DENOTATION/CONNOTATION EXERCISE
1. For each pair of words and a phrase, list the one that is positive in the "Positive Connotation" (P)
category, the one that is negative in the "Negative Connotation"(N) category, and the phrase that is a
more neutral definition for both words in the "Denotation" (D) column.
1. gaze , look steadily stare
2. fragrance , odor , a smell sensed by the olfactory nerve
3. brainwash persuade , influence one way or another_
_, not on time , tardy
5. somewhat interested nosy , curious
6. lazily , without haste , leisurely
7. ask of someone , demand , request_
8. gathering , a large group , mob_
9. slim , skinny , less than average build
10. discuss with others debate , argue
11. observe watch , spy
12. a young age , youthful_ , immature
13. not having a care , irresponsible , carefree
14. unique not commonly found , strange
15. find , detect , snoop_
Positive Connotation
Denotation
Negative Connotation