Rhymes and Defines
Vocabulary in Context
Tone on the Phone
Watch Your Language (Informal, Formal, Technical, or Persuasive)
PUNishing Expressions
100

Rhyming with famous, this term describes something that makes people laugh.

What is humorous?

100

“While he remained stern and sarcastic, that became almost lovable once the crew got used to it.” Based on this, sarcastic means:

What is mocking or ironic?

100

This term describes the author’s emotional attitude or stance toward the subject.

What is tone?

100

“Grats on the new job! It’s amazing, and you totally deserve it!” This language is:

What is informal?

100

If humor is the name of the game, and you play it by cleverly twisting words, you’ve mastered this witty art form, which can be pun-ishingly funny!

What is a pun?

200

This word rhymes with expert and refers to a small part of a larger text.

What is excerpt?

200

“After the debate, she stood resolute in her decision, despite criticism.” Resolute in this sentence means:

What is determined or unwavering?

200

“Hey, I guess you don’t care about helping with this project anymore. No worries.” What tone is most likely here?

What is sarcastic or passive-aggressive?

200

“The following report details each phase of the research methodology used in this study.” What type of language is this?

What is technical?

200

When someone’s choice causes a massive shift, you might say they’re making this type of play, even though they’re not in sports.

What is game-changer?

300

Rhyming with kite, this word is used to show a contrast in meaning, as in, “He enjoyed the movie, ____ the bad reviews.”

What is despite?

300

“The dog’s innocuous bark did little to intimidate the strangers.” Based on this sentence, innocuous most likely means:

What is harmless?

300

“Good luck on your big test tomorrow! I know you’re going to do great!” What is the tone?

What is encouraging or supportive?

300

“By signing up today, you’ll experience all the benefits that thousands are already raving about!” This language is:

What is persuasive?

300

If someone makes a promise they have no real intention of keeping, they’re serving up this phrase instead of real commitment.

What is lip service?

400

This word rhymes with next and refers to the surrounding information in writing that helps you figure out a word’s meaning.

What is context?

400

“The protestor's speech was labeled incendiary by the media, sparking a larger reaction.” Incendiary here likely means:

What is provocative or causing anger?

400

“Fine. Forget I asked. I don’t need your help anyway.” Based on this message, the tone is:

What is dismissive or frustrated?

400

“Please refer to the list of symptoms for this condition, and report any if they arise.” This type of language is:

What is technical?

400

You might call someone’s assurances this if they make claims that sound sincere but hold little weight.

What are empty promises?

500

This term rhyming with foundation refers to the suggested or emotional meaning behind a word beyond its literal definition.

What is connotation?

500

“The writer added nuance to his argument by including a range of perspectives.” What does nuance mean in this context?

What is subtle distinction or detail?

500

“I apologize for the delay in my response and appreciate your patience.” What is the tone?

What is formal or respectful?

500

“We regret to inform you that your account has been temporarily suspended due to suspicious activity.” This language is:

What is formal?

500

If an article leaves out critical information, it might be accused of having one of these… and it’s not shining in a good way.

What is glaring omission?