Connotation Quiz

Which of the following sentences uses a word with a negative connotation?

• The aroma of the freshly baked bread filled the room.

• The stench of the garbage was overwhelming.

• The fragrance of the flowers was delightful.

• The scent of the ocean was refreshing.

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'The stench of the garbage was overwhelming.' The word 'stench' has a negative connotation, implying a foul smell, unlike the other options which use more positive or neutral terms.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.5B

CCSS.RI.9-10.4

CCSS.RI.9-10.4

CCSS.RL.8.4

CCSS.RL.9-10.4

Identify the connotation of the word "youthful" in the following sentence: "Her youthful energy was contagious."

• Positive

• Negative

• Neutral

• Sarcastic

Answer explanation

The word "youthful" in the sentence conveys a sense of vitality and enthusiasm, suggesting a positive connotation. The phrase "youthful energy was contagious" implies that her energy positively influenced others.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.5B

CCSS.RI.8.4

CCSS.RI.9-10.4

CCSS.RI.9-10.4

CCSS.RL.9-10.4

Which word has a more positive connotation when describing a person's behavior?

• Stubborn

• Determined

• Obstinate

• Pigheaded

Answer explanation

The word 'determined' has a positive connotation, suggesting persistence and resolve. In contrast, 'stubborn,' 'obstinate,' and 'pigheaded' imply an unwillingness to change, which is generally viewed negatively.

Tags

CCSS.RI.8.4

CCSS.RI.9-10.4

CCSS.RI.9-10.4

CCSS.RL.8.4

CCSS.RL.9-10.4

Sarah was describing her new neighbor to her friend. She said, "He's quite the character." What is the connotation of the word "character" in this context?

• Positive

• Negative

• Neutral

• Ambiguous

Answer explanation

In this context, "quite the character" suggests that Sarah views her neighbor as interesting or unique in a positive way, indicating a favorable connotation of the word "character." Therefore, the correct answer is Positive.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.5B

CCSS.RI.9-10.4

CCSS.RI.9-10.4

CCSS.RL.8.4

CCSS.RL.9-10.4

In a novel, a character is described as "meticulous." What impact does this connotation have on the reader's perception of the character?

• The character is seen as careless.

• The character is seen as detail-oriented and careful.

• The character is seen as lazy.

• The character is seen as disorganized.

Answer explanation

The term "meticulous" suggests that the character pays great attention to detail and is careful in their actions, leading readers to perceive them as organized and diligent rather than careless or lazy.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.5B

CCSS.RI.9-10.4

CCSS.RI.9-10.4

CCSS.RL.8.4

CCSS.RL.9-10.4

How does the connotation of the word "slender" differ from "skinny" when describing a person?

• "Slender" has a negative connotation, while "skinny" has a positive connotation.

• "Slender" has a positive connotation, while "skinny" has a negative connotation.

• Both have a neutral connotation.

• Both have a positive connotation.

Answer explanation

The word 'slender' conveys a positive image of gracefulness and health, while 'skinny' often implies an unhealthy thinness, leading to a negative connotation. Thus, 'slender' is viewed positively, whereas 'skinny' is not.

Tags

CCSS.L.8.5C

CCSS.L.9-10.5B

CCSS.RI.9-10.4

CCSS.RI.9-10.4

CCSS.RL.9-10.4

In the sentence, "The politician's speech was filled with rhetoric," what is the connotation of the word "rhetoric"?

• Positive

• Negative

• Neutral

• Inspirational

Answer explanation

In this context, 'rhetoric' often implies insincerity or manipulation, suggesting that the politician's speech may lack genuine substance. Therefore, the connotation of 'rhetoric' is considered negative.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.5B

CCSS.RI.8.4

CCSS.RI.9-10.4

CCSS.RL.8.4

CCSS.RL.9-10.4

In a story, a writer describes a house as "a cozy little cottage." What is the connotation of the word "cozy"?

• Positive

• Negative

• Neutral

• Formal

Answer explanation

The word "cozy" has a positive connotation, suggesting warmth, comfort, and a welcoming atmosphere. This enhances the description of the house, making it sound inviting and pleasant.

Tags

CCSS.L.8.5C

CCSS.L.9-10.5B

CCSS.RI.9-10.4

CCSS.RL.8.4

CCSS.RL.9-10.4