What is the tone of a paragraph that uses sarcasm to critique careless policy?

• A. Critical or sardonic
• B. Optimistic
• C. Formal and neutral
• D. Light-hearted

Answer: (A)

Tone expresses the speaker’s attitude toward the subject. When sarcasm is used to critique careless policy, the aim is to expose flaws with biting humor, signaling disapproval and ridicule. That stance fits a critical or sardonic tone, because it blends sharp critique with wit to undermine the policy. The other options don’t fit: optimism would look for positive outcomes, a formal and neutral tone would avoid ridicule and emotion, and a light-hearted tone would treat the issue with amusement rather than sharp critique.