9. Which of the following best describes the diction of this excerpt from "And Of Clay Are We Created"? "Much later, after soldiers and volunteers had arrived to rescue the living and try to access the magnitude of the cataclysm, it was calculated that beneath the mud lay more than twenty thousand human beings and an indefinite number of animals putrefying in a viscous soup."
(A) precise and formal
(B) simple and casual
(C) vivid and figurative
(D) elevated and metaphorical
(D) elevated and metaphorical
This excerpt is not just providing straightforward information, but it is using language that is more imaginative and impactful. It talks about the magnitude of the cataclysm and describes the victims as "putrefying in a viscous soup", which uses vivid and metaphorical language to create a stronger emotional impact. So, it best fits the description of being elevated and metaphorical.
The diction of this excerpt can best be described as (A) precise and formal.
To determine the diction of this excerpt, we need to analyze the word choices and figure out the overall tone and style of the language used. In this case, let's break down each option to find the best fit for the given excerpt.
(A) precise and formal: The language in this excerpt is not particularly precise, as it includes phrases like "much later" and "an indefinite number." Additionally, the diction is not formal, as it does not adhere to strict grammatical rules or use technical terminology.
(B) simple and casual: The language in this excerpt is not particularly simple or casual. It uses descriptive and specific words like "cataclysm," "volunteers," "putrefying," and "viscous soup," which require a certain level of understanding and are not commonly used in everyday conversation.
(C) vivid and figurative: The language in this excerpt is vivid, as it paints a clear picture of the situation. It uses strong and evocative words like "mud," "rescue," "human beings," and "putrefying." However, it does not contain many figurative expressions or metaphors, so this option may not be the best fit.
(D) elevated and metaphorical: The language in this excerpt does not have an elevated or poetic style, nor does it contain notable metaphors.
Based on our analysis, the option that best describes the diction of this excerpt is (C) vivid and figurative.
To arrive at this answer, you should carefully read the excerpt and analyze the language and tone used. By examining the words, phrases, and overall style, you can determine the most suitable description of the diction.
(Are you sure it's "access"? Should it be "assess"?)
Diction is referring to the author's choice of words. This passage is not D, but you'll need to decide which one it is -- formal? casual? vivid?
Let me know what you decide.