essay tones

An Author’s Guide to 22 Types of Tones in Writing

As an author, do you use different types of tones depending on the genre or audience? Do you have a distinctive tone readers can use to identify your writing, regardless of the subject matter? Or are you still trying to figure out how to leverage different types of tones in your writing to create a more compelling story?

Regardless of what you answered, this guide to the types of tones in writing is for you!

In this article, we’ll help you identify the different types of tones, provide examples, and give you tips on how to develop your own writing tone and decide which types of tones to use for your next book.

This Guide to the Types of Tones in Writing Will Cover:

What is a writing tone.

Have you ever had your writing misinterpreted? An everyday example is sending a text as a joke just to realize that the person thought you were serious.

It never feels good to have someone misinterpret what you are trying to say. And that’s just one reason why it is important to learn how to convey the right types of tones.

But before you begin – whether you’re writing a novel or updating your author website (or even a social media caption!), it’s important to know what is meant by “tone” in writing.

Writing tone is a type of literary device and the different types of tones refer to the attitude, mood, or emotional quality an author conveys through their choice of words, sentence structure, and overall style. A tone is like the author’s unique voice (or the voice they assign to their characters or narrator) that sets the emotional tone of the book and shapes how the reader perceives the overall story.

Whether formal, informal, serious, humorous, optimistic, or cynical, the different types of tones give context to the words, ultimately influencing how readers interpret and engage with the story and all the different characters in it.

In short, the author’s tone impacts the reader’s mood .

When establishing what types of tones you want to use, it’s important to be mindful of the genre you are writing for, the audience you are writing for, the different types of characters you want in the story, and the feelings you want your writing to evoke.

For example, a young adult fiction book , a children’s book, and a memoir would all have vastly different types of tones in the story.

The Difference Between Voice, Style, and Tone

Authors often confuse voice, style, and tone in writing. Though these all impact each other, they are different.

Voice is the distinct personality, beliefs, and expressions infused into the writing, and style is the author’s unique manner of expressing this personality via literary elements and specific word choices. Meanwhile, the tone is the emotional attitude conveyed to the reader.

It breaks down like this:

• Voice = what you write
• Style = the way you say it
• Tone = the mood created by what you say

In a physical conversation or written dialogue, the types of tones might be perceived in tangible (though not necessarily spoken) cues such as vocal pitch, facial movements, eye contact, stance, etc.

Should You Use Different Types of Tones in Writing?

Using different types of tones throughout the same book can be a powerful literary technique, as it adds depth, complexity, and variety to the narrative.

Just as life is multifaceted with various emotions and situations, a book can benefit from shifting the types of tones to better reflect the evolving themes, characters, and plot developments.

Using different types of tones in writing can help keep the reader engaged and intrigued, as well as enhance the overall emotional impact. However, it’s important to maintain some coherence and consistency, ensuring that the shifts in tone are purposeful and serve the narrative’s goals.

Abrupt or jarring changes in the types of tones might confuse or alienate the reader, so the key is to strike a balance that enhances the storytelling rather than detracts from it.

Using a narrative writing prompts generator is a great way to hone your writing skills – and can help you understand how to use different types of tones in writing. It will also give you practice with using multiple writing tones within one narrative.

So what are the different types of tones? Let’s discuss the most common writing tones that authors use.

22 Types Of Tones In Writing – And How to Use Them

Like emotions, the types of tones you can employ in your writing can be nearly endless. They span far and wide and can even vary with every character and scene. But here’s a rundown of the most common types of tones that authors utilize in their writing: 

1. Formal Tone

The formal tone is one of the types of tones that uses very proper grammar, longer sentence structure, and complex phrasing with few contractions.

A formal tone is usually objective and direct, cutting fluff or extra words. It can be interpreted as cold or emotionless or proper and polite, depending on the delivery and setting.

This tone is at home in academic, legal, medical, and professional settings.

Example of a formal tone: “Due to the lack of information received, it’s difficult to reach a decision on the best next steps to take. We will have to give a few more days to this matter.”

2. Informal Tone

Unlike formal writing, informal writing is one of the types of tones that is much more conversational. Think “writing like you talk” (or rather, how your character would talk).

While you should not throw typical spelling and grammar rules out the window, you can relax with some of the rules and use things like emojis, casual language, or current slang.

This tone works well when writing a memoir , young adult novel, or when writing dialogue .

Example of an informal tone: “Nah – I’ve got a ton of work to do, so I won’t be able to make it tonight. Maybe tomorrow if you’re still up for it?”

3. Friendly Tone

A friendly tone is one of the types of tones that is meant to convey a warm, familiar feeling and build rapport with the reader.

To convey a friendly tone in writing, you might use exclamation points, words that lean toward the positive side, casual salutations (hey, buddy!), and jests.

When writing your characters, think about creating inside jokes or thoughts between friends. A friendly tone is generally lighter in nature than other types of tones.

4. Sad Tone

It’s unlikely that you’ll use a sad tone throughout an entire book, but it could be the tone of a specific event, conversation, or even a character. It’s most often used to describe funerals, heartbreak, disappointment, the delivery of bad news, character flaws , inner conflicts, or depressing inner thoughts.

As humans, we all identify with being sad. To make your story more interesting or intense, you may want to choose other words that convey sadness or talk about things characters are doing (or not doing) to highlight their current state. A list of words includes sulk, mourn, lament, wistful, somber, tragic, dismal, etc.

5. Humorous Tone

Humor can be a hard tone to convey in writing, and it might be one of the harder types of tones for you to master with time.

You will want to pick jokes and lines that convey the humor you want, whether dark humor or friendly banter. If you are writing a fiction book, you might also want to mention gestures done by your characters to convey they are joking, such as smirking, laughing, or playfully rolling their eyes.

Example of a humorous tone: “The old man was about as charming as an eel, but when it came to cricket, he turned into a young boy again – leaping and yelling alongside the field!”

6. Joyful Tone

A joyful tone in writing is often full of unabashed enthusiasm and excitement. It often evokes feelings of playfulness, youth, and freedom.

You will want to focus on using happy words or expressing passion to convey a joyful tone. If you do pair it with actions, there should be plenty of smiling or excited movements – maybe even some frolicking, if you will.

7. Optimistic Tone

An optimistic tone is different from a joyful tone (although they are very similar types of tones) because it is projecting hope, joy and good feelings into the future. It’s less about a current state or emotion and more about a lasting philosophy or mindset.

This is living with rose-colored glasses. And your writing and characters should use exclamation points, positive phrases, and elude to happiness. Your characters may even be so optimistic that they take on some traits of toxic positivity.

Example of an optimistic tone: “I’m so certain you can get through this,” Sophie said with a reassuring smile.

8. Pessimistic Tone

A pessimistic tone is usually dismissive, negative, cautious and may feel frustrating or upsetting. As an author, you can achieve this negative tone through excessive questioning, doubtful language, and short, curt sentences. You want to project a negative view of a situation (past, present, or future) and a belief that things will not improve.

Pessimistic characters may call themselves realists, but they are usually looking for the bad in people or situations, calling it out to others.

