In an Argumentative Essay: What Tone Should the Author Use? A Multi-faceted Discussion

In an Argumentative Essay: What Tone Should the Author Use? A Multi-faceted Discussion

In the realm of argumentative essays, the tone an author employs is often a delicate balance between several tones, aiming to engage the reader, present a convincing argument, and maintain objectivity throughout. The question of ‘what tone should the author use?’ in an argumentative essay cannot be answered in isolation, as it heavily depends on the essay’s subject matter, intended audience, and the author’s intended message.

1. Objective and Neutral Tone

The cornerstone of any argumentative essay is a balanced and objective approach to the subject matter. The author should strive to present both sides of the argument, without favoring one side excessively. Using a neutral tone helps establish trustworthiness and creates a platform for rational debate. The language should be clear, precise, and avoid personal bias or emotional rhetoric.

2. Persuasive but Respectful Tone

While neutrality is essential, the tone should also be persuasive enough to motivate readers to consider the author’s viewpoint. This can be achieved by adopting a respectful tone that encourages dialogue rather than preaching. The author should aim to present their arguments in a way that encourages readers to think critically and consider alternative perspectives.

3. Engaging and Lively Tone

To captivate readers’ attention, the tone should be lively and engaging. This can be achieved by using vivid language, storytelling, and examples that resonate with readers’ everyday experiences. An engaging tone helps break down complex issues into more understandable and interesting chunks that are less intimidating for readers to engage with.

4. Conversational and Accessible Tone

Argumentative essays aim to persuade readers, often through complex reasoning and evidence-based arguments. However, it’s essential to make these arguments accessible to a wide audience. Using a conversational tone helps bridge the gap between complex ideas and everyday language, making it easier for readers to understand and engage with the essay’s content.

In conclusion, in an argumentative essay, the author should aim for a well-balanced tone that combines neutrality with persuasiveness, liveliness with accessibility, all in pursuit of fostering a thoughtful understanding among readers towards their argument and presenting evidence with clarity in doing so. As this discussion illustrates, finding this balance can lead to an argumentative essay that not only informs but also encourages thoughtful engagement from readers on the subject matter at hand.

FAQs:

  1. What is the role of tone in an argumentative essay? The tone plays a crucial role in setting the mood and establishing trust with readers in an argumentative essay. It helps convey the author’s attitude towards the subject matter and can persuade readers to consider alternative perspectives or engage with the argument.

  2. How should an argumentative essay be written? An argumentative essay should be written in a structured manner with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. The introduction should present the topic and provide background information. The body should present evidence-based arguments supported by facts or research, while the conclusion summarizes the argument and provides a closing statement on the subject matter.

  3. What makes a good argumentative essay? A good argumentative essay presents a well-defined argument supported by evidence, logic, and critical analysis. It should present both sides of the argument objectively and aim to persuade readers towards considering the author’s viewpoint through compelling reasoning and evidence-based arguments.