Look in detail at this extract, from lines 10 to 19 of the source: I am not one to hold a prejudice against any animal, but it is a plain fact that the spotted hyena is not well served by its appearance - AQA - GCSE English Language - Question 2 - 2023 - Paper 1

The writer employs a variety of words and phrases that emphasize the unattractiveness of the hyena. Phrases such as 'ugly beyond redemption' and 'shaggy, coarse coat' suggest not only a lack of physical beauty but also create a sense of disgust for the animal. This language choice strongly influences the readers' perception, painting the hyena in a very unfavorable light.

The use of harsh language features further underscores this negative portrayal. Describing its appearance with phrases like 'bungled mix of colours' implies a lack of refinement and indicates that the hyena's aesthetics are chaotic and unappealing. Furthermore, the simile likening its forehead to that of a bear establishes a sense of clumsiness and bulkiness, enhancing the reader's impression of the hyena as an ungraceful creature.

Additionally, the writer employs several sentence forms that serve to intensify the depiction of the hyena. The repetition of physical descriptions such as 'too massive' and 'too big' emphasizes exaggeration and contributes to the overwhelming impression of its unattractiveness. The line 'the tail is scraggly and unwagging' uses alliteration which draws attention to its undesirable characteristics.

Overall, the writer's choice of language, encompassing negative adjectives and vivid imagery, establishes a clear distaste for the hyena's appearance, indicating that it is perceived as more of a grotesque figure than an admirable animal.