Fiveable
Fiveable

Tone Shifts

Definition

Tone shifts refer to changes in the writer's attitude or tone throughout a piece of writing. These shifts can occur due to changes in subject matter, purpose, or intended audience.

Related terms

Diction: Diction refers to the author's choice of words and phrases which can contribute to establishing different tones.

Irony: Irony occurs when there is a contrast between what is expected and what actually happens. It can create shifts in tone within a text.

Satire: Satire uses humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to criticize human vices or shortcomings. It often involves frequent tone shifts for comedic effect.

"Tone Shifts" appears in:

Subjects (1)

  • AP English Literature

Additional resources (1)

  • AP English Language - 2024 AP English Language and Composition Exam Guide

collegeable - rocket pep

Are you a college student?

  • Study guides for the entire semester

  • 200k practice questions

  • Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab


Fiveable
About Us

About Fiveable

Blog

Careers

Code of Conduct

Terms of Use

Privacy Policy

CCPA Privacy Policy

Resources

Cram Mode

AP Score Calculators

Study Guides

Practice Quizzes

Glossary

Cram Events

Merch Shop

Crisis Text Line

Help Center

Stay Connected


© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.

About Us

About Fiveable

Blog

Careers

Code of Conduct

Terms of Use

Privacy Policy

CCPA Privacy Policy

Resources

Cram Mode

AP Score Calculators

Study Guides

Practice Quizzes

Glossary

Cram Events

Merch Shop

Crisis Text Line

Help Center

© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.