CONNOTATION
The most important thing to consider when choosing your words is
the meaning you wish to convey. In stating your idea you must
first consider the basic meaning you have in mind. Then you may
usually choose from a number of synonyms for the same basic
meaning. In choosing the exact word, however, you must consider
the connotation of the words. CONNOTATION concerns all the
suggestive or associative implications attached to a given word.
You must decide if the connotation of a word matches the meaning
you wish to convey.
Here are some synonyms and antonyms of "fat." Which are
complimentary? Which are insulting? Which have a humorous
overtone?
Synonyms: portly, fleshy, obese, beefy, bulky, stout,
gross, rotund, pleasingly plump
Antonyms: gaunt, thin, wasted, lean, skinny, slender, slim,
slab-sided
Weak: feeble, invalid, meager, puny, frail, flimsy, fragile,
slight
Strong: brawny, vigorous, manly, sinewy, tough, firm,
husky, sturdy
When you write, choose words which exactly convey the meaning and
connotation you have in mind.
Exercise 1
In each item below, you will find three words with similar dictionary meanings. But each word in the set expresses a different shade of feeling. Arrange each set of items under the columns marked NEUTRAL, FAVORABLE, UNFAVORABLE.
1. lazy relaxed slow
2. prudent timid cowardly
3. mousy shy modest
4. out-of-date time-tested old
5. dignified stiff-necked reserved
6. stubborn persistent persevering
7. new newfangled up-to-date
8. thrifty miserly parsimonious
9. self-confident proud conceited
10. curious nosy concerned
Exercise 2
Connotation plays a big role in the search for the "right word." In
certain contexts, a word's connotation can clash with the picture
presented. In each of the sentences below, one word obviously clashes
with the picture presented. Cross out this word, write in a more
appropriate synonym.
1. The Senator introduced his mommy to the guests.
2. The Baroness delicately slurped her soup.
3. Paul flung down his napkin and pranced out.
4. The United Nations assembly recessed for chow.
5. Carol is a very dear acquaintance of mine.
6. John Wayne and Lee Marvin were pretty he-men.
7. Aspirins haven't helped to heal my headache.
8. Your teacup is filled to the brink.
9. The gale winds hurt several houses in the area.
10. The orchestra commander tapped for silence.
Exercise 3
Each of the following sentences has a pair of words with roughly similar dictionary definitions. One word in the pair is appropriate for the context of the sentence, while the other word is out of place. Underline the appropriate word. Be prepared to discuss why the other word is out of place.
1. Snakes (junk, shed) their skins periodically.
2. The farmer (butchered, executed) livestock to feed his family.
3. The mother gave her baby a tender (smirk, smile).
4. The tortoise crept along at an agonizingly slow (velocity, speed).
5. Even the coolest star in the heavens is unbelievably (sultry, hot).
6. Snerdly (stole, pilfered) $50,000 from his employer.
7. The horse (loped, sprinted) at top speed for 200 yards.
8. The French are (noted, notorious) for their fine food.