Example of a pessimistic tone: “See? I told you it would fail. The whole campaign was built on empty promises. I can’t believe you really thought they could achieve all that.”

9. Aggressive Tone

An aggressive tone often uses strong, forceful, blunt, and threatening words and actions.

When authors are using this tone, they are often trying to prove a point in a harsh way. They will not use friendly words and will be bordering on an offensive tone.

10. Assertive Tone

Slightly less physical or offensive than an aggressive tone, an assertive tone in writing is still very direct. However, it does not imply violence or anger like some other types of tones.

Consider the difference between these examples: “Do you think you could be there by 6 p.m.?,” “Be there at 6 p.m.,” and “You better be there at 6 p.m., or else…”

One is friendly, one assertive, and one aggressive.

11. Curious Tone

This can be one of the most fun types of tones to use in writing – especially when writing a cozy mystery or children’s book. A curious tone in writing often feels youthful, naive, and enthusiastic.

You or the character wants to learn more about something and is intrigued by the subject matter. Stoking curiosity in your reader will get them invested in the book and story arc – you could do this by teasing future events or presenting a challenge or riddle they feel they can solve.

12. Serious Tone

A serious tone is used to signify importance and, often, a pivotal moment in a story (such as a difficult call to adventure or sacrifice that must be made). Effectively using a serious tone requires a bit more formal language, but it doesn’t require large words or emotional coldness. In fact, something can be very serious yet kind (like a doctor sharing bad news).

As an author, you leverage all caps to denote yelling and use words such as “solemn, intense, thoughtful, or weighty.” To really drive home the severity of a situation, you can describe the setting and the characters’ body language with a bit more detail.

13. Helpful Tone

A helpful tone can lean either formal or informal, but the essence of it is a desire to assist. Learning to convey a friendly, helpful tone without coming across as over-explaining is a fine balance. Though the latter is certainly a choice you could make as an author when writing a character (we’ve all met the condensing character ready to bestow upon you their “advice”).

In most instances, you will want to use friendly words and language to convey that you or your characters are trying to be helpful. That might include using extra enthusiasm, kind, encouraging words, and simplified explanations that help someone understand a concept or instructions.

Examples of using a helpful tone could be a nurturing mother, selfless caretaker, or kind teacher in fiction. In nonfiction, this is one of the best types of tones to use when writing a self-help book .

14. Compassionate Tone

A compassionate tone is used to convey sympathy, caring, and a level of understanding towards someone else and their feelings. Often mixed with a serious tone, the goal of compassionate writing is to make the reader feel sorry about a situation or highlight the love and care someone has toward a person, animal, or cause.

This one of the types of tones that is common in both fiction and nonfiction books .

Example of a compassionate tone: “The woman very carefully lifted the sick puppy out of the ditch and placed him in her passenger seat. In that moment, she resolved to do everything in her power to give him the life he deserved.”

15. Informative Tone

Like a helpful tone in writing, an informative tone aims to assist. But it skews a bit more formal, unbiased, and educational or academic. A lot of informative writing and language is void of emotion, opinions, or personal anecdotes (unless the person is an expert on the topic).

16. Tense Tone

Are you writing a scary story or a thriller? You’ll probably really rely on a tense tone in your writing.

Done correctly, a tense tone creates an atmosphere of apprehension and heightened emotional strain. You can do this by creating a build-up, adding some suspense, or implying something that hasn’t happened yet (and might not) with body language descriptions and short, curt lines.

Example of a tense tone:   “Did you hear that? I think someone’s following us,” she whispered, her voice trembling with unease.

17. Concerned Tone

A concerned tone should make someone feel another person’s love, worry, or apprehension, often reflecting the characters’ genuine interest in the well-being of others or themselves.

Use a concerned tone to deepen character relationships and readers’ relationships with your characters and the circumstances they face. This is one of the types of tones that is very effective at evoking empathy via dialogues, inner monologues, or narrative descriptions that reveal characters’ motivations , anxieties, inquiries, and considerations.

Example of a concerned tone: “I noticed you’ve been missing meals… is everything alright?” she inquired, her eyes reflecting a mix of care and worry.

18. Sarcastic Tone

Often used to mock people or situations, a sarcastic tone means continually saying one thing while implying the opposite. For some, this is a form of humor. For others, it’s a way to be ironic, critique someone or something, or express a pessimistic opinion.

As an author, you can use italics to emphasize specific words and can sprinkle in witty remarks that say one thing but hint at the opposite. This will add a playful zing to your prose or your characters’ personalities, highlight absurdities , and even provide social commentary.

19. Apologetic Tone

An apologetic tone is used in writing to acknowledge a character’s mistake (though it can also be used in nonfiction writing, like memoirs). It usually conveys self-awareness, humility, a desire for feedback or input, some level of regret, and perhaps even some self-deprecation. Sometimes, characters or dialogue can seek justification, hinting at their guilt.

Using words and phrases like “let me explain,” “unfortunately,” “forgive me,” and “regretfully,” are different ways to channel this tone.

Example of an apologetic tone: “As a young adult, I was always disrespectful to my parents. I made life harder for them despite everything they did for me. Looking back, I should have never taken them for granted.” 

20. Cynical Tone

A cynical tone embodies a skeptical and distrustful perspective. It may overlap or become a pessimistic or even a disapproving tone, but it is slightly different than those types of tones.

Unlike other types of tones, cynicism requires undertones of distrust, a belief in others’ selfish motives, or some insincerity of individuals or systems. It’s very much about how something is said – and readers must look beyond the words on the page.

This tone can be used in writing to highlight the darker aspects of human behavior and societal dynamics, challenging the conventional or optimistic views of a situation.

21. Disapproving Tone

A disapproving tone conveys a critical stance and skepticism toward a person, idea, action, belief or argument, often implying disagreement or disbelief through carefully chosen words and expressions.

In fiction and nonfiction books, this tone can subtly challenge the validity of a concept or perspective while encouraging readers to question and analyze the subject matter more closely. A great tool to employ when you are challenging readers to change behaviors or beliefs. One final thing to note about a disapproving tone is that it expresses something is not okay (in the opinion of the author or character), without necessarily being aggressive or loud. 

Example of a disapproving tone: “Kyle’s dad glanced over at him as he tiptoed into the house at 3am. “There’s no justification for why you’ve just come home now”, Kyle’s dad uttered as he walked up the stairs. “

21. Nostalgic Tone

A nostalgic tone in writing carries a bittersweet longing for the past, evoking emotions tied to cherished memories and experiences that have shaped the author’s or character’s journey. It often infuses the narrative with a wistful and reflective quality, inviting readers to empathize with the sentimentality of what has been and might never be again.

Nostalgic writing can be sad, happy, or bittersweet – it depends on the emotion you want readers to feel.

“Back when the air was warm and the lake shimmered under the stars, life felt like a different kind of adventure,” she reminisced, a wistful smile in her voice.

Tips for Defining and Developing Tones in Your Writing

As an author, you may get asked the question: “What is the tone of your story? “

If you’ve just started outlining or writing your book, you might be asking yourself this question. And it’s important to define. Your tone will help you identify your book positioning , establish the setting of your story , and generate a book title . It can also inspire marketing creatives and book cover ideas .

