Question

Is this a more negative connotation or less negative connotation, The candidate tried hard not to vilify or slander his opponent in the press.

Answer 1

The phrase "tried hard not to vilify or slander his opponent" carries a more negative connotation. While it indicates that the candidate made an effort to avoid negative behavior, the use of words like "vilify" and "slander" implies that such actions are expected or common in the context of political campaigns. It suggests that there is a temptation or pressure to engage in such negative behavior, which can cast a negative light on the political atmosphere as a whole.