AP Tone Words
1. abhorrent- causing repugnance; detestable; loathsome. Utterly opposed, or contrary, or in conflict.
2. acerbic- harsh or severe, as of temper or expression: acerbic criticism
3. acrimony- sharpness, harshness, or bitterness of nature, speech, disposition, etc.: The speaker attacked him with great acrimony. Bitterness. Animosity.
4. Accusatory-Charging of wrong doing
5. admirable- worthy of admiration; inspiring approval, reverence, or affection. Excellent. First-rate.
6. affectionate- having great affection or love; warmly attached; loving: your affectionate brother
7. agitation- the act or process of agitating; state of being agitated: She left in great agitation.
8. allusive- having reference to something implied or inferred; containing, abounding in, or characterized by allusions. Containing or characterized by indirect references: an allusive speech.
9. ambitious- having ambition; eagerly desirous of achieving or obtaining success, power, wealth, a specific goal, etc.: ambitious students. Eager
10. ambivalent- uncertainty or fluctuation, esp. when caused by inability to make a choice or by a simultaneous desire to say or do two opposite or conflicting things. the coexistence within an individual of positive and negative feelings toward the same person, object, or action, simultaneously drawing him or her in opposite directions
11. angry-strong resentment, wrathful, malicious, threatening
12. angst- a feeling of dread, anxiety, apprehension, or anguish
13. anguish- excruciating or acute distress, suffering, or pain: the anguish of grief. Torment. Torture
14. annoyed- To cause slight irritation to (another) by troublesome, often repeated acts. Mild disturbance.
15. antipathy- a natural, basic, or habitual repugnance; aversion. An object of natural aversion or habitual dislike.
16. anxious/anxiety- full of mental distress or uneasiness because of fear of danger or misfortune; greatly worried; solicitous: Her parents were anxious about her poor health. attended with or showing solicitude or uneasiness: anxious forebodings. earnestly desirous; eager
17. appalled- To fill with consternation or dismay. struck with fear, dread, or consternation
18. apologetic- containing an apology or excuse for a fault, failure, insult, injury, etc.: An apologetic letter to his creditors explained the delay. defending by speech or writing. sorry; regretful
19. apprehensive- uneasy or fearful about something that might happen. perceptive; discerning (usually fol. by "of.")
20. ardent- having, expressive of, or characterized by intense feeling; passionate; fervent: an ardent vow; ardent love. intensely devoted, eager, or enthusiastic; zealous: an ardent theatergoer. an ardent student of French history. vehement; fierce: They were frightened by his ardent, burning eyes.
21. audacious- extremely bold or daring; recklessly brave; fearless: an audacious explorer. extremely original; without restriction to prior ideas; highly inventive: an audacious vision of the city's bright future. recklessly bold in defiance of convention, propriety, law, or the like; insolent; brazen. lively; unrestrained; uninhibited: an audacious interpretation of her role.
22. austere- severe in manner or appearance; uncompromising; strict; forbidding: an austere teacher. rigorously self-disciplined and severely moral; ascetic; abstinent: the austere quality of life in the convent. grave; sober; solemn; serious: an austere manner. without excess, luxury, or ease; simple; limited; severe: an austere life. severely simple; without ornament: austere writing.
23. aversive- Causing avoidance of a thing, situation, or behavior by using an unpleasant or punishing stimulus, as in techniques of behavior modification.
24. awe-solemn wonder.
25. bantering- To speak to in a playful or teasing way. Good-humored, playful conversation.
26. barren- not producing or incapable of producing offspring; sterile: a barren woman. unproductive; unfruitful: barren land. without capacity to interest or attract: a barren period in American architecture; mentally unproductive; dull.
27. benevolent- characterized by or expressing goodwill or kindly feelings: a benevolent attitude; her benevolent smile. desiring to help others; charitable: gifts from several benevolent alumni. intended for benefits rather than profit: a benevolent institution.
28. bewildered- completely puzzled or confused; perplexed.
29. bitter- hard to bear; grievous; distressful: a bitter sorrow. causing pain; piercing; stinging. characterized by intense antagonism or hostility: bitter hatred. resentful, or cynical.
30. bleak- bare, desolate, and often windswept: a bleak plain. without hope or encouragement; depressing; dreary: a bleak future. Cold, piercing. Raw.
31. blissful- full of, abounding in, enjoying, or conferring bliss. Extreme happiness. Ecstasy.
32. blunt- abrupt in address or manner: a blunt, ill-timed question. slow in perception or understanding; obtuse: His isolation has made him blunt about the feelings of others. to weaken or impair the force, keenness, or susceptibility of: Wine first excites, then blunts the imagination.
33. bossy- given to ordering people about; overly authoritative; domineering.
34. brusque- abrupt in manner; blunt; rough: A brusque welcome greeted his unexpected return Abrupt and curt in manner or speech; discourteously blunt.
35. burlesque- an artistic composition, esp. literary or dramatic, that, for the sake of laughter, vulgarizes lofty material or treats ordinary material with mock dignity. any ludicrous parody or grotesque caricature. Also, bur·lesk. a humorous and provocative stage show featuring slapstick humor, comic skits, bawdy songs, and a scantily clad female chorus.
36. cacophonous- having a harsh or discordant sound. dissonant, strident, grating, raucous.
37. callous-unfeeling, insensitive to others.
