Ross and Emma have been dating for a few months. One evening, Ross tells Emma he loves her, by which he means he likes spending time with her and enjoys her company. Emma understands this word to mean Ross is going to stay with her forever and she can plan on a long-term commitment. Which term refers to a difference in meaning, like that of the word love?
A) Definition
B) Arbitrary
C) Denotative
D) Connotative

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The term "connotative" refers to the difference in meaning or the association that a word brings beyond its literal (or denotative) meaning. In this scenario, "love" has a basic denotation but carries different connotations for Ross and Emma, leading to their misunderstanding.

Ross and Emma Have Been Dating for a Few Months