Apophasis

Apophasis is a rhetorical device in which a speaker or writer mentions a subject only by declaring that they will not discuss it. The technique often functions by stating that a topic will be passed over or ignored, and then proceeding to discuss it or casting it as noteworthy. The term derives from the Greek apophasis, from apo “away” and phasis “speech,” often described as “speaking away” a subject.

In practice, apophasis can serve to draw attention to an issue under the guise of avoiding it. It is widely used in political discourse, journalism, and opinion writing, where a line such as “not to remind you of the obvious problems with this plan” signals critique while maintaining a measured tone. It can also function to soften an accusation or to imply a point without stating it directly.

Relationships to other figures of speech vary by tradition. Some treat apophasis as a subtype of praeteritio or paralipsis—the broader figure of mentioning by negation or omission—while others distinguish that apophasis centers on negated mention, whereas praeteritio may merely pass over a topic. In modern usage, the device remains common, particularly in political rhetoric and media commentary, where it can influence perception by pairing a disclaimer with content that follows.

Examples include phrases such as “not to mention the budget problems” or “I will not go into the rumors about the candidate’s health.”