Name_______________________________
Tone Words
A list of tone words is a practical solution for providing a basic vocabulary to describe an author or speaker’s
attitude toward his or her subject matter. Keeping a list of precise tone adjectives, and adding to it, sharpens
students' skills in analyzing tone. For each of the starred words at the top: 1. look up and write the definition; 2.
determine the connotation (positive +, negative -, or neutral o); and 3. come up with a pneumonic device or
symbol to help you recall the meaning. You will have a quiz on the definitions and connotations on
___________________________.
See the example for benevolent below:
*benevolent: 1. caring,
compassionate, giving
2. + connotation
3. Benvolio is Romeo’s
caring friend.
*nostalgic
*audacious
*obsequious
*pessimistic
*didactic
*irreverent
*contemptuous
*sentimental
*solemn cold
*patronizing
*disdainful
*whimsical
*frivolous
*satiric
*condescending
*poignant
*zealous
*apathetic
*indignant
*sympathetic
*provocative
*somber
*malevolent
proud
giddy
childish
pitiful
sweet
matter-of-fact
hollow
mocking
peaceful
reflective
boring
bitter
vibrant
objective
weary
accusatory
joyful
awed
afraid
horrific
dreamy
apologetic
detached
shocking
happy
dramatic
confused
sharp
complimentary
candid
forceful
sarcastic
celebratory
urgent
ironic
vexed