorable effect while reading. Keep reading to learn about how to use assonance in a sentence.

Enroll Now for Online English Learning Classes

How to Use Assonance in a Sentence

After learning what is assonance, another question that comes to mind is how to use assonance in a sentence. Assonance is not the same as rhyming, which is generally used at the end of words.

Assonance focuses on repeating vowel sounds anywhere in the words; it can be at the beginning, middle, or end to make sentences sound musical and pleasing. Here’s how you can use assonance in a sentence:

• Choose vowel sounds you want to repeat. For example, you can use the “a” sound as in cat, bat, and map.

• Use words that share that vowel sound. You don’t need to place them one after another. Just make sure they appear in the same line or sentence.

• Add other words to complete the meaning. You can include other words between them to form a natural sentence.

• Read the sentence aloud. This helps you notice how the repeating vowel sound gives rhythm and flow to your sentence.

Read more: What is Opposite Words?

Why Use Assonance in Your Writing?

Here are some reasons why using assonance in poetry and writing is important:

• To create rhythm: Assonance makes the lines flow smoothly and gives them a natural beat, just like in poems or songs.

• To draw attention to certain words: When a vowel sound repeats, it stands out and makes readers notice those words more.

• To make writing more lively: It adds beauty and sound to your sentences, making them more enjoyable to read or listen to.

• To set a mood or tone: The sound of vowels can create a feeling. For example, long vowels may sound calm, while short vowels can make lines sound quick and sharp.

• To highlight the theme: By repeating some sounds, you can connect ideas and make the main message impactful.

Now you know why use assonance in your writing because it adds rhythm, beauty, and emotion to your words.

Read more: Sports Names in English for Kids

Assonance Examples Poem, Songs, Phrases

Assonance in poetry makes the poem sound more musical and smooth. It adds rhythm to the lines and helps some specific words stand out. One of the most common assonance examples poem is the line, “The rain in Spain stays mainly in the plain.” It is written by Alan Jay Lerner for the 1956 musical My Fair Lady.

Here, the long “ai” sound in rain, Spain, mainly, and plain makes the line flow nicely and sound rhythmic. Check some more examples of assonance in common phrases, poems, literature, and songs, as given below.

• Assonance in Poem: “Hear the mellow wedding bells.”: The “e” sound repeats, giving a musical flow to the line.

• Assonance in Song: “Go and mow the lawn.” The “o” sound repeats, making it sound catchy.

• Assonance in Literature: “The early bird catches the worm.”: The “e” sound in “early” and “bird” adds rhythm to the sentence.

• Assonance in Common Phrase: “Slow and steady wins the race.”: The “o” sound repeats, making it easy to remember.

Read more: Mood in English Grammar

Watch Your Child Become Confident in English with CuriousJr

Is your child nervous about speaking English? Many children feel shy or unsure while speaking English, which can affect their confidence in school and daily life.

CuriousJr’s Online English Classes help your child speak clearly and confidently, step by step.

• Our classes cover everything your child needs, from grammar and vocabulary to writing and public speaking.

• It gives a personalised English journey for every age group: Starters (6–8), Movers (8–10), Key (10–12), and Preliminary (12–14).

• Through live audio-video classes, homework help, and regular parent meetings, your child learns in a fun and focused way, building confidence in every lesson.

Improve your child's broken English before it becomes their identity. Book a demo class today and watch your child grow into a confident English speaker.