Question

Read the following pairs of words and think about how the connotation of each word differs from the denotation. EXPLAIN THE DIFFERENCE :
(1) cheap/inexpensive,
(2) skinny/slender,
(3) stubborn/persevering,
(4) aggressive/assertive, and
(5) lazy/relaxed.

Answer 1

1. Denotation: costly

Connotation: cheap suggests poor quality, and inexpensive does not

2. Denotation: underweight

Connotation: skinny suggests an unhealthy condition; slender is more positive

3. Denotation: to remain constant to a purpose

Connotation: stubborn suggests being unreasonable; persevering suggests acting with patience and commitment

4. Dennotation: bold and self-assured

Connotation: aggressive suggests hostility, while assertive suggests confidence

5. Dennotation: in a state of ease

Connotation: lazy suggested lack of motivation, while relaxed suggests resting

Answer 2

Denotation is the actual meaning of a word, what you would find in a dictionary description for that particular word. On the other hand, connotation refers to the feelings or emotions you relate to a particular word. For example:
(1) inexpensive is pretty neutral; but when you use cheap, it usually has a negative connotation
In all of these examples, the second word is the denotation, or rather neutral connotation, whereas the first word has a slight negative connotation.