Terms/Tone Quiz 4 Flashcards
allusive
(of a remark or reference) working by suggestion rather than explicit mention.
Ex: The work’s allusive meanings come not from individual pictures, but from the carefully sequenced whole.
diffident
modest or shy because of a lack of self-confidence.
Ex: Yet, despite the bragging, it seemed to me a diffident and unconfident performance.
burlesque
an absurd or comically exaggerated imitation of something, especially in a literary or dramatic work; a parody.
Ex: The humorous situations are mostly burlesque, and it includes satire.
insipid
lacking vigor or interest.
Ex: many artists continued to churn out insipid, shallow works
laudatory
(of speech or writing) expressing praise and commendation.
Ex: Centennial celebrations of songwriters and performers tend to be laudatory.
revential
of the nature of, due to, or characterized by reverence.
Ex: Their names are always mentioned in reverential tones.
turgid
(of language or style) tediously pompous or bombastic.
Ex: Some turgid verses on the death of Prince Albert.
querulous
complaining in a petulant or whining manner.
Ex: She became querulous and demanding.
poignant
evoking a keen sense of sadness or regret.
Ex: A poignant reminder of the passing of time.
candid
truthful and straightforward; frank.
Ex: His responses were remarkably candid.
contemptuous
showing contempt; scornful.
Ex: She was intolerant and contemptuous of the majority of the human race.
indignant
feeling or showing anger or annoyance at what is perceived as unfair treatment.
Ex: He was indignant at being the object of suspicion.
bantering
talk or exchange remarks in a good-humored teasing way.
Ex: The men bantered with the waitresses
somber
dark or dull in color or tone; gloomy.
Ex: The night skies were somber and starless.
cynical
concerned only with one’s own interests and typically disregarding accepted or appropriate standards in order to achieve them.
Ex: A cynical manipulation of public opinion.
