You can use the semantic differential with any adjectives you choose, and they don't even have to make sense. The point is to collect response patterns that you can analyze for scaling purposes. You can also use a ruler and obtain precise numerical measurements. Throw out the items that don't correlate well with one another, and you've got a very precise and accurate scale. They are sometimes called composites, inventories, tests, or questionnaires.
Indexes are usually at the ordinal, but mostly interval level.
I have purposely damaged or destroyed public property. I often skip school without a legitimate excuse. I use tobacco. I like to fight. I like to gamble.