So let’s look at some ways you can find the right tone and intentionally use different types of tones in your writing to create interest and contrast between the characters in your story.

Remember Your Audience

The first step is to remember your target audience. Who are you talking to, and what do you want them to feel?

Most readers are loyal to specific genres of fiction – some examples being dystopian, dark romance , mystery, or horror stories . They often already know what mood they want to be in when picking up a book. It’s a way for them to escape reality – and can be a bit jarring if you throw them into humorous prose if they were looking for serious suspense.

That being said, you can still use different types of tones in writing. A lighthearted detective could be a fun addition to an otherwise somber book. But you’ll want to keep the larger tone of your book aligned with the genre and story.

Don’t be Afraid of Detail and Description

Setting a specific tone requires you to play on the character personality types and create a clear picture in the mind of readers. The way to do this is to go bold with your descriptive phrases and words. 

If your character is feeling depressed and hopeless, their inner dialogue may be critical of their surroundings by describing moldy walls and dirty floors. Meanwhile, if your character is hopeful about their new home, you’ll want to emphasize the bright colors and vibrant flowers. 

Lead into your thesaurus for this one. Go beyond words like “sad” when trying to achieve a specific tone in writing. You can also use our free tool to enhance your writing with AI .

Be Picky with Your Choice of Words

As we mentioned earlier, your tone in writing often reflects your attitude (or your characters’ attitudes) towards something. So it’s important that you’re intentional and deliberate in your writing. Choose words for the purpose of adding (or taking away!) value to a subject. 

Here’s an example of how tone can change with your choice of words: 

Option 1: “Why would you do that to me? I thought we were friends.”

Option 2: “I should have known you would do this, despite everything.”  

The first line is a confused tone, signifying to the reader that the character is clueless and emotionally distressed. 

The second line is part of the same dialogue, but the words of choice depict a disappointed tone, reflecting the character’s feeling of being betrayed once again. 

Ready to Master the Types of Tones?

Before you can intentionally use different tones in writing, you must think about how you want your character or book to be perceived.

Are they witty or are they easily fooled? Are they hopeful in calamities or more pessimistic?

Your writing tones will help you relay the right characteristics. 

As we’ve seen, there are many types of tones that you can leverage as an author. While you’re not bound to use just one tone, consistency can help your readers build a clearer image of your character and subject matter. 

If you’re still not sure how to use writing tones, you can hire a book writing coach or reach out to the team at selfpublishing.com for advice.

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How to Describe Tone in Writing: 300 Examples You Can Use

I love studying the tone of great writers — but how do you describe it?

Here’s a quick summary of how to describe tone in writing:

Describe tone in writing by identifying emotional overtones, word choices, punctuation, and sentence structure. Tone reflects the author’s attitude and can be formal, sarcastic, optimistic, or serious. Use specific vocabulary to pinpoint the tone.

For a deep dive into 20 ways and 300 examples, read the rest of this guide.

What Is Tone in Writing?

Table of Contents

Tone in writing refers to the attitude or emotional atmosphere conveyed by the words an author chooses.

It’s how you speak to your readers through the text.

Tone can be formal, informal, intimate, solemn, playful, serious, or ironic.

The tone you choose greatly affects how your message is received and interpreted.

By mastering tone, writers can enhance their ability to connect with their audience, setting the mood and influencing how readers feel and react.

Different Types of Tone in Writing

Understanding different types of tone can help you better express yourself and resonate with your audience.

Here’s a simple chart to categorize common tones in writing:

• Formal : Often used in academic or professional settings.
• Informal : Casual, conversational style used among friends.
• Optimistic : Positive and hopeful tone.
• Pessimistic : Negative and gloomy outlook.
• Sarcastic : Cutting or ironic, often humorous.
• Serious : No-nonsense and straightforward.
• Playful : Light-hearted and fun.
• Inspirational : Motivational and uplifting.

Each type serves different purposes and can be employed to enhance communication in various contexts.

Here is a good video about how to figure out the type of tone so that you can describe it:

20 Ways to Describe Tone in Writing

Here are twenty detailed methods to help you describe the tone of a piece of writing. Each approach comes with an explanation and examples to guide you.

1. Identify Emotional Overtones

Look for emotional cues in the writing to determine its tone.

Is it joyful, fearful, angry, or sad? For instance, a joyful tone might include words like “celebration,” “happiness,” and “excited.”

• “The sun beamed down gloriously, it was a perfect day for a picnic.”
• “The air was thick with tension during the meeting.”
• “She felt a surge of joy seeing her friend.”
• “His voice trembled with barely contained anger.”
• “A sadness hung over the town after the news.”
• “Fear gripped her as she entered the dark room.”
• “The excitement was palpable as the concert started.”
• “A calm tranquility settled over the beach at sunset.”
• “Disgust was evident in his expression.”
• “Anticipation filled the room as the announcement began.”

2. Consider the Writer’s Choice of Words

Word choice is a direct indicator of tone.

Formal vocabulary suggests a serious tone, while slang is more informal and relaxed.

• “The findings of the study are remarkable” versus “This stuff is mind-blowing!”
• “The catastrophe devastated the region” vs. “The mishap inconvenienced the region.”
• “Achieved” vs. “managed to get.”
• “Request” vs. “ask.”
• “Commence” vs. “start.”
• “Peruse” vs. “read.”
• “Terminate” vs. “end.”
• “Constructed” vs. “built.”
• “Adore” vs. “really like.”
• “Inquire” vs. “ask.”

3. Analyze the Punctuation

Punctuation can influence tone by controlling the flow of the text.

Exclamation points, for example, can create a tone of excitement or urgency.

• “Wait! I can’t believe this!”
• “Come here—now!”
• “Is that so…?”
• “We’re going out; she’s staying home.”
• “He left the room… and then returned.”
• “Wait! What are you doing?”
• “No… this can’t be happening.”
• “She whispered, ‘are you awake?'”
• “Hurry up!”
• “Yes, indeed.”

4. Look at Sentence Structure

Complex sentences often convey a formal or serious tone, while simple sentences might suggest a straightforward or casual tone.

• “Despite the rain, the ceremony proceeded as scheduled.”
• “Having considered all options, he made his decision.”
• “Rain pattered against the window.”
• “Where are you going? Why? How?”
• “They danced under the stars; the night was young.”
• “Quickly, silently, he disappeared into the night.”
• “The storm raged throughout the night.”
• “She pondered over the old letters, each a window into the past.”
• “Lights flashed. Sirens wailed. Chaos ensued.”
• “He wondered if things would ever be the same.”

5. Reflect on the Purpose

The purpose of the text—whether to inform, persuade, entertain, or describe—plays a significant role in setting the tone.

• “Our goal today is to ensure everyone leaves with a clear understanding of their tasks.”
• “The purpose of this writing is to inform you about changes.”
• “This blog aims to entertain with stories from my travels.”
• “Our main goal is to persuade you to adopt more sustainable practices.”
• “The manual describes how to set up your device.”
• “This article explores the history of the Renaissance.”
• “The script provides characters with depth and motivation.”
• “The review criticizes the lack of depth in the movie plot.”
• “The proposal outlines the benefits of a new project.”
• “The diary entry reflects personal thoughts and feelings.”

