Vocabulary / Word Lists for writers

tone descriptions

abashed: cause to feel embarrassed, disconcerted, or ashamed.

abrasive: (of a person or manner) showing little concern for the feelings of others; harsh.

ex: "her abrasive and arrogant personal style won her few friends"

abusive

accepting

acerbic: (especially of a comment or style of speaking) sharp and forthright.

acquiescent: ready to accept something without protest, or to do what someone else wants.

admiring

adoring

affectionate

aghast: filled with horror or shock.

amused

angry

anxious

apologetic

apprehensive: anxious or fearful that something bad or unpleasant will happen.

ardent: enthusiastic or passionate.

argumentative

audacious: showing a willingness to take surprisingly bold risks or showing an impudent lack of respect.

awe-struck

begrudging

bemused: puzzle, confuse, or bewilder (someone).

benevolent: well meaning and kindly.

bitter

blithe: happy or joyous.

boastful

bored

bristling : aggressively brisk or tense.

brusque

calm

candid: truthful and straightforward; frank

caustic: sarcastic in a scathing and bitter way.

childish

child-like

cold

complimentary: expressing a compliment; praising or approving.

contemptuous: showing contempt; scornful.

coy: (especially with reference to a woman) making a pretense of shyness or modesty that is intended to be alluring.

critical

curt: rudely brief.

cutting

cynical: believing that people are motivated by self-interest; distrustful of human sincerity or integrity

defamatory: (of remarks, writing, etc.) damaging the good reputation of someone; slanderous or libelous.