Style & Voice Vocabulary

the distinctive personality and style of a writer

“Hemingway's voice is spare and muscular. Didion's is precise and melancholic.”

Origin: Latin `vox` (voice), metaphorically extended to writing

the author's attitude toward subject or audience

“The tone was ironic, understated, almost mocking.”

Origin: Greek `tonos` (tension, pitch)

the level of formality in language

“Academic register vs. casual register. Know when to switch.”

Origin: Latin `regesta` (things recorded), later linguistic use

word choice and vocabulary level

“Elevated diction: 'commence.' Plain diction: 'start.'”

Origin: Latin `dictio` (speaking, word), from `dicere` (to say)

the arrangement of words and phrases

“Short syntax punches. Longer, more elaborate syntax unfolds with deliberate patience.”

Origin: Greek `syntaxis` (arrangement), from `syn-` (together) + `tassein` (to arrange)

the rhythm and flow of prose

“The cadence of his sentences rose and fell like breathing.”

Origin: Latin `cadere` (to fall), from the falling inflection at phrase ends

placing clauses side by side without subordination

“I came. I saw. I conquered. Each clause independent, equal.”

Origin: Greek `parataxis` (placing side by side)

using subordinate clauses to show hierarchy

“Because he saw the opportunity, and although he was afraid, he acted.”

Origin: Greek `hypotaxis` (subjection), from `hypo-` (under) + `taxis` (arrangement)