Which of the following best describes how word choice can affect tone?

Word choice plays a crucial role in shaping the tone of a piece of writing, as it can greatly influence the emotional responses of the reader. When an author selects specific words, they invoke particular feelings and associations that can either elevate or diminish the text's emotional resonance. For example, using vivid, descriptive language can evoke excitement or joy, while harsher, more abrupt wording can convey anger or frustration.

The emotional impact of word choice means that an author's intent can be communicated effectively, allowing the reader to connect with the text on a deeper level. The overall mood and atmosphere of the writing are thus created and influenced through careful consideration of the words used. This relationship between word choice and emotional response is fundamental in literature, speeches, and other forms of communication, as it allows the author to guide the reader’s perceptions and feelings throughout the narrative.

While narrative structure and factual accuracy are important aspects of writing, they are not directly related to how word choice impacts tone in the same way emotional responses are. Consequently, the selectivity of language used is key to establishing the desired tone and eliciting a particular emotional reaction from the audience.