Diction takes a great part when analyzing Jane Austen 's use of language in Emma. The level of words used in the novel are not extremely high; yet, complex sentence structures with extensive uses of commas, semicolons, parenthesis, and dashes add some complexity to the book 's diction overall. Austen applies varying styles of diction depending on the character being discussed or talking in each section.
The overall diction in the novel is formal, largely because the time of the novel is set at a period when manners were highly valued. An example in the book can be found in the conversation between Mrs. Elton and Mr. Knightley. During their conversation, Mrs. Elton feels bad about Mr. Knightley 's manners, and she says: "That I am sure you would. Indeed, I do you justice, my good friend. Under that peculiar sort of dry, blunt manner, I know you have the warmest heart" (Austen 190). Although in an unfavorable situation, Mrs. Elton tries to remain polite and use appropriate vocabulary. However, informal dictions seldom appear on the novel to emphasize certain characters ' low level of education. To begin with diction in educated characters ' words, Emma 's speeches prove her well-educatedness and her high social status. In chapter 33, Emma talks about the relationship between Jane Fairfax and Mrs. Elton:
"Another thing must be taken into consideration too—Mrs. Elton does not talk to Miss Fairfax as she speaks of her. We all know the difference between the pronouns he or she