38. candid- frank; outspoken; open and sincere: a candid critic. free from reservation, disguise, or subterfuge; straightforward: a candid opinion. honest; impartial.
39. casual- happening by chance; fortuitous: a casual meeting. without definite or serious intention; careless or offhand; passing: a casual remark. seeming or tending to be indifferent to what is happening; apathetic; unconcerned: a casual, nonchalant air.
40. caustic- capable of burning, corroding, or destroying living tissue. severely critical or sarcastic: a caustic remark. biting, mordant, bitter, scathing.
41. cheerful- full of cheer; in good spirits. hearty or ungrudging.
42. childish- of, like, or befitting a child. puerile; weak; silly. Marked by or indicating a lack of maturity. Not complicated-simple.
43. choleric- extremely irritable or easily angered; irascible: a choleric disposition. wrathful, testy, impatient, touchy.
44. clinical- extremely objective and realistic; dispassionately analytic; unemotionally critical: She regarded him with clinical detachment.
45. cold- lacking in passion, emotion, enthusiasm, ardor, etc.; dispassionate: cold reason. depressing; dispiriting. failing to excite feeling or interest: the cold precision of his prose.
46. colloquial- characteristic of or appropriate to ordinary or familiar conversation rather than formal speech or writing; informal.
47. compassionate- having or showing compassion: a compassionate person; a compassionate letter. pitying, sympathizing, sympathetic, tender.
48. complimentary- of the nature of, conveying, or expressing a compliment, often one that is politely flattering. commendatory, praising, laudatory.
49. conceited- having an excessively favorable opinion of one's abilities, appearance, etc. vain, proud, egotistical, self-important, self-satisfied.
50. conciliatory- To overcome the distrust or animosity of; appease. To regain or try to regain (friendship or goodwill) by pleasant behavior. To make or attempt to make compatible; reconcile.
51. concerned- interested or affected: concerned citizens. troubled or anxious. having a connection or involvement; participating: They arrested all those concerned in the kidnapping.
52. condescending- showing or implying a usually patronizing descent from dignity or superiority: They resented the older neighbors' condescending cordiality. patronizing, disdainful, supercilious.
53. confident- having strong belief or full assurance; sure: confident of fulfillment. sure of oneself; having no uncertainty about one's own abilities, correctness, successfulness, etc.; self-confident; bold: a confident speaker. excessively bold; presumptuous.
54. confused-to perplex or bewilder; to make unclear or indistinct.
55. contemplative-studying, thinking, reflecting on an issue.
56. contemptuous (kən-těmp'chōō-əs)- showing or expressing contempt or disdain; scornful, disdainful, sneering, insolent, arrogant, supercilious, haughty. Showing disrespect.
57. contentious - tending to argument or strife; quarrelsome: a contentious crew. causing, involving, or characterized by argument or controversy: contentious issues
58. conventional-lacking spontaneity, originality, and individuality
59. credulous - willing to believe or trust too readily, esp. without proper or adequate evidence; gullible; showing a lack of judgment or experience. Ex. He's so credulous he believes everything he reads.
60. critical - inclined to find fault or to judge with severity.
61. cynical - like or characteristic of a cynic; distrusting or disparaging the motives of others; showing contempt for accepted standards of honesty or morality by one's actions, esp. by actions that exploit the scruples of others; bitterly or sneeringly distrustful, contemptuous, or pessimistic; sarcastic
62. delightful-giving great pleasure or delight; highly pleasing
63. depressed-sad and gloomy; dejected; downcast; saddened, morose, despondent, miserable; blue; morbid.
64. derisive (dĭ-rī'sĭv)- contemptuous; mocking; jeering; expressing ridicule; causing or deserving scorn
65. derogatory (dĭ-rŏg'ə-tôr'ē)- tending to lessen the merit or reputation of a person or thing; disparaging; depreciatory: a derogatory remark; belittling, uncomplimentary, denigrating
66. despiteful (dĭ-spīt'fəl)-malicious; spiteful; contemptuous; insolent; showing malicious ill will and a desire to hurt
67. desolate (děs'ə-lĭt)- barren or laid waste; devastated: a treeless, desolate landscape; deprived or destitute of inhabitants; deserted; uninhabited; solitary; lonely: a desolate place; having the feeling of being abandoned by friends or by hope; forlorn; dreary; dismal; gloomy
68. desperate-reckless or dangerous because of despair or urgency: a desperate killer; having an urgent need, desire, etc.: desperate for attention; extreme or excessive; making a final, ultimate effort; giving all: a desperate attempt to save a life.
69. despondent (dĭ-spŏn'dənt)- feeling or showing profound hopelessness, dejection, discouragement, or gloom: despondent about failing health; disheartened, downhearted, melancholy, blue.
70. detached-not attached; separated; impartial or objective; disinterested; unbiased: a detached judgment. Not involved or concerned; aloof
71. detestable (dĭ-těs'tə-bəl)- deserving to be detested; abominable; hateful; execrable, abhorrent, loathsome, odious, vile; offensive to the mind; "an abhorrent deed”
72. diabolical (dī'ə-bŏl'ĭ-kəl)- having the qualities of a devil; devilish; fiendish; outrageously wicked: a diabolic plot; Appropriate to a devil, especially in degree of wickedness or cruelty.
