Diction (a touch of Tone)

The literary term "diction" refers to

• the dictionary definition of a word

• the way we speak

• an author's choice of words

Language that allows the reader to form a visual image

• connotation

• imagery

• slang

Language that we use in everyday speech, casual and relaxed

• formal

• informal

• slang

Language that is free of slang, idioms, colloquialisms, and contractions; often contains polysyllabic words and sophisticated syntax; used in professional meetings, speeches, academic writings, and so forth.

• formal

• informal

• slang

Choose the word which would convey the greatest emotional intensity.

I was _________ when my best friend came back to visit after moving away.

• ecstatic

• happy

• pleased

Informal language that is ever-changing, and often particular to a certain group, used to create identity and exclude outsiders.

• colloqialism

• slang

• jargon

Phrases, the meanings of which can not be deduced by the words themselves

• colloquialism

• slang

• idioms

Words used within a particular profession or group, may be difficult for others to understand

• colloquialism

• jargon

• slang

Language that describes physical qualities or conditions

• literal

• concrete

• imagery

Language that signifies ideas, concepts, or emotions that are not physical or concrete

• figurative

• abstract

• literal