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MOM: Hayley, how did you do on your algebra exam? HAYLEY: Not bad; I got 100 percent. Which rhetorical element is used in this example?

User Jahnette
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It's an understatement
User Andrew Clark
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Answer: Understatement

This is a case of understatement. An understatement is a rhetorical device that gives an expression of lesser strength than what would be expected. Understatement is used for emphasis and irony. In this case, Hayley states that her test was "not bad." This is an understatement, as he score was 100%, which is in fact excellent.

User Dmytro Vasin
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