73. didactic (dī-dāk'tĭk)- intended for instruction; instructive; inclined to teach or lecture others too much: a boring, didactic speaker. teaching or intending to teach a moral lesson
74. diffident (dĭf'ĭ-dənt)- lacking confidence in one's own ability, worth, or fitness; timid; shy; restrained or reserved in manner, conduct; self-conscious, self-effacing, abashed, embarrassed, modest, unassuming, unconfident
75. disconsolate (dĭs-kŏn'sə-lĭt)- without consolation or solace; hopelessly unhappy; inconsolable: Loss of her pet dog made her disconsolate; characterized by or causing dejection; cheerless; gloomy: disconsolate prospects; heartbroken, dejected, sad, melancholy, sorrowful, miserable, desolate
76. disdainful (dĭs-dān'fəl)- contemptuous, haughty, scornful; expressing extreme contempt; having or showing arrogant superiority to and disdain of those one views as unworthy
77. disappointed-depressed or discouraged by the failure of one's hopes or expectations: a disappointed suitor. To fail to satisfy the hope, desire, or expectation of
78. dismal(dĭz'məl)- causing gloom or dejection; gloomy; dreary; cheerless; melancholy: dismal weather; characterized by ineptness or lack of skill, competence, effectiveness, imagination, or interest; pitiful: Our team played a dismal game. hopeless
79. dismay(dĭs-mā') --sudden or complete loss of courage; utter disheartenment; sudden disillusionment; agitation of mind; perturbation; alarm; To destroy the courage or resolution of by exciting dread or apprehension; To cause to lose enthusiasm; disillusion: was dismayed to learn that her favorite dancer used drugs
80. distressed-To cause strain, anxiety, or suffering to; mental anxiety; To mar or otherwise treat (an object or fabric, for example) to give the appearance of an antique or of heavy prior use: "There are the fakes—new rugs which have been intentionally distressed for an older look"
81. doubtful-of uncertain outcome or result; admitting of or causing doubt; uncertain; ambiguous; undetermined, unsettled, indecisive, dubious, problematic; incredulous
82. dramatic-characteristic of or appropriate to the drama, esp. in involving conflict or contrast; vivid; moving: dramatic colors; a dramatic speech; highly effective; striking: The silence following his impassioned speech ) dramatic. theatrical. startling, sensational
83. dreamy-of the nature of or characteristic of dreams; visionary; soothing; restful; quieting;
84. earnest-intense, a sincere state of mind
85. ebullient (ĭ-bŏŏl'yənt)- overflowing with fervor, enthusiasm, or excitement; high-spirited: The award winner was in an ebullient mood at the dinner in her honor.
86. effusive (ĭ-fyōō'sĭv)- unduly demonstrative; lacking reserve: effusive greetings; an effusive person; pouring out; overflowing; Unrestrained or excessive in emotional expression; gushy: an effusive manner.
87. elated (ĭ-lāt' ed)- very happy or proud; jubilant; in high spirits: an elated winner of a contest; overjoyed, ecstatic
88. elegiac (ěl'ə-jī'ək, ĭ-lē'jē-āk') - expressing sorrow or lamentation; used in, suitable for, or resembling an elegy; expressing sorrow for something past
89. empathetic(ěm'pə-thět'ĭk)-showing empathy; the intellectual identification with or vicarious experiencing of the feelings, thoughts, or attitudes of another; sympathy; The attribution of one's own feelings to an object
90. encouraging-to inspire with courage, spirit, or confidence; to promote, advance, or foster:
91. enraged-to make extremely angry; put into a rage; infuriate
92. erudite - learned, polished, scholarly
93. euphonious (yōō-fō'nē-əs)- pleasant in sound; agreeable to the ear; characterized by euphony: a sweet, euphonious voice; not harsh or strident
94. euphoric (yōō-fôr'ik)- A feeling of great happiness or well-being; a feeling of happiness, confidence, or well-being sometimes
95. exasperated (ĭg-zās'pə-rāt'ed)- to irritate or provoke to a high degree; annoy extremely: He was exasperated by the senseless delays; To make very angry or impatient; annoy greatly
96. excited-stirred emotionally; stimulated to activity; brisk
97. expectant-having expectations; expecting
98. facetious (fə-sē'shəs)- Playfully jocular; humorous: facetious remarks; not meant to be taken seriously or literally: a facetious remark; lacking serious intent; concerned with something nonessential, amusing, or frivolous: a facetious person
99. factual-of or pertaining to facts; concerning facts:
100. fanciful-suggested by fancy; imaginary; unreal
101. fatalistic-the acceptance of all things and events as inevitable; submission to fate: Her fatalism helped her to face death with stoic calm; the doctrine that all events are subject to fate or inevitable predetermination
102. fatuous(fāch'ōō-əs)- foolish or inane, esp. in an unconscious, complacent manner; silly; unreal; stupid; illusory
103. fearful-feeling fear, dread, apprehension, or solicitude.
