Choosing the right word can make all the difference. Even words similar in meaning can end up being a compliment or a criticism depending on when you use them. Words can share a similar meaning (denotation), but the feelings associated with each (connotation) are very different.
Read the following sentence.
The baby was very clever. It already knew how to crawl into a room without making a sound.
How would the meaning of the sentence change if the author used the word “cunning” instead of word “clever”?
A
The baby would seem sneakier.
B
The baby would seem cuter.
C
The baby would seem stupider.
D
The baby would seem louder.
A. The baby would seem sneakier.
Using the word "cunning" instead of "clever" would give the impression that the baby is behaving in a more sly or deceitful manner, rather than simply exhibiting intelligence or skill. This would change the overall tone of the sentence to be more negative or suspicious.