Denotation vs. Connotation Quiz

What is the denotation of a word?

• The emotional or cultural meaning attached to a word

• The literal, dictionary definition of a word

• The way a word sounds when spoken

• The history of a word’s origin

Which of the following best defines connotation?

• The grammatical function of a word

• The literal meaning of a word

• The emotional or cultural associations a word carries

• The spelling of a word

Which of the following is an example of denotation?

• The word "snake" meaning a type of reptile

• The word "snake" suggesting someone is untrustworthy

• The word "snake" making you feel scared

• The word "snake" reminding you of a story

Which sentence uses the word "home" with a connotation?

• She returned to her home at 5 PM.

• The word "home" refers to a place where someone lives.

• For him, "home" means comfort and safety.

• "Home" is a four-letter word.

Identify the denotation in the following sentence: "The rose is a type of flower."

• The rose symbolizes love.

• The rose is a type of flower.

• The rose is beautiful.

• The rose makes me happy.

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

• Her childish laughter filled the room.

• His childish behavior annoyed everyone.

• The childish drawing was colorful.

• The childish game was fun.

Compare denotation and connotation: Which statement is true?

• Denotation is always positive, while connotation is always negative.

• Denotation is the literal meaning; connotation is the emotional or cultural meaning.

• Denotation and connotation mean the same thing.

• Connotation is the dictionary definition; denotation is the feeling a word gives.

A student reads the word "dove" in a poem. The dictionary says a dove is a type of bird, but the student thinks of peace. What is the connotation of "dove" in this context?

• A type of bird

• A symbol of peace

• A loud animal

• A type of flower

A writer describes a character as "slender" instead of "skinny." What is the effect of this word choice in terms of connotation?

• "Slender" has a more positive connotation than "skinny."

• "Slender" and "skinny" have the same connotation.

• "Slender" has a negative connotation.

• "Slender" is the denotation of "skinny."

Read the following sentence: "The politician was described as a 'fox' by his opponents." Based on denotation and connotation, what does calling the politician a "fox" suggest?

• He is an animal.

• He is clever or sly.

• He is loud.

• He is friendly.