Language, Tone, and Audience
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). For example, we don’t use the same language, nor
do we speak in the same tone, when we talk to our friends as we do with our grandparents.
Similarly, if we speak to our parents disrespectfully, they might respond by saying, “Don’t use
that tone with me!” 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.
LANGUAGE
This is how you say what you want to say, or the words a writer chooses to clearly and
effectively express ideas or to evoke a particular mood. Developing a rich and extensive
vocabulary will enable you to create variety in your writing.
Colloquial Language
Colloquial language is used in informal writing situations and creates a conversational tone.
Everyday spoken language gives your writing a casual, relaxed effect. Colloquial language is
not necessarily “wrong,” but it is used when a writer is trying to achieve informality. Some
college writing assignments may require writers to use colloquial language, but most require a
formal tone that is discipline-specific.
Informal: Some adults haven’t got a clue about what is important to the younger generation.
Formal: Adults may not be aware of what is important to the younger generation.
Informal: I don’t want my kid sister tagging along with my friends and me.
Formal: I do not want my younger sister accompanying my friends and me.
Sexist and Racist Language
Just as you proofread your work for grammatical errors and fluidity and clarity of expression,
you should also reread your compositions for bias. Language can often reflect harmful
prejudices that people have toward others on the basis of gender, sexual orientation, ethnic
group, disability, or even age. This would be inappropriate to use in either writing or speaking.
Sexist language can be patronizing:
Example: Ladies are increasingly entering professions previously closed to them.
Revised: Women are increasingly entering professions previously closed to them.
Center for Academic Excellence, Saint Joseph College, Revised 2009 1
