Positive or Negative Communication
Some words that indicate communication convey a positive or negative intention. Scold, criticize, and mock, for example, deliver a negative message to the listener. On the other hand, praise, compliment, and cheer deliver a positive message. How would you categorize the italicized words in the following sentences? Remember to use your common sense to help you determine each word's meaning.
The supervisor admonished the clerk for his poor performance.
Since the clerk's performance was poor, the supervisor's communication would probably deliver a negative message. Indeed, admonished means "scolded" or "reprimanded."
Ruth's chief commended her for her quick action during the crisis.
Ruth's chief would probably not scold her for quick action in a crisis, but praise her. Commend means "praise" or "compliment" and has a positive message for the hearer.
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