NYSTCE English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Practice Test

What does denotation refer to?

1. A word's emotional connection

2. A word's dictionary definition

3. A word's pronunciation

4. A word's cultural significance

The correct answer is: A word's dictionary definition

Denotation refers to the explicit or direct meaning of a word, which is typically found in a dictionary. It is the objective definition without any emotional or connotative associations that the word might carry. This understanding contrasts with the other concepts presented. While emotional connections, pronunciation, and cultural significance can all influence how a word is perceived in different contexts, denotation is specifically focused on the straightforward definition that describes what the word literally means. Understanding denotation is essential in language, especially in contexts like education, where clarity and precision in language use are often paramount.