Arkansas Foundations of Reading Test (FORT)

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What is the denotative meaning of a word?

Literal meaning of the word
Connotative associations of the word
Emotional value of the word
Synonyms of the word

The correct answer is: Literal meaning of the word

The denotative meaning of a word refers to its literal meaning, which is the primary or dictionary definition that specifies what the word directly signifies without any emotional association or additional implications. This meaning is objective and is not influenced by personal feelings or cultural contexts. For example, the denotative meaning of the word "snake" refers specifically to a legless reptile, while connotative meanings could include feelings of danger or deceit. Understanding denotation is crucial for clear communication, as it helps to ensure that all parties share the same understanding of a term's fundamental meaning.