Word Comprehension Flashcards
Adage
A pithy phrase or saying people adopt over time because they believe it holds some validity or truth.
“You can judge a book by its cover.”
What are compound words?
Two words that combine to create a new word with a different meaning. Firefly, rainbow,
Connotative words
Refers to the implied meaning of words and depends on context to be properly understood “happy” vs “blissful”
Denotative words
Words that are specific in meaning lacking connotative overtones, like “table”
Idiom
Colorful expression. Figure of speech whose meaning is not literal.
“I’ve got a bone to pick with you.”
Figurative language
Author’s use of a word or phrase not intended to be taken literally.
Metaphor
Type of figurative language. When author compares two things by substituting one object for another to suggest likeness between the two.
“I have a cast-iron stomach.”
Simile
When author uses “like” or “as” in a comparison.
You are as pretty as the morning sun.
Which word is connotative?
It was a bittersweet moment.
Bittersweet as it suggests a particular emotion
Synonym
Words that have same or similar meaning
Movies/films
Antonym
Words that have opposite meanings
Fat/thin
Homophone
Words that sound alike but are spelled differently and have different definitions
Rain/reign
Homonym
Words that sound alike but have different definitions. They are sometimes, but not always spelled differently.
I saw the saw.
Homograph
One word, different definitions and pronunciations
The tear in my shirt brought a tear to my eye.
Affect/Effect
Affect: Usually a verb meaning to influence.
Effect: usually a noun meaning a result
