Semantics Metalanguage P.4

Question 1

Denotation

Answer 1

The objective meaning of a word.

The denotation of hot is “having or giving off heat.”

Question 2

Connotation

Answer 2

The use of a word to suggest a different association than its literal meaning.

Blue is a colour, but it is also a word used to describe a feeling of sadness, as in:
“She’s feeling blue.”

Question 3

Euphemism

Answer 3

An appropriate expression used in the place of a phrase or words that may be found inappropriate or offensive.

“Passed away” instead of “died”
“Let go” instead of “fired”
“Make love” instead of “sex”

Question 4

Dysphemism

Answer 4

The substitution of a more offensive or disparaging word/phrase in place of a less offensive one.

“croaked” and “six feet under” are dysphemism’s for death.