“Ten Indians” is a dialogue-driven story, and the simple, straightforward diction reflects the characters’ lifestyle and helps build the setting. Reflecting Modernist techniques, the conversations use everyday language, vernacular, and contractions, such as “Carl ain’t no good with girls,” “What you laughing at?” and “Oh shucks” (20, 21). Likewise, the Garners’ diction—their use of slurs and stereotypes—plainly depicts their racism. Their speech patterns share some elements with Nick’s and his father’s, though neither of the Adamses uses slurs when discussing Indigenous people. As such, diction creates a contrast between the characters and their values. The conversational diction also differs from the anonymous narrator’s descriptions, which feature complex, sophisticated sentences and extended paragraphs. The distinction between the conversational diction between characters and the narrator’s more sophisticated diction helps deepen the distinction between Nick and the Garners, as the narrator follows his interiority.

A predominant element of Ernest Hemingway’s style is the repetition of words and phrases, which creates a rhythmic and often staccato cadence that reinforces his themes. For example, the repetition of Joe Garner’s full name reflects his power as the family’s patriarch.