104. fervent (fûr'vənt)- having or showing great warmth or intensity of spirit, feeling, enthusiasm, etc.; ardent: a fervent admirer; a fervent plea; hot; burning; glowing; impassioned, passionate
105. flippant (flĭp'ənt)- frivolously disrespectful, shallow, or lacking in seriousness; characterized by
levity: The audience was shocked by his flippant remarks about patriotism;
106. foolish-resulting from or showing a lack of sense; ill-considered; unwise: a foolish action, a foolish speech; lacking forethought or caution
107. foreboding-a strong inner feeling or notion of a future misfortune, evil, etc.; presentiment
108. forthright - directly frank without hesitation
109. frantic-desperate or wild with excitement, passion, fear, pain, etc.; frenzied
110. frightened-thrown into a fright; afraid; scared; terrified
111. frustrated-having a feeling of or filled with frustration; dissatisfied
112. unereal-mournful; gloomy; dismal; of or suitable for a funeral
113. furious-full of fury, violent passion, or rage; extremely angry; enraged
114. gleeful-full of exultant joy; merry; delighted
115. gloomy-hopeless or despairing; pessimistic
116. gothic- noting or pertaining to a style of literature characterized by a gloomy setting, grotesque, mysterious, or violent events, and an atmosphere of degeneration and decay
117. grave-serious or solemn; sober; weighty, momentous, or important; threatening a seriously bad outcome or involving serious issues; critical
118. greedy-excessively or inordinately desirous of wealth, profit
119. grim-stern and admitting of no appeasement or compromise: grim determination; grim
necessity. of a sinister or ghastly character; repellent: a grim joke. having a harsh, surly,
forbidding, or morbid air: a grim man but a just one; a grim countenance
120. gullible-easily deceived or cheated; credulous, trusting, naive, innocent, simple, green
121. gushy-given to or marked by excessively effusive talk, behavior; emotional, enthusiastic, unrestrained, demonstrative, unreserved.
122. happy-characterized by or indicative of pleasure, contentment, or joy; joyous, joyful, blithe, cheerful, merry, contented, gay, blissful, satisfied
123. haughty-disdainfully proud; snobbish; scornfully arrogant; supercilious; contemptuous
124. hilarious-arousing great merriment; extremely funny
125. holier-than-thou-obnoxiously pious; sanctimonious; self-righteous
126. hopeless-providing no hope; beyond optimism or hope; desperate; despairing, despondent, desperate; disconsolate
127. horrific-Causing horror; terrifying
128. hostile-opposed in feeling, action, or character; antagonistic: hostile criticism; warlike, aggressive
129. humble-not proud or arrogant; modest; courteously respectful: In my humble opinion you are wrong; unpretending, unpretentious. 2. submissive, meek. 3. unassuming, plain, common, poor
130. humorous-characterized by humor; funny; comical
131. idyllic (ī-dĭl'ĭk) - unspoiled, sylvan, pastoral; charmingly simple or rustic: his idyllic life in Tahiti. Simple and carefree: an idyllic vacation in a seashore cottage; excellent and delightful in all respects; "an idyllic spot for a picnic"
132. informal- without formality or ceremony; casual; not according to the prescribed, official, or customary way or manner; irregular; unofficial
133. inspiring- to fill with an animating, quickening, or exalting influence: His courage inspired his followers.
134. impartial-not partial or biased; fair; just: an impartial judge; unbiased, equitable, unprejudiced
135. mpatient-not patient; not accepting delay, opposition, pain, etc., with calm or patience
136. imperious(ĭm-pîr'ē-əs) -domineering in a haughty manner; dictatorial; overbearing: an imperious manner; an imperious person. urgent; imperative: imperious need. tyrannical, despotic, arrogant
137. inane(ĭn-ān') -lacking sense, significance, or ideas; silly: inane questions; empty; void; pointless
138. incisive(ĭn-sī'sĭv)- penetrating; cutting; biting; trenchant: an incisive tone of voice; remarkably clear and direct; sharp; keen; acute: an incisive method of summarizing the issue; sarcastic; sardonic
139. incredulous (ĭn-krěj'ə-ləs)- indicating or showing unbelief: an incredulous smile; not credulous; disinclined or indisposed to believe; skeptical
140. indignant (ĭn-dĭg'nənt)- feeling, characterized by, or expressing strong displeasure at something considered unjust, offensive, insulting, or base: indignant remarks; an indignant expression on his face; angry, resentful, infuriated, mad
141. inflammatory (ĭn-flām'ə-tôr'ē)- tending to arouse anger, hostility, passion, etc.: inflammatory speeches.
142. informative-giving information; instructive
143. innocent-free from moral wrong; without sin; pure; not involving evil intent or motive; sinless, virtuous; faultless, impeccable, spotless, immaculate. 2. Innocent, blameless, guiltless
144. insecure-subject to fears, doubts, etc.; not self-confident or assured
145. insipid (ĭn-sĭp'ĭd)- without distinctive, interesting, or stimulating qualities; vapid: an insipid personality.bland, flat, dull, uninteresting
146. insolent (ĭn'sə-lənt)- boldly rude or disrespectful; contemptuously impertinent; insulting: an insolent reply; brazen; contemptuous
147. intimate-very private; closely personal; characterized by or suggesting privacy or intimacy; warmly cozy: an intimate little café
148. intimidation-to make timid; fill with fear; frighten; subdue; taunt
149. introspective-consider one's own internal state or feelings; to look into or examine (one's own mind, feelings, etc.).
150. irascible (i-ras-uh-buhl) easily provoked to angerl very irritable.
