What type of language involves choosing words that establish tone and effect?

Diction is the correct choice because it refers to the specific word choice an author or speaker uses to convey meaning, emotion, and tone. By selecting particular words, a writer can evoke certain feelings in the reader, create mood, and establish the overall atmosphere of a piece. For example, the use of formal versus informal language, or selecting vivid versus mundane words, can significantly influence how the audience perceives a text.

In contrast, syntax refers to the arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences; while it can impact meaning and tone, it does so in a different way compared to diction. Imagery involves the use of descriptive language to create vivid mental pictures, focusing more on sensory experiences rather than the selection of words for tone. Narration pertains to the act of telling a story, which involves elements such as plot and character rather than the specific language choices that establish tone.