Question

Can you think of a time when the connotation of a word (or words) you used was interpreted with the wrong denotation or connotation, or when you misinterpreted a word`s connotation or denotation? Explain what happened and how you dealt with the confusion.

Answer 1

Answer:

Such confusion happened when I used the word frugal to describe myself.

Explanation:

When describing myself to a friend, I mentioned that I am frugal with the way I manage funds. The friend interpreted that to mean that I was a stingy person. For that reason, she refused to beg me for financial help when she had a need.

I dealt with the confusion by showing her the dictionary meaning of the word which is, sparing or economical as regards money or food. I further explained to her that being frugal did not mean that I was not generous, rather, it implied that I made careful thought over my finances and planned for it. She understood my explanation, and she ensured to inform me well ahead of time when she had a need.