Denotation vs. Connotation
The Meanings of Words
Emotive Language & Persuasion
Critical Thinking & Defining Terms
Thinking Critically About Evidence
100

This term refers to the literal, dictionary definition of a word.

What is denotation?

100

This type of meaning focuses on dictionary definition.

What is semantic meaning?

100

This type of language is designed to influence feelings rather than logic.

What is emotive language?

100

This kind of definition explains a term clearly and objectively.

What is a precise definition?

100

This type of evidence comes from qualified experts or scholars.

What is expert testimony?

200

This type of meaning includes emotional or cultural associations attached to a word.

What is connotation?

200

This meaning depends on how words are arranged in a sentence.

What is syntactic meaning?

200

This rhetorical technique appeals to emotion instead of reason.

What is emotional appeal?

200

This flawed definition uses emotional language to influence opinion.

What is an emotive definition?

200

This characteristic makes a source trustworthy and reliable.

What is credibility?

300

Calling something “slender” instead of “skinny” primarily changes this.

What is tone?

300

This type of meaning is shaped by context and speaker intention.

What is pragmatic meaning?

300

This is an example of emotionally loaded wording used to persuade.

What is biased language?

300

This error occurs when a word is defined using the word itself.

What is a circular definition?

300

This distinguishes proven information from personal belief.

What is verifiability?

400

Two words with the same denotation but different emotional impact illustrate this concept.

What is connotative difference?

400

This meaning involves emotional associations tied to a word.

What is perceptual meaning?

400

This kind of language can weaken an argument by reducing logical credibility.

What is manipulation?

400

Defining key terms helps avoid this problem in arguments.

What is ambiguity?

400

This process involves checking a source’s author, date, and evidence.

What is source evaluation?

500

This aspect of language shapes how audiences perceive meaning beyond facts.

What is word choice?

500

According to the lecture, words have this many major types of meaning.

What are four?

500

Critical thinkers should identify this when analyzing persuasive messages.

What is rhetorical bias?

500

This skill allows individuals to evaluate definitions logically and fairly.

What is analytical reasoning?

500

This habit helps individuals avoid being misled by language.

What is skepticism?

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