Directions: Read each sentence below. Determine whether the underlined word is used in its denotative (literal/dictionary) meaning or its connotative (implied/emotional/suggestive) meaning. Write Connotative or Denotative.
1. I can't trust him; he's such a snake.
2. His actions lit a fire of hope in the hearts of many people.
3. After years of hard work, he finally earned the crown of success.
4. A violent storm hit the coastal village last night.
5. He has a cold personality and rarely shows emotion.
Answer (1)
To determine whether the underlined words are used with denotative or connotative meanings, we need to understand the difference between these two terms.
Denotative meaning refers to the literal, dictionary definition of a word. It is straightforward and lacks any emotional or cultural overtones.
Connotative meaning involves the emotions, associations, or secondary meanings that a word suggests. This often goes beyond the dictionary definition and includes the feelings or ideas that people might relate to the word.
Now, let's analyze each sentence:
"I can't trust him; he's such a snake."
Connotative. The word "snake" is not referring to the animal literally. Here, it is used to imply that the person is deceitful or untrustworthy, which is a common cultural association.
"His actions lit a fire of hope in the hearts of many people."
Connotative. The phrase "lit a fire" is used metaphorically to suggest that his actions inspired or encouraged hope, rather than literally setting something on fire.
"After years of hard work, he finally earned the crown of success."
Connotative. The "crown of success" implies achieving a high level of accomplishment and recognition, rather than literally receiving a physical crown.
"A violent storm hit the coastal village last night."
Denotative. This use of "storm" refers to the literal, meteorological event, fitting its dictionary meaning without additional emotions or implications.
"He has a cold personality and rarely shows emotion."
Connotative. The word "cold" here suggests a person who is unemotional or distant, using a metaphorical association rather than referring to temperature.
