Which option describes denotation? (1 point)
• the way a word is used in a sentence
• words that share the same meaning
• the dictionary definition of a word
• words that have opposite meanings
• the dictionary definition of a word
The option that describes denotation is:
• the dictionary definition of a word.
The option that describes denotation is: "the dictionary definition of a word." To understand denotation, it is helpful to know that words can have two types of meanings: denotation and connotation.
Denotation refers to the literal or dictionary definition of a word. It is the objective, straightforward meaning of a word that can be found in a dictionary. For example, the denotation of the word "dog" is "a domesticated carnivorous mammal that typically has a long snout, an acute sense of smell, non-retractable claws, and a barking, howling, or whining voice." This definition is the denotative meaning of "dog."
On the other hand, connotation refers to the subjective, emotional, or cultural associations that a word evokes. These associations can vary among individuals or different contexts. For example, while the denotation of the word "snake" may be "a long, legless reptile," its connotation can be negative, associated with deceit or danger.
In summary, denotation refers to the dictionary definition of a word, while connotation refers to the subjective or cultural associations that a word carries.