Chapter 3 - Language

Writing that us vague commits which of the following errors? a) it uses words that do not clearly convey a precise meaning to readers b) it included a word whose meaning does not fit with the message c) it arranges words in a sentence in ways obscure the meaning d) it does not specify which meaning of a particular word is intended

a) it uses words that do not clearly convey a precise meaning to readers

Which statement is an example of semantic ambiguity? a) there is a bat in the corner b) the intruder threatened the student with the backpack c) Mary had children for lunch d) he told us on Tuesday there would be a test

a) there is a bat in the corner

What is the difference between a denotative meaning and a connotative meaning? a) a connotative meaning is based on how a word relates to other words, while a denotative meaning is subjective b) A denotative meaning is the literal definition of a word, while a connotative meaning refers to unspoken ideas or feelings. c) A denotative meaning is metaphorical, while a connotative meaning refers to precise synonyms for a word. d) A connotative meaning would be found in a dictionary definition, while a denotative meaning is often imagined.

b) A denotative meaning is the literal definition of a word, while a connotative meaning refers to unspoken ideas or feelings.

Which phrase is an example of using a proof surrogate? a) she has gone to a better place... b) all the best people agree on this theory... c) this product fight unsightly stains... d) i am sure you have a very good reason

b) all the best people agree on this theory...

What is the syntactic meaning of a word based on? a) the feelings or ideas associated with the word b) how the word relates to other words around it c) the dictionary definition of the word d) the situation in which the word is used

b) how the word relates to other words around it

Which language tactic involves implying something without actually saying it directly? a) weasel words b) innuendo c) proof surrogate d) dysphemism

b) innuendo

What does the tone of a piece of writing communicate? a) the central source of conflict in a text b) the writers feelings and emotional response c) the readers reaction to a topic d) the audiences understanding of an issue

b) the writers feelings and emotional response

What is the BEST explanation of the pragmatic meaning of a word? a) the connection among all the words appearing in the sentence b) the words literal definition, as found in the dictionary c) the context in which the word is used, including the speaker and situation d) the unspoken associations and feelings that a word brings to mind

c) the context in which the word is used, including the speaker and situation

Which of the following BEST defines emotive language? a) words that describe feelings and are used to create imagery for a reader b) words that have multiple meanings and usages that are all different c) words with string connotations that attempt to evoke an emotional response d) words that become unclear when arranged in a certain pattern

c) words with string connotations that attempt to evoke an emotional response

What is the purpose of a euphemism? a) to convey a more negative meaning in favor of one that is generally neutral b) to make an unsupported claim and avoid having to verify its accuracy to imply that there is evidence or support for a claim without actually revealing a source c) to make an unsupported claim and avoid having to verify its accuracy d) to convey meaning with a more positive or gentle expression rather than a harsh one

d) to convey meaning with a more positive or gentle expression rather than a harsh one