chiastic

Chiastic is an adjective relating to chiasm, a crosswise or inverted arrangement of elements. Derived from the Greek chi, the letter X, chiastic structures involve a symmetrical reversal of parallel lines, phrases, or ideas. In rhetoric, the figure of chiastic reversal is commonly called chiasmus, but chiastic describes the structural pattern itself. The typical chiastic form arranges components in a mirrored order, such as ABBA, with longer forms nesting parallel units around a central pivot. The central element is often emphasized by its position at the turning point of the structure.

In literature, biblical criticism, and other textual analysis, chiastic design is used to organize material, create emphasis, and aid memorability. Many ancient texts, including portions of the Hebrew Bible and early Christian writings, have been described as containing chiastic structures, though scholars debate how deliberate such patterns are. Chiastic arrangement can also appear in poetry, narrative prose, and rhetorical speeches, where it helps to unify themes by presenting them in mirror image.

In other fields, the concept can extend to music or choreography where phrases, motifs, or steps are arranged in a mirrored sequence, creating balance and a sense of symmetry.

See also: chiasmus, chiasm.