Which term describes the repetition of initial consonant sounds at the start of nearby words?

• A. Imagery
• B. Repetition
• C. Alliteration
• D. Onomatopoeia

Answer: (C)

The main idea being tested is alliteration—the repetition of initial consonant sounds at the start of nearby words. This sound pattern gives writing a musical rhythm and helps certain words stand out. For example, in the well-known line “Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers,” the repeated “p” sound at the beginning of several words creates a memorable beat.

Imagery focuses on vivid sensory details to paint a picture, not on repeating sounds at the start of words. Repetition means saying something again, but it doesn’t have to occur at the beginnings of neighboring words. Onomatopoeia uses words that imitate real sounds, like “buzz” or “clang.” The feature that matches the pattern of repeated initial consonant sounds across nearby words is alliteration. You can recognize it by listening for those repeated consonant beginnings in close proximity.