AP Tone Words - Set #1

affectionate

expressing warmth, fondness, or caring toward someone or something

ambivalent

expressing mixed or conflicting feelings about someone or something

amused

expressing mild enjoyment or finding something entertaining

anxious

expressing worry, nervousness, or unease about what may happen

approving

expressing agreement with or favorable judgement of something or someone

arrogant

expressing an exaggerated sense of one’s own importance or superiority

calm

expressing composure, peace, or freedom from agitation

caustic

expressing sharp criticism in a biting or hurtful way

compassionate

expressing sympathy, care, and concern for the suffering of others

curious

expressing a desire to learn, understand, or discover more

didactic

expressing an intent to teach or instruct, especially by offering moral lessons

earnest

expressing sincere seriousness and genuine conviction

foreboding

expressing a sense that something bad is about to happen

objective

expressing ideas based on facts rather than personal feelings or opinions

skeptical

expressing doubt or questioning accepted ideas or claims