Prepare for the Arkansas Foundations of Reading Test (FORT) with our quiz. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each equipped with hints and explanations. Get ready to ace your exam!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.


What is the denotative meaning of a word?

  1. Literal meaning of the word

  2. Connotative associations of the word

  3. Emotional value of the word

  4. 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.