To solve this task, we need to understand the difference between
connotation and
denotation:
-
Denotation is the literal or dictionary definition of a word.
-
Connotation is the emotional or cultural association that a word carries beyond its literal meaning.
Now, let’s go through each sentence and identify whether the highlighted word is used in a connotative or denotative way.
---
1.
Kevin stopped drinking the business, saying only *dumb* people could succeed in it.
- “Dumb” here is used to mean “stupid” or “unintelligent,” which is a negative emotional association. This is
connotation.
2.
Volunteers were *evacuating* people trapped under the debris after the earthquake.
- “Evacuating” means to remove people from a dangerous place. This is its literal meaning. This is
denotation.
3.
I wonder why people who do great, generous deeds are often too *meek* about it.
- “Meek” here suggests humility or modesty, which has a positive emotional tone. This is
connotation.
4.
After attending the one-week seminar at Dr. Clark’s, I have become a highly *dedicated* individual.
- “Dedicated” means committed or devoted. This is its literal meaning. This is
denotation.
5.
The song was *piping* and filled with beautiful lyrics, so I was very *content* on that cold day.
- “Piping” here likely means sounding pleasant or melodious, which is an emotional association. “Content” means satisfied or happy, which is also an emotional state. Both are
connotation.
6.
Several days of *meticulous* preparation have gone into completing this assignment.
- “Meticulous” means showing great attention to detail. This is its literal meaning. This is
denotation.
7.
When he was paid his first salary, he felt *proud* of himself.
- “Proud” here means feeling satisfaction or self-respect, which is an emotional state. This is
connotation.
8.
The place was *crowded* full of people who were waiting to board the bus.
- “Crowded” means filled with many people. This is its literal meaning. This is
denotation.
9.
The call was *desperate* loud, but it was too late to try and save them.
- “Desperate” here suggests urgency or extreme need, which is an emotional association. This is
connotation.
10.
Will you please *pour* me a glass of cold milk?
- “Pour” means to transfer liquid from one container to another. This is its literal meaning. This is
denotation.
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Final Answer:
1. Connotation
2. Denotation
3. Connotation
4. Denotation
5. Connotation
6. Denotation
7. Connotation
8. Denotation
9. Connotation
10. Denotation
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of denotation connotation worksheet.
