An article states: 'Despite significant investment, the city's new public transportation system remains largely underutilized and inconvenient for most commuters.' What is the author's primary tone regarding the transportation system?
✓ Correct Answer: Option C
The words 'underutilized' and 'inconvenient' convey a negative assessment of the transportation system's effectiveness. This indicates a critical tone, rather than an optimistic, neutral, or appreciative one.