Tone refers to the attitude or emotional quality conveyed by the author or speaker in a piece of writing or speech. It can reveal feelings, moods, and perspectives towards the subject matter or audience. Tone is expressed through various elements, including word choice (diction), sentence structure, punctuation, and stylistic choices.
For example, tones can range from formal, sarcastic, and humorous to somber, optimistic, or critical. In literature, understanding tone helps readers grasp the underlying sentiments and themes, contributing to a deeper comprehension of the text. In spoken communication, tone also includes vocal elements such as pitch, volume, and inflection, which can further influence the meaning conveyed.