151. ironic-coincidental; unexpected
152. irreverent(ĭ-rěv'ər-ənt) - not reverent; irreligious, impious, profane; Lacking or exhibiting a lack of reverence; disrespectful; Critical of what is generally accepted or respected; satirical: irreverent humor.
153. jingoistic (jĭng'gō-ĭz'əm) - Extreme nationalism characterized especially by a belligerent foreign policy; chauvinistic patriotism; fanatically patriotic ; zealous and aggressive patriotism or blind enthusiasm for military glory.
154. jocund (jŏk'ənd)- cheerful; merry; gay; blithe; glad: a witty and jocund group; joyous, joyful, blithesome, jolly; sprightly and lighthearted in disposition
155. jovial/joyful/joyous-full of joy, as a person or one's heart; glad; delighted; joyous, happy, blithe; buoyant, elated, jubilant
156. judgmental-authoritative and often having critical opinions
157. laidback-relaxed or unhurried; free from stress; easy-going
158. audatory (lô'də-tôr'ē, -tōr'ē)- containing or expressing praise: overwhelmed by the speaker's laudatory remarks. adulatory, complimentary, commendatory
159. lethargic (lə-thär'jĭk)- drowsy; sluggish; lazy, indolent, torpid
160. loathsome-causing feelings of loathing; disgusting; revolting; repulsive: a loathsome skin disease; offensive, repellent, detestable, abhorrent, abominable
161. lugubrious (lŏŏ-gōō'brē-əs)- mournful, dismal, or gloomy, esp. in an affected, exaggerated, or unrelieved manner: lugubrious songs of lost love; sorrowful, melancholy
162. lyrical-expressing a poet’s inner feelings, emotional, full of images, song-like
163. malicious (mə-lĭsh'əs)- full of, characterized by, or showing malice; malevolent; spiteful: malicious gossip; deliberately harmful
164. matter-of-fact-accepting of conditions, not fanciful or emotional
165. melancholy(měl'ən-kŏl'ē)- a gloomy state of mind, esp. when habitual or prolonged; depression; sober thoughtfulness; pensiveness; Sadness or depression of the spirits; gloom; mournful
166. mirthful(mûrth'fəl)- joyous; gay; jolly: a mirthful laugh; full of gladness and gaiety
167. miserable-wretchedly unhappy, uneasy, or uncomfortable; forlorn, disconsolate, doleful, distressed
168. mock-heroic-imitating or burlesquing that which is heroic, as in manner, character, or action: mock-heroic dignity; of or pertaining to a form of satire in which trivial subjects, characters, and events are treated in the ceremonious manner and with the elevated language and elaborate devices characteristic of the heroic style
169. macabre (mə-kä'brə) muh-kah-bruh- gruesome and horrifying; ghastly; horrible; of, pertaining to, dealing with, or representing death, esp. its grimmer or uglier aspect.
170. maudlin (mawd-lin)- tearfully or weakly emotional; foolishly sentimental: a maudlin story of a little orphan and her lost dog. Effusively or tearfully sentimental
171. mocking- To treat with ridicule or contempt; deride; To express scorn or ridicule; jeer
172. mock-serious- of a pretended serious look or act
173. moralistic- Characterized by or displaying a concern with morality.; Marked by a narrow-minded morality; narrowly and conventionally moral
174. morose (mə-rōs')- gloomily or sullenly ill-humored, as a person or mood; moody, sour, sulky, melancholy
175. mournful- feeling or expressing sorrow or grief; sorrowful; sad
176. mysterious- full of, characterized by, or involving mystery; of obscure nature, meaning, origin, etc.; puzzling; inexplicable; secret, esoteric, occult, cryptic. Mysterious, inscrutable, mystical,obscure
177. mystified- to perplex (a person) by playing upon the person's credulity; bewilder purposely. fool, mislead, elude, puzzle
178. naïve- having or showing a lack of experience, judgment, or information; credulous; having or showing unaffected simplicity of nature or absence of artificiality; unsophisticated; ingenuous
179. nervous- highly excitable; unnaturally or acutely uneasy or apprehensive; fearful, timid, timorous
180. nostalgic - a wistful desire to return in thought or in fact to a former time in one's life, to one's home or homeland, or to one's family and friends; a sentimental yearning for the happiness of a former place or time: a nostalgia for his college days. A bittersweet longing for things, persons, or situations of the past
181. objective- not influenced by personal feelings, interpretations, or prejudice; based on facts; unbiased: an objective opinion; impartial, fair, impersonal, disinterested.
182. Obsequious- polite and obedient in order to gain something
183. ominous (ŏm'ə-nəs) - portending evil or harm; foreboding; threatening; inauspicious: an ominous bank of dark clouds; a bad omen; portentous, threatening, menacing, fateful
184. optimistic- disposed to take a favorable view of events or conditions and to expect the most favorable outcome
185. outspoken- uttered or expressed with frankness or without reserve: outspoken criticism; free or unreserved in speech
186. paradoxical- seemingly contradictory but nonetheless possibly true; "it is paradoxical that standing is more tiring than walking"
187. paranoid- Exhibiting or characterized by extreme and irrational fear or distrust of others: a paranoid suspicion that the phone might be bugged.
