How does machiavelli’s use of words such as seizing, usurper, inflict, knife, win, reassure, and benefits affect the tone of the passage? there are more words with negative ones than positive ones, creating a frightening tone. There are more words with negative ones than positive ones, creating a threatening tone. The words with positive connotations soften the ones with negative connotations to create a serious, matter-of-fact tone. The words with positive connotations are used to create an encouraging tone.