Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature Practice Exam

Which of the following best describes denotation?

1. The emotional association of a word

2. The literal dictionary definition of a word

3. A figurative meaning of a term

4. The contextual meaning of a phrase

The correct answer is: The literal dictionary definition of a word

Denotation refers specifically to the literal, dictionary definition of a word, devoid of any emotional or associative meanings that may accompany it. It is the most straightforward interpretation of a term, focusing purely on its explicit meaning. For example, the denotation of the word "snake" is the reptile itself, without any additional connotations such as danger or deceit that may be implied in certain contexts. In contrast, the other options explore different aspects of meaning that are not part of denotation. Emotional associations, figurative meanings, and contextual interpretations all go beyond the literal definition. Therefore, recognizing denotation as the precise, objective meaning of a word helps in distinguishing it from these more nuanced layers of language.