6. Assess the Context

The context in which the writing appears can influence its tone.

A business proposal will likely have a different tone than a personal email.

• “We appreciate your proposal and look forward to discussing it further.”
• “In the context of a wedding, the speech was heartfelt.”
• “During a crisis, the leader’s statement was reassuring.”
• “In a casual blog post, the tone was friendly and inviting.”
• “In an academic paper, the tone was formal and precise.”
• “In a legal document, the tone was strict and factual.”
• “In an advertisement, the tone was persuasive and enthusiastic.”
• “In a eulogy, the tone was respectful and somber.”
• “In a sports commentary, the tone was excited and energetic.”
• “In a product review, the tone was critical and detailed.”

7. Determine the Level of Formality

The level of formality can directly impact the tone, affecting how readers perceive the text.

• “I am writing to formally request your presence” versus “Hey, wanna hang out?”
• “Respectfully submitted” vs. “Here you go.”
• “We regret to inform you” vs. “Sorry, but no.”
• “Thank you for your consideration” vs. “Thanks a bunch!”
• “It is our pleasure to” vs. “We’re thrilled to.”
• “As per your request” vs. “Like you asked.”
• “We are pleased to announce” vs. “Guess what!”
• “Please be advised” vs. “Just a heads up.”
• “Thank you for your understanding” vs. “Thanks for getting it.”
• “We await your reply” vs. “Let us know.”

8. Recognize Irony

Irony often signals a complex, humorous, or critical tone.

It involves stating the opposite of what is meant to convey a particular point.

• “Great! Another flat tire, just what I needed today.”
• “Just what I needed on my payday—more bills!”
• “How wonderful, another meeting that could have been an email.”
• “Oh great, the elevator’s broken again—just perfect when I’m late!”
• “What a fantastic time for my car to break down!”
• “Ah, nothing like a cold coffee to start your day.”
• “Sure, I love working weekends.”
• “What a pleasure to find out I’m being audited.”
• “I was hoping for more work over the holidays.”
• “This is exactly what I wanted to do today—wait in line for hours!”

9. Note the Author’s Attitude

The author’s attitude towards the subject can reveal the tone.

Is the author enthusiastic, skeptical, or indifferent?

• “This novel captures the essence of modern society in a way no other has managed to.”
• “She clearly adored her subject, her descriptions filled with affection.”
• “His disdain for the policy was evident in his critical analysis.”
• “The author’s excitement about the new discovery bubbled through the text.”
• “Her skepticism is clear when discussing the theory.”
• “You can sense his pride in the craftsmanship of the product.”
• “Her frustration with the process was obvious.”
• “The writer’s curiosity shines through in his detailed questions.”
• “His amusement at the situation is contagious.”
• “You can feel her passion for environmental issues in her persuasive arguments.”

10. Listen to the Rhythm

The rhythm of the writing can also contribute to its tone.

A rhythmic, poetic style might convey beauty and solemnity, whereas a choppy rhythm could suggest tension or excitement.

• “The river, reflective and serene, whispered secrets of the ancient woods.”
• “The words danced gracefully across the page, each line flowing into the next.”
• “His staccato sentences conveyed the urgency of the situation.”
• “The smooth, slow rhythm of her speech calmed the crowd.”
• “Rapid-fire questions gave the debate a lively pace.”
• “The steady cadence of the poem provided a comforting stability.”
• “Her choppy narrative captured the tumultuous nature of her journey.”
• “The quick bursts of dialogue kept the scene dynamic and engaging.”
• “Long, flowing sentences evoked a dreamy, reflective atmosphere.”
• “The abrupt pauses in his speech emphasized his hesitation.”

11. Use Metaphors and Similes

Metaphors and similes can dramatically shape the tone by comparing elements to evoke certain feelings or images.

• “Her smile was as bright as the sun on a gloomy day.”
• “The office was a beehive of activity.”
• “Her eyes were stars shining in the dark.”
• “His words were a soothing balm on her worries.”
• “The city was a jungle, bustling and wild.”
• “Their love was a delicate flower—beautiful but fragile.”
• “He was a rock in turbulent waters.”
• “Her laughter was music to his ears.”
• “The night was a thick blanket over the city.”
• “His mind was a maze, complex and confusing.”

12. Observe the Theme

Themes can influence the tone.

A dark theme might lead to a somber tone, while a lighthearted theme could create a playful or joyful tone.

• “Despite the looming apocalypse, they shared a laugh over the absurdity of worrying about overdue library books.”
• “The theme of redemption colored the novel’s hopeful tone.”
• “A theme of betrayal created a tense atmosphere throughout the story.”
• “Adventure themes lent an exciting and energetic tone to his writing.”
• “Themes of love and loss wove a melancholic tone through her poetry.”
• “The theme of freedom rang through the speech, uplifting and inspiring.”
• “Themes of survival gave the account a gritty, resilient tone.”
• “A focus on childhood innocence imbued the narrative with a nostalgic tone.”
• “Themes of corruption imbued the article with a sinister tone.”
• “The celebratory theme made the tone of the event joyous and vibrant.”

13. Examine the Imagery

Imagery deeply affects the tone by painting mental pictures that align with the emotional setting of the text.

• “The gloomy house, with its boarded windows and overgrown path, seemed to creak with sadness.”
• “The wilting flowers portrayed a tone of decay and neglect.”
• “Sunlight pouring through the windows filled the room with a tone of warmth and welcome.”
• “Dark clouds looming overhead set a foreboding tone.”
• “The imagery of bustling streets painted a tone of vibrant city life.”
• “Desolate landscapes evoked a tone of isolation and abandonment.”
• “Sparkling rivers and lush greenery created a tone of tranquility.”
• “Images of crowded marketplaces conveyed a tone of chaos and energy.”
• “The stark, barren fields gave a tone of stark simplicity.”
• “Vivid sunsets created a tone of peaceful closure.”

14. Consider the Audience

The intended audience influences tone.

Writing for professionals often has a formal tone, while writing for friends might be more casual and humorous.

• “Esteemed colleagues, let us deliberate on this matter with the seriousness it warrants.”
• “For children, the tone was whimsical and enchanting.”
• “For tech enthusiasts, the tone was informative and cutting-edge.”
• “For history buffs, the tone was detailed and reverential.”
• “For a young adult audience, the tone was dynamic and empathetic.”
• “For professionals in the field, the tone was technical and sophisticated.”
• “For casual readers, the tone was light and easy-going.”
• “For activists, the tone was urgent and mobilizing.”
• “For academics, the tone was analytical and dense.”
• “For a general audience, the tone was broad and inclusive.”

15. Detect Sarcasm

Sarcasm can shift the tone dramatically, often adding a layer of humor or criticism that isn’t overtly stated.

