Literary Theory Terminology

noun the meaning or significance of something

adjective having meaning or significance

• The signification of the symbol in the novel was open to interpretation.
• I'm not sure about the signification of that gesture, can you explain?
• I don't get the signification behind his actions, it's all a mystery to me.
• The signification of her smile spoke volumes about her true feelings.

noun the quality or characteristic of being an author; the state of being an author

• The authoriality of the text was evident in the meticulous attention to detail and the coherent narrative structure.
• You can really see the authoriality of the writer shining through in this book.
• The authoriality of this piece is off the charts - you can tell the writer poured their heart and soul into it.
• The authoriality of her paintings was unmistakable, each stroke of the brush reflecting her unique perspective and style.

noun a person who specializes in comparative literature or cultural studies

• The comparatist scholar analyzed the similarities and differences between various literary works.
• My friend is a comparatist and loves to compare different books and movies.
• I didn't know you were such a comparatist when it comes to music!
• As a comparatist of cultures, she was able to see connections that others may have overlooked.