Question

word study denotative, connotative, and figurative meanings
the denotative meaning of a word is its basic meaning—generally, the first definition you would find in a dictionary. many words also have connotative meanings—feelings and ideas that the words suggest. some words can also be used figuratively. the figurative meaning of a word is a meaning other than the exact, literal definition. in other words, it is a symbolic or metaphorical meaning.
example: beacon
denotative meaning: a light that serves as a signal to warn or guide ships
connotative meaning: a light in the darkness; a person or thing that gives hope
figurative meaning: a source of inspiration
when you come across a word that has different layers of meaning, use context clues to determine which meaning applies. to clarify meanings, check a dictionary.
a. directions: match each word on the left with its denotative and connotative meanings on the right. write the letter of the correct definition on the line.

1. ____ dependent

a. denotative: the smell of something
connotative: an unpleasant or offensive smell; stench

1. ____ odor

b. denotative: giving off a lot of light
connotative: uplifting; sunny; giving hope and clarity

1. ____ bright

c. denotative: having to rely on someone or something else
connotative: refusing to care for oneself; weak

Explanation:

1. The denotative meaning of "dependent" is having to rely on someone or something else, which matches with option c. Its connotative meaning in option c (refusing to care for oneself, weak) is also a common - associated feeling.
2. The denotative meaning of "odor" is the smell of something, which is option a. The connotative meaning (an unpleasant or offensive smell; stench) in option a is also appropriate.
3. The denotative meaning of "bright" is giving off a lot of light, which is option b. The connotative meaning (uplifting; sunny; giving hope and clarity) in option b is a common associated feeling.

Answer:

1. c
2. a
3. b