• “Oh, I just love getting stuck in traffic on my way home!”
• “Thanks for the update, I would never have guessed.”
• “Right, because I have all the time in the world for this.”
• “Sure, this tiny umbrella will totally keep us dry in this storm.”
• “Oh, I just love getting interrupted.”
• “Great, another software update that fixes nothing.”
• “Perfect, another rerun of my least favorite show.”
• “Yeah, because what we need is more rain.”
• “Fantastic, just what I wanted to do on my day off—clean.”
• “Oh, wonderful, another day of unending meetings.”

16. Assess the Author’s Bias

An author’s personal biases can color the tone, revealing a subjective rather than an objective tone.

• “Given our superior understanding, it is clear that our approach is the only viable option.”
• “His advocacy for green technologies was evident throughout the report.”
• “Her bias against traditional methods was clear in her critique.”
• “The writer’s preference for minimalist design came through in his descriptions.”
• “Her bias for vintage fashion colored her review of the fashion show.”
• “The historian’s bias towards particular figures was apparent in the narrative.”
• “His fondness for the underdog story biased his sports commentary.”
• “Her inclination toward organic products was manifest in her enthusiastic endorsements.”
• “The critic’s bias against modern art was evident in his dismissive comments.”
• “Her favoritism towards certain authors shaped the tone of her literary analysis.”

17. Identify the Setting

The setting can provide clues to the tone, especially in narrative writing.

A bustling city setting might convey excitement or chaos, while a secluded mountain might evoke tranquility or isolation.

• “The bustling streets of New York buzz with an energy unmatched by any other city.”
• “The bustling urban environment set a tone of fast-paced excitement.”
• “The quiet countryside created a serene, peaceful tone.”
• “The chaotic war zone conveyed a tone of desperation and survival.”
• “The luxurious mansion set a tone of opulence and grandeur.”
• “The cramped office space gave a tone of restriction and monotony.”
• “The festive holiday market brought a tone of joy and celebration.”
• “The ancient ruins evoked a tone of mystery and history.”
• “The modern laboratory conveyed a tone of innovation and precision.”
• “The isolated cabin in the woods provided a tone of solitude and introspection.”

18. Reflect on the Syntax

The arrangement of words and phrases in a sentence can affect the tone.

Repetitive, terse sentences might convey urgency or simplicity.

• “Fire! Run! Now!”
• “The orderly list format presented a clear, structured tone.”
• “Frequent use of passive voice gave the report a detached tone.”
• “Repetitive, rhythmic phrases created a hypnotic tone.”
• “Abrupt, short sentences conveyed a brisk, to-the-point tone.”
• “Elaborate, ornate language set a tone of sophistication and grandeur.”
• “Sparse use of adjectives gave a blunt, no-frills tone.”
• “The casual, conversational syntax created a relaxed, informal tone.”
• “Legal jargon contributed to a formal, authoritative tone.”
• “The poetic use of enjambment conveyed a flowing, continuous tone.”

19. Interpret the Connotations

Words carry connotations that influence tone.

Words with positive connotations enhance a positive tone, while those with negative connotations do the opposite.

• “The victory was a testament to their relentless spirit.”
• “Words like ‘catastrophe’ and ‘devastation’ added a grim tone.”
• “Using ‘blissful’ and ‘joyous’ contributed to an uplifting tone.”
• “Terms like ‘cutting-edge’ and ‘innovative’ gave a progressive tone.”
• “Describing the event as a ‘gala’ instead of a ‘party’ added an upscale tone.”
• “Using ‘quaint’ instead of ‘old’ conveyed a charming tone.”
• “The choice of ‘alleged’ added a tone of skepticism.”
• “Words like ‘pioneering’ and ‘trailblazing’ provided a tone of leadership and adventure.”
• “Describing someone as ‘youthful’ instead of ‘young’ added a positive tone.”
• “Using ‘meticulous’ instead of ‘picky’ conveyed a tone of careful attention to detail.”

20. Analyze Dialogue

In narrative writing, dialogue can reveal tone through the characters’ word choices and speech patterns.

• “Could you be any more careless?” she snapped, frustration clear in her tone.
• “Could you, like, not?” she quipped, her tone casual but pointed.”
• “He bellowed, ‘Get out!’ showing his explosive anger.”
• “Why must you always do this?” she asked, her tone weary and resigned.”
• “Can we talk about this later?” he suggested, his tone suggesting avoidance.”
• “‘I couldn’t be prouder,’ she beamed, her tone full of warmth and pride.”
• “He muttered under his breath, his tone secretive and conspiratorial.”
• “‘Absolutely not!’ she declared, her tone resolute and firm.”
• “‘Please, tell me more,’ he insisted, his tone eager and interested.”
• “‘This is just perfect,’ she drawled sarcastically, her tone dripping with irony.”

50 Best Words to Describe Tone

• Inspirational
• Lighthearted
• Melancholic
• Pessimistic
• Exasperated

50 Best Phrases to Describe Tone

• Air of solemnity
• Biting sarcasm
• Calm and collected
• Deeply cynical
• Effortlessly witty
• Fiercely passionate
• Gently mocking
• Highly formal
• Incredibly somber
• Joyfully optimistic
• Keenly perceptive
• Light and playful
• Morose and gloomy
• Notably sincere
• Overwhelmingly pessimistic
• Pensively quiet
• Quietly contemplative
• Richly descriptive
• Slightly amused
• Taut with tension
• Unabashedly joyful
• Vividly imaginative
• Warmly reassuring
• Zealously enthusiastic
• Excitedly optimistic
• Coldly impersonal
• Dryly humorous
• Eagerly anticipatory
• Frustratingly vague
• Guardedly optimistic
• Hilariously ironic
• Intensely serious
• Jarringly blunt
• Kindly gentle
• Lazily drawn-out
• Mockingly dismissive
• Nervously excited
• Oddly detached
• Politely formal
• Quietly assertive
• Roughly gruff
• Sweetly sincere
• Tensely suspenseful
• Unusually quiet
• Vividly descriptive
• Wistfully nostalgic
• Exasperatingly slow
• Yearningly hopeful
• Zestfully lively
• Casually sarcastic

3 Full Paragraph Examples of Describing Tone in Writing

Let’s look at full paragraphs examples of how to describe tone in writing.

Example 1: Optimistic Tone

In her latest blog post, Maria writes with an infectious optimism that leaps off the page. Her words are bathed in hope and possibility, painting a picture of a future brimming with potential. Sentences like, “Together, we can overcome any obstacle,” resonate with a can-do spirit that encourages and uplifts her readers.

Example 2: Sarcastic Tone

John’s article on office etiquette drips with sarcasm. From his mockingly polite ‘thank yous’ to his biting commentary on ‘the joys of open-plan offices,’ his tone skewers the absurdities of corporate life. His clever use of ironic expressions exposes the underlying frustrations many workers feel, providing both humor and insight.

Example 3: Solemn Tone

In her tribute to a fallen friend, Claire’s words carry a heavy solemnity. Her reflective, measured sentences convey deep respect and profound loss. Phrases like, “We shall carry your legacy forward,” echo with a reverent somberness, fitting for honoring a life that made a lasting impact. The careful choice of somber adjectives and the slow cadence of her writing allow readers to feel the weight of her grief and the depth of her admiration.

