Question

britain, with an army to enforce her tyranny, has declared that she has a right (not only to tax) but “to bind us in all cases whatsoever,” and if being bound in that manner, is not slavery, then is there not such a thing as slavery upon earth.
—“the crisis,” no. 1,
thomas paine
select two ways in which paine’s word choice contributes to the tone of this passage.
the words tyranny and slavery suggest that britain abuses its power and mistreats the colonists.
the negative connotations of tyranny and slavery illustrate disgust with britain’s behavior toward the colonists.
the plain words tyranny and slavery suggest that britain’s behavior is easy to explain.

Explanation:

• First option: The words "tyranny" and "slavery" are strong terms. "Tyranny" implies oppressive rule, and "slavery" implies being in a subjugated, mistreated state. So, they suggest Britain abuses its power and mistreats the colonists.
• Second option: Words like "tyranny" (which means cruel and oppressive government) and "slavery" (a state of being owned and mistreated) have very negative connotations. These connotations show the writer's disgust with Britain's behavior towards the colonists.
• Third option: The focus of the words "tyranny" and "slavery" is not on simplicity of explanation. Their main impact is on the emotional and descriptive tone (showing abuse and disgust) rather than on ease of explaining Britain's behavior.

Answer:

• The words tyranny and slavery suggest that Britain abuses its power and mistreats the colonists.
• The negative connotations of tyranny and slavery illustrate disgust with Britain’s behavior toward the colonists.