Denotation
What Is Denotation? (with Examples)
Denotation is the literal meaning of a word. (You can think of denotation as the dictionary definition of a word.)Denotation contrasts with connotation, which refers to the feelings or ideas suggested by a word.
So, the literal meaning of a word is the word's denotation, and the non-literal meaning of a word (e.g., based on an implication or a shared emotional association) is the word's connotation.
Examples of Denotation and Connotation for the Same Word
Here are some examples of denotation and connotation associated with the same word:Word | Denotation | Connotation |
---|---|---|
Fox | Red small wild dog | Attractive lady |
Greasy | Covered in grease | Creepy |
Snake | Long legless reptile | Untrustworthy person |
Positive and Negative Connotations of Words with Similar Denotations
Here are some examples of words with a similar denotation but very different connotations:Word with a Positive Connotation | Word with a Negative Connotation | Approximate Denotation of Both |
---|---|---|
Slender | Skinny | Thin |
Assertive | Domineering | Forceful |
Meticulous | Nitpicking | Thorough |
Economical | Tight fisted | Cost-effective |
Youthful | Childish | Young |
Tenacious | Stubborn | Persistent |
Unassuming | Plain | Normal |
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