Here is a good video about how to

Final Thoughts: How to Describe Tone in Writing

It’s been a joy exploring the nuances of tone with you. Remember, the right tone can truly bring your writing to life.

Keep playing with words and see what unfolds.

Read This Next:

• What Is Writing Style? (Easy Guide for Beginners)
• What Makes Stephen King’s Writing So Good? (11 Reasons)
• How To Write Like Dean Koontz (24 Best Tips Explained)
• What Is A Lens In Writing? (The Ultimate Guide)
• What Is a Summary In Writing? (Explained + 40 Examples)

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• Writing Tips

Types of Tones in Writing

5-minute read

• 27th November 2022

There are as many tones in writing as there are human emotions. The differences between these tones are the context, syntax , and diction that authors employ to cultivate personalities and emotions in characters or to appeal to their readers.

For example:

These two sentences have the same meaning, but they use different tones. The first is more informal and casual, while the second is more formal.

Generally, there are three categories of tones in writing: positive, negative, and neutral. Within these categories are varying intensities of emotion that writers may want to evoke. For example, to create a calming tone (positive), a writer may use words such as “quite,” “peaceful,” or “tranquil.” However, to create a playful tone (also positive, but more intense than calm), a writer may use “cheerful,” “spirited,” or “mischievous.”

Below, you’ll find five tones with examples and explanations to help you with your writing.

A formal tone may be used in many contexts, such as business copy, academic writing, email correspondence, or giving a speech. To achieve a formal tone, avoid the following:

●  First (“I”, “me”, “my,” “we,” etc.) and second (“you”) person pronouns

●  Contractions (e.g., “can’t,” “I’d,” “that’s,”)

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●  Colloquialisms and slang

●  Overly simplified sentences

●  Abbreviations, acronyms , and non-standard spellings of words

Ultimately, a formal tone aims to be thorough, direct, and respectful. Let’s look at a couple of examples:

Here’s an example of a formal business email . Keep in mind that context plays a crucial role in all writing. So, for this context, it’s appropriate to use first and second person pronouns because this is correspondence between two people.

An informal tone is exactly the opposite of formal. It’s used in everyday language. In writing, it may be used in dialogue between characters, narration, texts, social media posts, or emails between friends and colleagues.

Let’s look at how the earlier formal examples can be written as informal:

In these examples, the opposite of our above list to accomplish formal writing is done to create an informal tone, such as using abbreviations and contractions.

Here’s how we can make the formal email informal:

The overall language in this email is vastly different from the opening marks (“Hey” vs. “Dear XXX”) to the vocabulary (e.g., “discuss” vs. “talk about” or “we did not receive a response” vs. “we never heard back”) and the sign off (“Regards” vs. “Sent from my iPhone”).

A writer can use an optimistic tone using words like “bright,” “encouraging,” “promising,” or “upbeat.” An optimistic tone may be used in scenes of tragedy or despair by characters who usually look on the bright side.

Let’s look at an example:

In this example, we can feel an optimistic tone from the narrator through language such as “we have succeeded,” “hope,” “shall conquer,” and “must prevail.” Even without reading the book, you can sense that some kind of tragedy has occurred, but through the use of “shall” (looking toward the future) and positive vocabulary, the author employs an optimistic tone.

A friendly tone can be used with words like “warm,” “genial,” “affectionate,” or “sweet.” Let’s look at an example of a friendly tone.

From this example, we sense a friendly tone from the author’s choice of words and the general context set. For example, vocabulary such as “smile,” “natural,” and “charming” create a friendly tone. From the context, we sense a friendly mood from the interactions between friends; for example, “gently mussed Sumire’s already tousled hair.”

A serious tone is not joking or playful. It may be conveyed through words like “stern,” “dark,” “sober,” or “grave.” You may find a serious tone in books or materials that cover sensitive or tough topics, such as racial issues, prejudice, or mental health. Overall, a serious tone may be used to emphasize something important or create suspense.

Here’s an example using a serious tone from Time :

The dominant strategy used in this example (and many news articles) to create a serious tone is the use of figures and comparative language. For example, “increase by about 20%,” “by far the biggest jump recorded in the 37-year history of the report,” and “four-decade high.” This language emphasizes the seriousness of the topic to its readers.

Here’s an example of a serious tone used to create suspense:

In this example, the tone becomes serious because the character is at a pivotal moment. Sarah must make a decision that will clearly change the course of the narrative from this point on. Language like “she knew,” “tell the truth,” and “confess” emphasize the seriousness of the situation and the internal conflict the character is having.

An assertive tone can convey ambition, confidence, and boldness. Alternatively, it can also come across as aggressive , pushy, and militant if the writer isn’t careful. An assertive tone is usually used in business and academic writing because these types of writers need to convey a sense of authority on the topic they’re writing on.

Here are some assertive tone examples for a business context:

Using strong language (“I am confident”), statements vs. questions (e.g., “We will have to find another time to meet” vs. “Are you available for another time?”), and imperatives (“Pay attention”) can create a strong and assertive business tone.

Here are some assertive tone examples for an academic context:

The difference in vocabulary in these examples are what set them apart as assertive or weak statements. In academic writing, authors should be firm and confident in their findings (or lack thereof in some cases).

Employing the appropriate tone in your writing can make the difference in whether you reach a business agreement with a potential client, evoke emotion from your reader, or have your scholarly article accepted for publication.

If you’re struggling to maintain an appropriate tone in your writing, we can help. We’ll even proofread your first 500 words for free!

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Understanding Tone: 18 Examples of Tone Words in Writing

Written by MasterClass

Last updated: Jun 7, 2021 • 4 min read

Of all the literary elements that go into a work of fiction—subject matter, story, character, setting, figurative language, literary devices , and more—tone may be the hardest to concretely define. Yet in fiction, an author’s tone is one of the most defining characteristics that sets one book apart from another. To fully understand how literary work is defined by tone, it’s essential to first understand the actual definition of tone.

• Writing & Editing

12 Different Types of Tones in Writing with Examples

If you want your writing to be as multifaceted and engrossing as possible, it is important that you know how to efficiently use tones. What is tone, though? What makes it so important to the writing process? How do you actually use tone in your writing? This article will answer those questions and so much more.

What is Tone in Writing?

It is the way a writer uses words to convey non-verbal observations about specific subjects. By using specific tones and tone words in your manuscripts and poems, you will be able to convey facts, emotions, and concepts more effectively.

What Is the Importance of Tone in Writing?

Writing tone is very important because it is one of the most effective ways to convey emotion and context to your writing. Tones are a bit tricky to use, though. If you don’t use the right tone, your readers might misunderstand your intent and have a negative perception of you and your writing.

How to Develop Your Writing Tone?

If you want to effectively develop the tone in your writing, you should be willing to experiment with the types of tone. The more you practice with writing tones, the better your writing style will be.

