Denotation and Connotation Quiz

Denotation is a word's ____________.

• literal meaning

• emotional meaning

• synonym

• antonym

Answer explanation

Denotation refers to a word's literal, dictionary definition, distinguishing it from connotation, which involves emotional meanings. Therefore, the correct choice is 'literal, dictionary definition'.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.4

CCSS.L.9-10.4C

Connotation is a word's ___________.

• synonym

• emotional meaning

• antonym

• Literal, dictionary definition.

Answer explanation

Connotation refers to the emotional meaning of a word, which goes beyond its literal definition. It encompasses the feelings and associations that a word evokes, making 'emotional meaning' the correct choice.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.5

CCSS.RI.9-10.4

CCSS.RL.9-10.4

Which word has a positive connotation?

• Cheap

• Economical

• Stingy

• Miserly

Answer explanation

The word 'economical' has a positive connotation, suggesting efficiency and cost-effectiveness. In contrast, 'cheap', 'stingy', and 'miserly' imply a negative attitude towards spending.

Which word has a negative connotation?

• Frugal

• Thrifty

• Penny-pinching

• Prudent

Answer explanation

The word 'penny-pinching' has a negative connotation, implying excessive frugality or stinginess. In contrast, 'frugal', 'thrifty', and 'prudent' generally have neutral or positive meanings.

What is the literal meaning of "snake"?

• A deceitful person

• A legless reptile

• A symbol of danger

• A treacherous act

Answer explanation

The denotation of the word "snake" refers to its literal meaning, which is "a legless reptile." The other options represent connotations or metaphorical uses of the word, not its primary definition.

What does the word "snake" imply when referring to a person?

• A legless reptile

• A deceitful person

• A symbol of wisdom

• A harmless creature

Answer explanation

The word "snake" carries a negative connotation when describing a person, implying deceitfulness or treachery. Thus, the correct choice is "A deceitful person," as it reflects this negative trait.

What does "snake" imply in "The politician was a snake in the grass"?

• Trustworthy

• Deceptive

• Courageous

• Friendly

Answer explanation

In this context, "snake" connotes deception. The phrase "snake in the grass" suggests someone who is treacherous and untrustworthy, indicating that the politician is likely to be deceitful rather than honest or friendly.

Which word has a more positive connotation: "childlike" or "childish"?

• Childlike

• Childish

• Both

• Neither

Answer explanation

"Childlike" refers to qualities of innocence and wonder, often viewed positively, while "childish" implies immaturity and is generally negative. Therefore, "childlike" has a more positive connotation.

Compare the emotional impact of "home" and "house."

• "Home" has a warmer, more emotional impact

• "House" has a warmer, more emotional impact

• Both have the same emotional impact

• Neither has an emotional impact

Answer explanation

The word "home" evokes feelings of warmth, safety, and belonging, making it emotionally impactful. In contrast, "house" refers to a physical structure, lacking the emotional resonance associated with personal experiences and memories.

Which word is more negative: "assertive" or "aggressive"?

• Assertive

• Aggressive

• Both equally negative

• Neither is negative

Answer explanation

The word 'aggressive' has a more negative connotation than 'assertive'. While 'assertive' implies confidence and self-assurance, 'aggressive' suggests hostility and a willingness to attack, making it more negative.