 Dissociation (rhetoric)

Dissociation in rhetoric refers to a rhetorical strategy where the speaker distinguishes between two concepts or ideas that are closely related in order to clarify or redefine their meanings. This technique allows the speaker to separate or set apart certain elements that may typically be conflated, enabling the audience to understand a distinction that may not have been previously considered. By dissociating terms, speakers can manipulate perceptions, reframe arguments, or highlight differences that provide a more nuanced understanding of an issue.