Here's a breakdown:
* Tone refers to the author's or speaker's attitude towards the subject matter and the audience. It's how the language makes the reader feel.
* Word choice (diction) plays a significant role in creating tone. For example, using formal language creates a serious tone, while using informal language can create a casual or humorous tone.
* Sentence structure also contributes to tone. Short, choppy sentences can create a sense of urgency or excitement, while longer, more complex sentences can create a more formal or thoughtful tone.
Example:
Sentence 1: "The old man walked slowly down the street, his head bent low."
Sentence 2: "The ancient geezer shuffled along the pavement, his head drooping like a wilted flower."
Both sentences describe the same action, but the tone is different. Sentence 1 conveys a sense of sadness and perhaps even loneliness. Sentence 2, with its informal language and figurative language, is more humorous and potentially disrespectful.
Understanding tone is essential for interpreting texts and understanding the author's message.