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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Connotation and Denotation?

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The difference between connotation and denotation lies in the meanings and associations related to words or expressions:

  • Denotation refers to the literal definition of a word or expression, its direct meaning, and the object or concept it stands for. Denotation is the primary, explicit meaning it has in the dictionary and is often referred to as the "dictionary definition".
  • Connotation refers to the ideas or meanings associated with a word or expression, the global and personal associations it carries. Connotations can be subjective and vary based on individual experiences and cultures. They can have negative, neutral, or positive implications on a term.

For example, consider the word "sick":

  • Denotation: Poor health
  • Connotation: Impressive or exciting

In another example, a four-leaf clover:

  • Denotation: A trifolium clover with four leaves
  • Connotation: A good luck charm

In summary, denotation represents the objective, literal meaning of a word or expression, while connotation refers to the subjective, emotional, or cultural associations it evokes.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Connotation and Denotation?
  • Comparative Table: Connotation vs Denotation

    • Comparative Table: Connotation vs Denotation

    Here is a table illustrating the difference between connotation and denotation:

    Feature Denotation Connotation
    Meaning Refers to the literal meaning of a word, which is found in the dictionary. Refers to the broad range of positive and negative associations that a word conveys, including personal associations, emotions, and feelings.
    Example The word "vintage" has a denotation meaning "made a long time ago". The word "vintage" has a connotation meaning "an old style that's popular again".
    Association Denotation is the basic conceptual reflection of the word. Connotation indicates the facet of the word's meaning that generates out of association in the user's mind with their own abstract ideas and values.
    Primary/Secondary Explanation Denotation refers to the direct or primary explanation of a word. Connotation refers to the secondary or connected explanation of a word.

    In summary, denotation is the literal meaning of a word, while connotation is the emotional, contextual meaning linked to a word. Denotation can be found in the dictionary, whereas connotation represents the emotions, feelings, or ideas that come to mind when you read or listen to a word.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.