Connotation

#Connotation

#Denotation

Connotation is the set of emotional, cultural, or associative meanings that a word or expression carries, beyond its strict dictionary definition (denotation).

1. Denotation vs. Connotation

• Denotation: The literal, objective meaning.

• “Rose” a type of flower.

• Connotation:

The additional feelings, values, or ideas people associate with it.

• “Rose” love, beauty, passion, sometimes pain (because of thorns).

2. Types of Connotation

• Positive: “Slim” connotes elegance.

• Negative: “Skinny” connotes weakness or unattractiveness.

• Neutral: “Thin” more descriptive, less emotional.

3. Examples

• Home

•Denotation: a dwelling where someone lives.

Connotation: warmth, family, safety, belonging

• Snake

• Denotation: a reptile.

• Connotation: danger, betrayal, slyness.

• Freedom

• Denotation: the state of being free.

Connotation: independence, pride, responsibility.

4. Why It Matters

Literature: Authors choose words for their connotative power to evoke mood and symbolism.

Advertising & Politics: Word choice shapes emotional response. (e.g., “tax relief” vs. “tax cut”).

Everyday Communication: Misunderstandings often arise when people respond to connotations rather than denotations.

In short:

Connotation = emotional or cultural “baggage” a word carries, beyond its dictionary meaning.