Word choice is critical in giving an audience the true understanding of an oral presentation or performance. How do tone and figurative language influence our understanding of an oral presentation or performance? Provide examples of: language that conveys a specific tone, and figurative language that impacts your understanding of a presentation or performance (e.g. of Macbeth).

Figurative language can elevate ordinary, everyday language. Much like figurative language enhances common language, the use of metaphors, similes and imagery adds to the reader’s experience.

Whether we realize it or not, whenever we write or talk, we all use language, tone, and pay attention to our audience. We adjust our behavior, speech, and actions depending upon who we are speaking to or writing for (our audience).

When writing, the words we choose create the tone and convey to the reader that we are being conversational, formal, sarcastic, or even humorous. Language, tone, and audience significantly affect how we communicate our ideas in our writing.

When writers define the purpose and goals of their writing, they should pay attention to the tone they want to create to achieve the most effective results. The tone affects the writer’s style and distinctive voice.