In literature, the two components of diction are

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the two components that make up diction in literature.

Step 2: Explain the concept Diction is the author's or speaker's choice of words and style of expression. In literary analysis, it is usually described in two parts:

• Vocabulary (word choice): the specific words chosen, such as formal or informal, simple or complex, figurative or literal.
• Syntax (word arrangement): the way the chosen words are arranged into phrases and sentences, such as sentence order, length, and structure.

Together, these show how a writer's choice and arrangement of words create tone, mood, and meaning.

Step 3: Evaluate each option

• A. Sentence construction and punctuation: Punctuation is a mechanical feature of writing, not a component of diction. Wrong.
• B. Vocabulary and punctuation: Vocabulary is correct, but punctuation is not part of diction. Wrong.
• C. Syntax and sentence construction: These are essentially the same thing, since syntax is sentence construction. This option leaves out vocabulary, so it is wrong.
• D. Vocabulary and syntax: Covers both word choice and word arrangement. Correct.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is D. vocabulary and syntax.

Exam tip: Remember "Diction = Words + Order". Diction covers which words (vocabulary) and how they are arranged (syntax). If an option includes punctuation, it is usually a distractor.