If the tone of a paragraph is sarcastic, what is the author's attitude?

• A. Mocking or ironic attitude
• B. Cheerful tone
• C. Neutral attitude
• D. Respectful tone

Answer: (A)

Sarcasm communicates a mocking or ironic attitude toward the subject (and often toward the reader as well). When the writer uses sarcasm, the surface meaning is at odds with what they truly think, signaling contempt, ridicule, or scorn. That contrast between what’s said and what’s meant is the hallmark of sarcasm, showing the author doesn’t passively accept the subject but treats it with derision.

This differs from a cheerful tone, which conveys happiness and warmth; a neutral attitude, which is calm and unbiased; or a respectful tone, which shows deference or politeness. The sarcastic voice, by using irony and implied criticism, makes the author’s attitude clearly mocking or ironic.