The New SAT: Words to Capture Tone - List #1

english iv

Optimistic

hopeful that the best will happen in the future

pessimistic

expecting the worst possible outcome

neutral

having no personal preference

ambivalence

mixed feelings or emotions

frank

characterized by directness in a manner or speech

indignant

angered at something unjust or wrong

empathetic

showing ready comprehension of others’ states

appreciation

understanding of the nature of meaning of something

critical

of a serious examination and judgement of something

scornful

expressing extreme contempt

disdain

lack of respect accompanied by a feeling of intense dislike

proactive

serving or tending to excite or stimulate

hostile

characterized by enmity or ill will

advocate

a person who pleads for another person, cause, or idea

amusement

feeling of delight at being entertained

sympathetic

expressing compassion or friendly fellow feelings

affection

a positive feeling of liking

reverent

feeling or showing profound respect or veneration

mocking

expressing contempt or ridicule

resignation

the act of giving up, as a claim or office or possession