T O N E
O V E R V I E W
The author of any piece that you look at will use particular tones in their writing. This aids in convincing their audience of their argument. It can add to the meaning.
Everyday example:
For example, when you are speaking to someone you can say the exact same command but with different tones.
Respectful tone: Can you please empty the dishwasher for me?
Authoritative tone: Empty the dishwasher now.
You can look at things like punctuation, the use of commands (question or statement) and additional words like please to identify the tone.
In a piece the author will often change their tone in different sections. Sometimes this may help them appeal to a wider audience.
W O R D // B A N K
|
POSITIVE
Optimistic
Admiring Candid Dreamy Enthusiastic Humble Appreciative Friendly Cheerful Hopeful Lighthearted Approving Confident Assured |
NEUTRAL
|
NEGATIVE
|
E X A M P L E S
The following examples have been taken from Robert McGregor's Examination of Language Analysis Tasks.
|
The writer's measured tone reflects great caution in dealing with a complex issue.
The appeasing and reasonable tone at the start of the piece gives way to a much more assertive attitude that appears later on in the article. This approach builds rapport with the audience, before....
|
The sad, personal anecdotes related by the writer create the distressed tone of voice of someone who has suffered....
The use of many short, blunt sentences establishes the arrogant and condescending tone of the entire speech...
|
