Definition Essays

Two Types of Definition The literal definition you can find in the dictionary. The overtones, suggestions, and feelings associated with a word that go beyond the dictionary meaning Denotative: Connotative:

CONNOTATION The next slides give you an example of both a positive and negative connotation for the neutral word Inactive (denotation definition= “not active”)

Inactive Negative Connotation: LAZY

Inactive Positive Connotation: RESTING

Choose the more POSITIVE connotation We saw ____ animals at the zoo’s animal house. Fascinating OR Weird?

We saw fascinating animals at the zoo’s animal house.

Choose the more POSITIVE connotation Everyone had a _____ on his or her face. Smile OR Smirk?

Everyone had a smile on his or her face.

Choose the more NEGATIVE connotation We bought ____ souvenirs at the beach. Cheap OR Inexpensive?

We bought cheap souvenirs at the beach.

Choose the more NEGATIVE connotation Sarah___ Mike to go to the store. Nagged OR Reminded?

Sarah nagged Mike to go to the store.