188. passionate- having, compelled by, or ruled by intense emotion or strong feeling; fervid: a passionate advocate of socialism; excitable, emotional, impulsive, zealous
189. pathetic- causing or evoking pity, sympathetic sadness, sorrow, etc.; pitiful; pitiable: a pathetic letter; a pathetic sight; affecting or moving the feelings
190. patriotic- Feeling, expressing, or inspired by love for one's country
191. patronizing- displaying or indicative of an offensively condescending manner: a patronizing greeting, accompanied by a gentle pat on the pack; to behave in an offensively condescending manner toward: a professor who patronizes his students.
192. peaceful- characterized by peace; free from war, strife, commotion, violence, or disorder: a peaceful reign; a peaceful demonstration; Peaceful, placid, serene, tranquil
193. pedantic- overly concerned with minute details or formalisms, esp. in teaching; didactic, doctrinaire; Characterized by a narrow, often ostentatious concern for book learning and formal rules: a pedantic attention to details
194. pensive- dreamily or wistfully thoughtful: a pensive mood; expressing or revealing thoughtfulness, usually marked by some sadness: meditative, reflective suggest quiet modes of apparent or real thought
195. pessimistic- pertaining to or characterized by pessimism; gloomy: a pessimistic outlook; despairing, hopeless
196. petty- of little or no importance or consequence: petty grievances; having or showing narrow ideas, interests
197. petulant (pěch'ə-lənt)- moved to or showing sudden, impatient irritation, esp. over some trifling annoyance: a petulant toss of the head. irritable, peevish, fretful, pettish, touchy; Unreasonably irritable or ill-tempered; peevish
198. pithy (pĭth'ē)- brief, forceful, and meaningful in expression; full of vigor, substance, or meaning; terse; forcible: a pithy observation; succinct, pointed, meaty, concise
199. pitiful- evoking or deserving pity; lamentable, deplorable, woeful, pathetic
200. playful- full of play or fun; sportive; frolicsome
201. poignant- full of play or fun; sportive; frolicsome; keen or strong in mental appeal: a subject of poignant interest; affecting or moving the emotions
202. pompous- characterized by an ostentatious display of dignity or importance; characterized by pomp, stately splendor, or magnificence; pretentious
203. pretentious- characterized by assumption of dignity or importance; making an exaggerated outward show; ostentatious
204. proud- having, proceeding from, or showing a high opinion of one's own dignity, importance, or superiority
205. provocative- tending or serving to provoke; inciting, stimulating, irritating, or vexing;
206. psychotic- Of, relating to, or affected by psychosis; mental derangement
207. qualmish (kwah-mish) - A sudden feeling of sickness, faintness, or nausea; A sudden disturbing feeling; An uneasy feeling about the propriety or rightness of a course of action
208. quizzical- odd, eccentric, amusing
209. rancorous [rang-ker-uhs] Bitter, long-lasting resentment; deep seated ill will
210. relaxed- not strict; easy; informal; Not rigorous or strict. without strain or anxiety
211. reflective- given to, marked by, or concerned with meditation or deliberation: contemplative, thoughtful
212. remorseful- feeling or expressing pain or sorrow for sins or offenses ; contrite, regretful, penitent
213. repugnant- distasteful, objectionable, or offensive; opposed or contrary, as in nature or character; making opposition; averse; antagonistic, adverse, hostile
214. repulsive-causing repugnance or aversion; tending to drive away or keep at a distance; cold; forbidding; loathsome, disgusting, offensive, distasteful
215. resigned-submissive or acquiescent (āk'wē-ěs'ənt)-willing to carry out orders or wishes of another
216. restrained-characterized by restraint; To hold back or keep in check; control; To deprive of freedom or liberty
217. reticent(rět'ĭ-sənt)- disposed to be silent or not to speak freely; reserved; taciturn, quiet, uncommunicative; reluctant or restrained; Inclined to keep one's thoughts, feelings, and personal affairs to oneself. Restrained or reserved in style.
218. reverent-feeling, exhibiting, or characterized by reverence; deeply respectful: feeling or showing profound respect or veneration
219. ribald (rib-uhld) -offensive in speech or gesture, scurrilous
220. ridiculing-slightly contemptuous banter, making fun of
221. romantic-fanciful; impractical; unrealistic; imbued with or dominated by idealism, a desire for adventure, chivalry, etc; of, pertaining to, or characteristic of a style of literature and art that subordinates form to content, encourages freedom of treatment, emphasizes imagination, emotion, and introspection, and often celebrates nature, the ordinary person, and freedom of the spirit; preoccupation with love
222. romanticized-to hold romantic notions, ideas; to think in a romantic way; to make romantic
223. sad-affected by unhappiness or grief; sorrowful or mournful; unhappy, despondent, disconsolate, discouraged, gloomy, downcast, downhearted, depressed, dejected, melancholy
224. sanguine/sanguineous (sāng'gwĭn)- cheerfully optimistic, hopeful, or confident: a sanguine disposition; sanguine expectations. having blood as the predominating humor and consequently being ruddy-faced, cheerful (reddish, ruddy) enthusiastic, buoyant, animated, lively, spirited
225. sarcastic-of, pertaining to, or characterized by sarcasm; biting, cutting, mordant, bitter, derisive, ironic, sardonic, cynical, sneering, caustic
226. sardonic-characterized by bitter or scornful derision; mocking; cynical; sneering: a sardonic grin; biting, mordant, contemptuous, scornfully and bitterly sarcastic
227. satiric-of, pertaining to, containing, or characterized by satire; exposing human folly to ridicule; often emphasizes the weakness more than the weak person, and usually implies moral judgment and corrective purpose; sardonic, ironical, taunting, cutting, mordant, biting, ridiculing to show weakness
228. saturnine(sāt'ər-nīn')- sluggish in temperament; gloomy; taciturn; Melancholy or sullen; Having or marked by a tendency to be bitter or sardonic
229. scared-filled with fear or terror; frightened; alarmed
230. scathing(skāthing)-bitterly severe, as a remark; harmful, injurious, or searing; to attack with severe criticism; excoriate.
