Tone and Mood Terms #4

having a simultaneous attraction to and a repulsion from an idea; having mixed feelings 

• ambivalent
• malicious
• condescending
• absurd

showing lack of respect or reverence

• condescending
• irreverent
• absurd
• obsequious

dignified level, or one assuming an air of superiority 

• abstruse
• arrogant
• condescending
• vindictive

having sympathy for the problems of others

• compassionate
• ironic
• pessimistic
• arrogant

sentimental wish to return to a past time or condition

• nostalgic
• earnest
• impassioned
• abstruse

ridiculous and unreasonable

• ironic
• reticent
• absurd
• evasive

intending revenge

• vindictive
• impassioned
• apathetic
• malicious

polite or obedient from either fear or the hope of gain

• arrogant
• obsequious
• absurd
• pessimistic

expressing one thing and meaning the opposite

• abstruse
• impassioned
• earnest
• ironic

having a gloomy view of life

• incredulous
• pessimistic
• evasive
• nostalgic