ACT: Words to Capture Tone: Words to Capture Tone, List 12

On the ACT Reading Test, you will almost certainly encounter questions that ask about an author's tone — that is, the author's attitude toward their subject matter. Master our comprehensive collection of common words used to describe an author's tone, and you'll be well prepared to tackle these questions.
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Full list of words from this list:

words only definitions & notes
  1. scornful
    expressing extreme contempt
    Considering herself a “medical rules snob,” Ms. Taylor is scornful of charlatan cures and magical thinking. New York Times (Apr 30, 2016)
  2. sentimental
    very sentimental or emotional
    His works are incredibly tender, sensitive and touching, but not in any sentimental way. The Guardian (Oct 12, 2020)
  3. serious
    completely lacking in playfulness
    Even when she looked serious—as she did now—her face held the possibility of joy and laughter. The Strangers
  4. amusing
    providing enjoyment; pleasantly entertaining
    The overwhelming response was “ridicule” — French for ridiculous and absurd, as well as comical and amusing. New York Times (Oct 2, 2020)
  5. smug
    marked by excessive complacency or self-satisfaction
    "My grin in the picture is one of smug satisfaction." BBC (Dec 7, 2020)
  6. somber
    serious and gloomy in character
    Visitors on a recent Tuesday described the museum as lonely, even somber. Washington Post (Nov 18, 2020)
  7. supercilious
    having or showing arrogant superiority
    His tone was a little supercilious now, but still polite. New York Times (Jan 16, 2020)
  8. superficial
    only concerned with what is apparent or obvious
    Even when they use the correct terminology, the coverage is largely superficial and avoids serious discussion of the dire implications. Salon (Sep 4, 2020)
  9. timid
    lacking conviction or boldness or courage
    My writing is very timid, while I’m writing, but when it decides to become a book it gets ambitious, it’s immodest. The Guardian (Aug 29, 2020)
  10. vexed
    troubled persistently especially with petty annoyances
    Telemachus saw her waiting by the threshold and was vexed to the heart that a guest should not find instant welcome. Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes
  11. whimsical
    indulging in or influenced by the imagination
    She might swerve into detailed exposition of past events, but she quickly slingshots back to her more whimsical, inspired musings. Washington Post (Dec 10, 2020)
  12. zealous
    marked by active interest and enthusiasm
    Her grandfather was the charismatic, zealous leader demanding commitment and claiming a monopoly on truth. The Guardian (Sep 17, 2020)
Created on Mon Jun 09 15:08:37 EDT 2025

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