231. scornful/scorn-full of scorn; derisive; contemptuous; Contempt or disdain felt toward a person or object considered despicable or unworthy
232. seductive-tending to seduce; enticing; beguiling; captivating:; Tending to seduce; alluring
233. selfish-devoted to or caring only for oneself; concerned primarily with one's own interests, benefits, welfare, etc., regardless of others; self-interested, self-seeking, egoistic; illiberal, parsimonious, stingy
234. sentimental-expressive of or appealing to sentiment, esp. the tender emotions and feelings, as love, pity, or nostalgia: a sentimental song. weakly emotional; mawkishly susceptible or tender; romantic, tender, nostalgic; maudlin, bathetic
235. serene-calm, peaceful, or tranquil; unruffled; undisturbed, imperturbable, unperturbed, composed
236. serious-of, showing, or characterized by deep thought; of grave or somber disposition, character, or manner; requiring thought, concentration, or application; sober, sedate, staid.
237. shallow-lacking depth; superficial; Lacking depth of intellect, emotion, or knowledge
238. shocking-causing intense surprise, disgust, horror; staggering, astounding, startling, appalling
239. silly-weak-minded or lacking good sense; stupid or foolish; absurd; ridiculous; irrational; witless, senseless, dull-witted, dim-witted.foolish. inane, asinine, nonsensical, preposterous
240. sincere-free of deceit, hypocrisy, or falseness; earnest; pure; unmixed; unadulterated; frank, candid, honest, open, guileless; unaffected
241. sinister-threatening or portending evil, harm, or trouble; ominous; bad, evil, base, or wicked; unfortunate; disastrous; unfavorable; inauspicious, portentous
242. skeptical-inclined to skepticism; having doubt; unbelieving
243. spiritual-of, pertaining to, or consisting of spirit; of or relating to the mind or intellect; of or pertaining to the spirit or soul
244. spiteful-of or pertaining to the spirit or soul; vengeful, mean, cruel, rancorous
245. solemn-grave, sober, or mirthless, as a person, the face, speech, tone, or mood; gravely or somberly impressive; causing serious thoughts or a grave mood; serious formality; marked or observed with religious rites; having a religious character
246. somber-gloomily dark; shadowy; dimly lighted; gloomy, depressing, or dismal; extremely serious; grave; lugubrious, mournful, doleful, melancholy.
247. stressful-full of stress or tension;
248. sullen-showing irritation or ill humor by a gloomy silence or reserve; persistently and silently ill-humored; morose; indicative of gloomy ill humor; See cross. 1, 2. See glum. 2. sulky, moody, sour, bad-tempered. 4. cheerless, clouded, overcast, somber, mournful, dark. 5. slow, stagnant
249. suspenseful-a state or condition of mental uncertainty or excitement, as in awaiting a decision or outcome, usually accompanied by a degree of apprehension or anxiety
250. suspicious-tending to cause or excite suspicion; questionable; dubious; doubtful; wary; mistrustful
251. sympathetic-characterized by, proceeding from, exhibiting, or feeling sympathy; sympathizing; compassionate; looking upon with favor; commiserating, kind, tender, affectionate
252. taunting-To reproach in a mocking, insulting, or contemptuous manner; scornful remark; jeer; derisive
253. tender-soft or delicate in substance; weak or delicate in constitution; easily moved to sympathy or compassion; kind; affectionate or loving; sentimental or amatory
254. tense-in a state of mental or nervous strain; high-strung; taut;
255. terse-neatly or effectively concise; brief and pithy,; abruptly concise; curt; brusque; succinct, compact, neat, concentrated
256. thoughtful -showing consideration for others; considerate; occupied with or given to thought; contemplative; meditative; reflective; attentive, solicitous
257. timorous(tĭm'ər-əs)- Full of apprehensiveness; timid; full of fear; fearful, cowardly
258. trepidation (trěp'ĭ-dā'shən) -tremulous fear, alarm, or agitation; perturbation; trembling, fright. 2. quivering, shaking
259. triumphant-having achieved victory or success; victorious; successful; exultant
260. turgid(tûr'jĭd)-inflated, overblown, or pompous; bombastic: turgid language; Excessively ornate or complex in style or language; grandiloquent: turgid prose.
