When writing a language analysis essay for VCE English, you should always comment on the author’s tone and how the author’s tone is designed to persuade their audience.
However, some tone words – such as “calm”, “negative”, or “passionate” are overused by VCE students in their English language analysis essays. While there is nothing wrong with these words, consider using alternative terms to make your essay stand out to exam markers.
Below is a list of commonly used tone words and some less common alternatives you should try to incorporate into your language analysis essays.
Alternative tone words for VCE language analysis
For a printable PDF of this study resource, please click here: Tone words for VCE English Language Analysis PDF.
| DON’T SAY | TRY INSTEAD |
| Calm, logical, reasoned | Reasoned, measured, raional, considered, moderate, respectful, earnest, reassuring, laid-back, frank, sensible, serious, reflective |
| Excited, angry, passionate | Aggressive, antagonistic, mocking, disrespectful, emotional, fervent, ardent, vehement, assertive, emotive, pleading, outraged |
| Complaining or otherwise negative | Embittered, resentful, appalled, pessimistic, despondent, anxious, disgusted, sarcastic, disparaging, bitter, biting, critical, frustrated, hostile, disillusioned, hostile, pessimistic |
| Positive or happy | Hopeful, enthusiastic, humorous, optimistic, confident, encouraging, supportive, admiring, approving, |
| Neutral | Impartial, balanced, objective, detached, dispassionate, guarded |
| Disrespectful | Disbelieving, ridiculing, sarcastic, incredulous, sceptical |
| Casual | Colloquial, relaxed, friendly, approachable |
| Kind | Compassionate, empathetic, understanding, affable, collegial, amicable. |
| Over the top | Dramatic, hyperbolic |
| Sad | Wistful, doleful, sorrowful, pessimistic, cheerless, woeful |
| Firm | Uncompromising, assertive, commanding, forceful |
| Warning | Cautionary, foreboding, advisory |