Before you start using specific tones in your writing, it always helps to know which tone is best to use. Below are the 12 most common tones: 

• Pessimistic
• Encouraging
• Cooperative
• Inspirational

It is also important to know the difference between voice and tone. The key difference between voice and tone is that the voice is the unique point of view and choice of words that the author uses in his or her work. The tone on the other hand is the attitude conveyed through the author’s writing.

If you want your readers to be emotionally invested in your writing, it is a good idea to utilize a sad tone in your writing. Sadness is a core emotional state for most people.

We feel sad whenever something unfortunate happens to us or someone close to us. We could also feel sad whenever we empathize with someone.

This person does not need to be close to us either. When you use a sad tone in your writing, your main goal should be to make the reader more sympathetic to your main character.

This empathy will keep them interested in the story.

“The pleasure of remembering had been taken from me, because there was no longer anyone to remember with. It felt like losing your co-rememberer meant losing the memory itself. As if the things we’d done were less real and important than they had been hours before.” -John Green, The Fault In Our Stars

“Why do people have to be this lonely? What’s the point of it all? Millions of people in this world, all of them yearning, looking to others to satisfy them, yet isolating themselves. Why? Was the earth put here just to nourish human loneliness?” -Haruki Murakami, Sputnik Sweetheart

“Tonight I can write the saddest lines. I loved her, and sometimes she loved me too.” -Pablo Neruda, Twenty Love Poems and a Song of Despair

Horror is all about surprise and fear. When you use a horror-filled tone, your main intent should be to shock your readers to the core.

Give them a fearful situation that they will have to confront.

“Deep into that darkness peering, long I stood there, wondering, fearing, doubting, dreaming dreams no mortal ever dared to dream before.” -Edgar Allan Poe, The Raven

“Eddie discovered one of his childhood's great truths. Grownups are the real monsters, he thought.” -Stephen King, It

“Blood is really warm, it’s like drinking hot chocolate but with more screaming.” -Ryan Mecum, Zombie Haiku: Good Poetry for Your...Brains

3. Pessimistic

Being pessimistic is a state of mind wherein you expect the worst to happen. This does not really show the reality of the situation and is more like a mindset.

“All religion, my friend, is simply evolved out of fraud, fear, greed, imagination, and poetry.” -Edgar Allan Poe

“We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars.” -Oscar Wilde, Lady Windermere's Fan

“We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorns have roses.” -Alphonse Karr, A Tour Round My Garden

4. Humorous

This tone is by far one of the most useful tones because it allows you to draw your readers into the story. It is a very multifaceted tone.

It not only makes your readers laugh, but it also lightens the overall mood of your writing.

“You mistake me, my dear. I have a high respect for your nerves. They are my old friends. I have heard you mention them with consideration these twenty years at least.” -Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice

“Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the universe.” -Albert Einstein

“Never put off till tomorrow what may be done day after tomorrow just as well.” -Mark Twain

5. Optimistic

Like the pessimistic tone, the optimistic tone is more like a state of mind, rather than being a signifier of the reality within the story. The tone usually takes place in the narrator’s mind and is a reaction to a specific situation within the story.

“There is nothing sweeter in this sad world than the sound of someone you love calling your name.” -Kate DiCamillo, The Tale of Despereaux

“Don't be pushed around by the fears in your mind. Be led by the dreams in your heart.” -Roy T. Bennett, The Light in the Heart

“How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.” -Anne Frank, Anne Frank's Tales from the Secret Annex: A Collection of Her Short Stories, Fables, and Lesser-Known Writings

Joy is by far one of the purest of all positive emotions and could be used as a specific tone to create a lighter and happier atmosphere in your writing. This type of tone is usually used in character interaction situations and is meant to create a sense of positivity in the story.

“Stars are always dancing. Sometimes they dance twinkling away with the rhythm of your joyful heart and sometimes they dance without movement to embrace your heartache as if frozen sculptures of open-armed sadness.” -Munia Khan

“The most wasted of all days is one without laughter.”  -Nicolas Chamfort

7. Encouraging

If you are going to use an encouraging tone, you should take a more understanding and supportive frame of mind. The encouraging tone is meant to uplift, and reassure readers.

It could also be used to assuage readers about a specific fear that they have.

“So many things are possible just as long as you don’t know they’re impossible.” -Norton Juster, The Phantom Tollbooth

“You've gotta dance like there's nobody watching, Love like you'll never be hurt, Sing like there's nobody listening, And live like it's heaven on earth.” - William W. Purkey

“Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” -Mahatma Gandhi

8. Cooperative

When you use a cooperative tone, you should choose your words as carefully as possible. This type of tone is usually used in the workplace, or in situations where you will need group members to do their part.

The tone should emanate a positive outlook on the job, and compel your audience to do their part.

“One cannot be pessimistic about the West. This is the native home of hope. When it fully learns that cooperation, not rugged individualism, is the quality that most characterizes and preserves it, then it will have achieved itself and outlived its origins. Then it has a chance to create a society to match its scenery.” -Wallace Stegner, The Sound of Mountain Water

“I would like to see anyone, prophet, king or God, convince a thousand cats to do the same thing at the same time.” -Neil Gaiman

When you use a curious tone in your writing, your main goal should be to compel your audience to get curious about a specific topic. It could be an unsolved mystery, or an unanswered query, what’s important is that you compel your readers to dig deeper and learn more about the topic.

“The best thing for being sad," replied Merlin, beginning to puff and blow, "is to learn something. That's the only thing that never fails. You may grow old and trembling in your anatomies, you may lie awake at night listening to the disorder of your veins, you may miss your only love, you may see the world about you devastated by evil lunatics, or know your honour trampled in the sewers of baser minds. There is only one thing for it then — to learn. Learn why the world wags and what wags it. That is the only thing which the mind can never exhaust, never alienate, never be tortured by, never fear or distrust, and never dream of regretting. Learning is the only thing for you. Look what a lot of things there are to learn.” -T.H. White, The Once and Future King

“I'm really hoping he’s being genuine because I can already tell he isn't the kind of guy a girl gets a simple crush on. He’s the kind of guy you fall hard for, and the thought of that terrifies me. I don’t really want to fall hard for anyone at all, especially someone who’s only making an effort because he thinks I'm easy. I also don’t want to fall for someone who has already branded himself hopeless. But I'm curious. So curious.” -Colleen Hoover, Hopeless

“What about you? What do you do?” I needed to ask questions, draw him out. I needed to find out all the information I could. My voice sounded strong and smooth, but my hands were shaking. I put them in my lap so he couldn’t see. “I prey on innocent villagers and terrify their children,” he said with a nasty smile. “And sometimes when I’m feeling really evil, I read books or paint.” -Kate Avery Ellison, The Curse Girl

10. Worried

This tone’s main intent is to make the reader apprehensive about a character or topic. In order to use a worried tone, you should use specific words and scenarios that will create a sense of unease and anxiety in your readers.

“Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow, it empties today of its strength.” -Corrie Ten Boom, Clippings from My Notebook

“The more you pray, the less you'll panic. The more you worship, the less you worry. You'll feel more patient and less pressured.” -Rick Warren, The Purpose of Christmas

“The whole thing is quite hopeless, so it's no good worrying about tomorrow. It probably won't come.” -J R R Tolkien, The Return of the King

11. Nostalgic

A nostalgic tone is meant to evoke a fondness for times long past. This is a useful tone if you have your characters reminiscing about their younger days or the way things were when they were younger.

