English Regents Vocab

Rhetorical

Asked or stated for effect rather than to get an actual answer; often used to provoke thought in titles or questions.

Ironic

Expresses a meaning opposite of what is expected; the title or situation contrasts with the actual message of the text.

Nostalgic

Expresses a longing for the past; focuses on memories, childhood, or earlier times.

Misleading

Creates an expectation that the text does not fulfill; only correct if the title truly does not match the content.

Reflective

Thoughtfully examines experiences or ideas; the author looks back and analyzes meaning.

Informative

Intended to explain, clarify, or teach factual information in a neutral tone.

Persuasive

Intended to convince the reader to accept a viewpoint or take action.

Symbolic

Represents something beyond its literal meaning; stands for a larger idea or theme.

Universal

Applies to many people or situations beyond the specific text.

Critical

Evaluates or judges ideas, strengths, or weaknesses; not necessarily negative.

Objective

Based on facts and evidence rather than personal feelings or opinions.

Subjective

Based on personal opinions, feelings, or beliefs.

Optimistic

Expresses hopefulness or confidence about future outcomes.

Pessimistic

Expresses a negative or doubtful outlook about outcomes.

Skeptical

Questions or doubts the truth or validity of ideas.

Respectful

Shows admiration, consideration, or regard toward a subject.

Humorous

Intended to amuse or entertain the reader.

Serious

Earnest and thoughtful in tone; not playful or joking.

Cautionary

Warns the reader about potential dangers or consequences.

Didactic

Intended to teach a lesson or provide moral instruction.

Evaluative

Judges the effectiveness, value, or quality of something.

Exploratory

Examines ideas or possibilities without forming a firm conclusion.

Explanatory

Clarifies how or why something happens.

Comparative

Examines similarities between ideas, texts, or concepts.

Contrastive

Highlights differences between ideas, texts, or concepts.

Emphatic

Strongly stated or expressed for emphasis.

Subtle

Indirect or understated; meaning is implied rather than stated outright.

Biased

One-sided or unfairly prejudiced; favors one perspective over others.

Sarcastic

Uses mockery or irony to convey contempt or ridicule.

Ambiguous

Open to more than one interpretation; unclear in meaning.

Neutral

Does not take a strong position; balanced and unbiased in tone.