A derogatory term expressing a negative connotation.

A derogatory term expressing a negative connotation.

• A. Negative
• B. Slur
• C. Insult
• D. Pejorative

Answer: (D)

Think of the term used to describe words that carry a demeaning, disapproving sense. A pejorative is exactly a word or expression that expresses contempt or deprecation toward someone or something. It signals a negative judgment built into the word itself, not just a general feeling or an insult thrown in the moment. That makes it the right fit for a description of a derogatory term with negative connotation. A negative is simply a broad way to describe sentiment and doesn’t name the linguistic category of the word. A slur is a kind of pejorative that targets a specific group, which is narrower than the general idea of a derogatory term. An insult refers to the act or speech intended to offend, rather than the inherent evaluative quality of the term itself. So the term that best captures a derogatory term with negative connotation is pejorative.

Think of the term used to describe words that carry a demeaning, disapproving sense. A pejorative is exactly a word or expression that expresses contempt or deprecation toward someone or something. It signals a negative judgment built into the word itself, not just a general feeling or an insult thrown in the moment. That makes it the right fit for a description of a derogatory term with negative connotation.

A negative is simply a broad way to describe sentiment and doesn’t name the linguistic category of the word. A slur is a kind of pejorative that targets a specific group, which is narrower than the general idea of a derogatory term. An insult refers to the act or speech intended to offend, rather than the inherent evaluative quality of the term itself. So the term that best captures a derogatory term with negative connotation is pejorative.