This tone could also be used if you are writing about specific eras such as the 70s or 80s.

“It is an illusion that youth is happy, an illusion of those who have lost it; but the young know they are wretched for they are full of the truthless ideal which have been instilled into them, and each time they come in contact with the real, they are bruised and wounded. It looks as if they were victims of a conspiracy; for the books they read, ideal by the necessity of selection, and the conversation of their elders, who look back upon the past through a rosy haze of forgetfulness, prepare them for an unreal life. They must discover for themselves that all they have read and all they have been told are lies, lies, lies; and each discovery is another nail driven into the body on the cross of life.” -W. Somerset Maugham, Of Human Bondage

“It is strange how we hold on to the pieces of the past while we wait for our futures.” -Ally Condie, Matched

12. Inspirational

This tone is meant to inspire readers to commit to a task or ideal. This could be used in a story where your main character calls his comrades to fight for an ideal.

It could also be used in self-help books where you call on your reader to strive for something. Just make sure that you don’t overdo it with the inspirational language because it might sound corny.

“Fairy tales are more than true: not because they tell us that dragons exist, but because they tell us that dragons can be beaten.” -Neil Gaiman, Coraline

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.” -Martin Luther King Jr., A Testament of Hope: The Essential Writings and Speeches

When it comes to making your writing as effective as possible, it is important that you know how to use tones. By using these tones in your manuscripts and poems, you will be able to add a whole new facet to your writing.

Remember though, that these are not the only tones out there. If you want to further expand your writing prowess, it is a good idea to experiment with other tones.

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Style and Tone Tips for Your College Essay | Examples

Published on September 21, 2021 by Kirsten Courault . Revised on June 1, 2023.

Unlike an academic essay, the college application essay does not require a formal tone. It gives you a chance to showcase your authentic voice and creative writing abilities. Here are some basic guidelines for using an appropriate style and tone in your college essay.

Table of contents

Strike a balance between casual and formal, write with your authentic voice, maintain a fast pace, use a paraphrasing tool for better style and tone, bend language rules for stylistic reasons, use american english, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about college application essays.

Use a conversational yet respectful tone, as if speaking with a familiar teacher, mentor, or coach. An academic, formal tone will seem too clinical, while an overly casual tone will seem unprofessional to admissions officers.

Find an appropriate middle ground without pedantic language or slang. For example, contractions are acceptable, but text message abbreviations are not.

Note that “Why this college?” essays , scholarship essays , and diversity essays are usually similarly conversational in tone.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

Your essay shouldn’t read like a professor, parent, or friend wrote it for you. Use first-person singular “I” statements, appropriate vocabulary for your level, and original expressions.

Prioritize using the first-person singular

Unlike in some other kinds of academic writing, you should write in the first-person singular (e.g., “I,” “me”) in a college application essay to highlight your perspective.

Avoid using “one” for generalizations , since this sounds stilted and unnatural. Use “we” sparingly to avoid projecting your opinions or beliefs onto other people who may not share the same views. In some cases, you can use “we” to talk about a community you know well, such as your family or neighborhood.

The second-person pronoun “you” can be used in some cases. Don’t write the whole essay to an unknown “you,” but if the narrative calls for it, occasionally addressing readers as “you” is generally okay.

Write within your vocabulary range

Creative but careful word choice is essential to enliven your essay. You should embellish basic words, but it shouldn’t read like you used a thesaurus to impress admissions officers.

Use clichés and idioms with discretion

Find a more imaginative way of rewriting overused expressions一unless it’s an intentional stylistic choice.

Write concisely and in the active voice to maintain a quick pace throughout your essay. Only add definitions if they provide necessary explanation.

Write concisely

Opt for a simple, concise way of writing, unless it’s a deliberate stylistic choice to describe a scene. Be intentional with every word, especially since college essays have word limits. However, do vary the length of your sentences to create an interesting flow.

Don’t provide definitions just to sound smart

You should explain terms or concepts that may be unfamiliar to the reader. However, don’t show off with several definitions to impress admissions officers.

Prioritize the active voice to maintain a lively tone

The passive voice can be used when the subject is unimportant or unknown. But in most cases, use the active voice to keep a fast pace throughout your essay.

If it seems hard to find the right tone and voice for your college essay, there are tools that can help.

One of these tools is the paraphrasing tool .

To begin, you can type or copy text you’ve already written into the tool.

After that, select a paraphrasing mode (e.g., fluency for better flowing text) that will rewrite your college essay accordingly.

You can occasionally bend grammatical rules if it adds value to the storytelling process and the essay maintains clarity. This can help your writing stand out from the crowd. However, return to using standard language rules if your stylistic choices would otherwise distract the reader from your overall narrative or could be easily interpreted as unintentional errors.

Sentence fragments

Sentence fragments can convey a quicker pace, a more immediate tone, and intense emotion in your essay. Use them sparingly, as too many fragments can be choppy, confusing, and distracting.

Non-standard capitalization

Usually,  common nouns should not be capitalized . But sometimes capitalization can be an effective tool to insert humor or signify importance.

For international students applying to US colleges, it’s important to remember to use US English rather than UK English .

For example, use double quotation marks rather than single ones, and don’t forget to put punctuation inside the double quotation marks. Also be careful to use American spelling, which can differ by just one or two letters from British spelling.

If you want to know more about academic writing , effective communication , or parts of speech , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Academic writing

• Writing process
• Transition words
• Passive voice
• Paraphrasing

 Communication

• How to end an email
• Ms, mrs, miss
• How to start an email
• I hope this email finds you well
• Hope you are doing well

 Parts of speech

• Personal pronouns
• Conjunctions

College application essays are less formal than other kinds of academic writing . Use a conversational yet respectful tone , as if speaking with a teacher or mentor. Be vulnerable about your feelings, thoughts, and experiences to connect with the reader.

Aim to write in your authentic voice , with a style that sounds natural and genuine. You can be creative with your word choice, but don’t use elaborate vocabulary to impress admissions officers.

Use first-person “I” statements to speak from your perspective . Use appropriate word choices that show off your vocabulary but don’t sound like you used a thesaurus. Avoid using idioms or cliché expressions by rewriting them in a creative, original way.

Write concisely and use the active voice to maintain a quick pace throughout your essay and make sure it’s the right length . Avoid adding definitions unless they provide necessary explanation.

In a college application essay , you can occasionally bend grammatical rules if doing so adds value to the storytelling process and the essay maintains clarity.

However, use standard language rules if your stylistic choices would otherwise distract the reader from your overall narrative or could be easily interpreted as unintentional errors.

A college application essay is less formal than most academic writing . Instead of citing sources formally with in-text citations and a reference list, you can cite them informally in your text.

For example, “In her research paper on genetics, Quinn Roberts explores …”

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Courault, K. (2023, June 01). Style and Tone Tips for Your College Essay | Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved September 16, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/college-essay/style-and-tone-tips/

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