261. uncaring-Devoid of concern or sympathy
262. unconcerned-not involved or interested; disinterested; untroubled, unperturbed, composed, carefree
263. uneasy-not easy in body or mind; uncomfortable; restless; disturbed; perturbed
264. unhappy-sad; miserable; wretched; unfavorable; inauspicious; sorrowful, downcast, cheerless, distressed
265. unsympathetic-lacking in sympathy and kindness; "unkindly acts" ; not agreeing with your tastes or expectations
266. upset-distressed; disturbed; unnerve, disconcert, flustered; agitated
267. urgent-compelling or requiring immediate action or attention; imperative; pressing;
268. vain-excessively proud of or concerned about one's own appearance, qualities, achievements, etc.; conceited; egotistical, self-complacent, vainglorious, proud, arrogant, overweening
269. vehement (vē'ə-mənt)-zealous; ardent; impassioned; characterized by rancor or anger; violent; strongly emotional; intense or passionate
270. vengeful-desiring or seeking vengeance; vindictive; revengeful; spiteful
271. vexation/vexed-the state of being vexed; irritation; annoyance; nuisance with petty items, bother, perplex, puzzle
272. vibrant-pulsating with vigor and energy; vigorous; energetic; vital; exciting; stimulating; lively
273. vitriolic [vi-tree-ol-ik]-very caustic; scathing; bitter
274. vituperative [vahy-too-per-uh-tiv)-Using, containing, or marked by harshly abusive censure; marked by harshly abusive criticism
275. vivacious-lively; animated; gay; spirited; brisk
276. whimsical-given to whimsy or fanciful notions; capricious; erratic; unpredictable
277. wistful-characterized by melancholy; longing; yearning; reflective, musing, meditative, forlorn
278. witty-possessing wit in speech or writing; amusingly clever in perception and expression
279. worried-concerned, apprehensive, uneasy, anxious
280. wrathful-very angry; ireful; full of wrath; irate, furious, raging, incensed, enraged
281. zealous-full of, characterized by, or due to zeal; ardently active, devoted, or diligent; enthusiastic, eager, fervid, fervent, intense, passionate
Often a change or shift in tone will be signaled by the following:
-Key words (e.g. but, yet, nevertheless, however, although)
-Punctuation (dashed, periods, colons)
-Stanza and paragraph divisions
-Changes in line and stanzas or sentence length.
More words to describe tone
upset/concerned
Provocative = Stimulating, exciting
Audacious = Daring, bold, insolent
Persuasive = Written to convince or win over
Condescending = patronizing, arrogant
Disdainful = Arrogant, lordly, superior, unsympathetic
Sarcastic = Snide, mocking, sharp taunting that wounds
Sardonic = Derisively mocking, scornful and cynical
Satiric = Ridiculing, ironic, mocking, farcical, exposing folly
Mock-heroic = Ridiculing a "hero"
Apprehensive = anxious, uneasy, worried
Ominous = Fateful, ill-boding, foreboding, dire
Urgent = imperative, critical, intensely necessary
Threatening = Menacing, intimidating
Horrific = Appalling, shocking, gruesome
Disappointed = Deceived, crestfallen, let down
Regretful =Contrite, apologetic, sorry (spans mere disappointment to a painful sense of dissatisfaction or self-reproach)
Remorseful = Moral anguish, penitent, contrite, rueful over past misdeeds
Somber = Bleak, depressing, dismal
Elegiac = Lamenting, poignant, funereal
upbeat/neutral
Amused = Entertaining in a light and playful manner (directing attention away from serious matters in an agreeable & pleasing manner)
Bantering = Teasing, joking, playful
Simpering = Smiley in a silly, self-conscious, often coy way
Whimsical = Capricious, unpredictable
Reverent = Venerating, worshipping
Reflective = Contemplative, meditative, introspective
Intimate = Personal, informal, private
Sympathetic = Compassionate, sensitive, to share or understand feelings
Factual = Certain, absolute, irrefutable, unbiased
Detached = Aloof, impartial, disconnected emotionally
Pedantic = Scholarly, making a show of knowledge
Tone Synonyms
Reverence
Awe veneration
Love
Affection cherish fondness admiration
tenderness sentiment
Romantic platonic adoration narcissism passion lust
Rapture ecstasy infatuated enamor compassion
Joy
exaltation zeal fervor ardor
elation jubilant buoyancy
Happiness
Glad pleased merry glee delight cheerful gay sanguine mirth
enjoy relish bliss
Calm
serene tranquil placid content
Hope
expect anticipate trust
Sadness
somber solemn melancholy sorrow lament
despair despondent regret dismal funereal saturnine dark
gloomy dejection grave grief morose
sullen woe bleak remorse forlorn disconsolate distress
agony anguish depression misery barren
empty pity
Anger
vehement enraged rage outrage antipathy
irritation indignant vexation incensed petulant irascible riled
bitter acrimony irate fury
wrath rancor
consternation hostility miffed choleric frustration exasperation futility umbrage gall bristle
Hate
vengeance detest abhorrence animosity enmity malice pique rancor
aversion loathing despise scorn
contempt disdain jealousy repugnance repulsion
spite disgust
Fear
timidity apprehension anxiety terror horror dismay agitation sinister alarm startle uneasy qualms
Angst trepidation intimidation spooky dread phobia apalled
Ironic tones
playful caustic biting witty acerbic
smirk paradoxical humorous flippant sneer
sarcastic cynical derision sardonic mocking
icy
Words to Describe the Reader’s Perception of the Speaker
humble imperious credulous sincere shallow
proud innocent inane bold austere
naive vain fatuous audacious triumphant
gullible insipid confident vivacious foolish
haughty insecure insolent
Adapted from materials from Ron Smith,
Roby [Texas] HS and Susan VanDruten