Choosing the Right Words Connotations and Denotation

Think of words as superheroes.

Think of words as superheroes. They appear ordinary most of the time, but they have hidden powers.

Just as skilled artists need a palette of many colors, writers need a wide variety of words … … and writers need to harness the power of certain words to influence readers in subtle, but powerful ways.

Understanding the art of using connotations gives writers a persuasive edge.

Connotation vs. Denotation

Connotation vs. Denotation Denotation - The exact, literal meaning of a word Connotation - The unspoken, hidden meaning that gives a word more emotional impact

Connotation vs. Denotation Denotation - The exact, literal meaning of a word “The family sat together in front of a warm fire.” The denotative or literal interpretation of warm = nearly hot (actual temperature)

Connotation vs. Denotation Connotation - The unspoken, hidden meaning that gives a word more emotional impact “The family sat together in front of a warm fire.” The connotative or figurative interpretation of warm = comforting; friendly (mood/tone)

Connotations A connotation gives the reader or listener a distinct impression or feeling, calling on emotion rather than fact. Through their connotations, words set a tone and can reveal hidden opinions, attitudes, or judgments.

Connotations In the following examples, notice how synonyms have slightly different meanings, revealing a variety of connotations.

Mrs. Darcy knows the answers to questions no one else can answer.

She might be called informed. Mrs. Darcy knows the answers to questions no one else can answer. She might be called informed.

She might be called confident. Mrs. Darcy knows the answers to questions no one else can answer. She might be called confident.

She might be called conceited. Mrs. Darcy knows the answers to questions no one else can answer. She might be called conceited.

Mrs. Darcy knows the answers to questions no one else can answer. informed confident conceited Which of these words has a neutral connotation and merely states a fact, without opinions or judgment?

Mrs. Darcy knows the answers to questions no one else can answer. informed Which of these words has a neutral connotation and merely states a fact, without opinions or judgment?

Mrs. Darcy knows the answers to questions no one else can answer. informed confident conceited Which of these words has a positive connotation and could be considered a compliment?

Mrs. Darcy knows the answers to questions no one else can answer. confident Which of these words has a positive connotation and could be considered a compliment?

Mrs. Darcy knows the answers to questions no one else can answer. informed confident conceited Which of these words has a negative connotation and could be taken as criticism?

Mrs. Darcy knows the answers to questions no one else can answer. conceited Which of these words has a negative connotation and could be taken as criticism?

Home, House, or Residence? Which word connotes comfort and security?

Home, House, or Residence? Which word connotes comfort and security?

Home, House, or Residence? Which word connotes a formal or legal tone?

Home, House, or Residence? Which word connotes a formal or legal tone?

Home, House, or Residence? Which word connotes an impersonal structure?

House Home, House, or Residence? Which word connotes an impersonal structure? House

Thin, Skinny, Slender, or Scrawny? Which word has no connotation and simply denotes a neutral description?

Thin, Skinny, Slender, or Scrawny? Which word has no connotation and simply denotes a neutral description? Thin

Thin, Skinny, Slender, or Scrawny? Which word connotes a desirable or admirable trait?

Slender Thin, Skinny, Slender, or Scrawny? Which word connotes a desirable or admirable trait? Slender

Thin, Skinny, Slender, or Scrawny? Which word connotes an extreme insult implying weakness?

Scrawny Thin, Skinny, Slender, or Scrawny? Which word connotes an extreme insult implying weakness? Scrawny

Thin, Skinny, Slender, or Scrawny? Which word connotes a slight insult about being underweight?

Skinny Thin, Skinny, Slender, or Scrawny? Which word connotes a slight insult about being underweight? Skinny

Connotations Try it on your own! Here are more examples showing how synonyms describing the same thing can have different meanings. The differences are subtle, yet the words have suggestive, persuasive powers that will influence readers.

Which word has a connotation of criticism? lazy or relaxed? Which word has a connotation of criticism?

Which word has a tastier connotation? juicy or greasy? Which word has a tastier connotation?

Review…

Remember the difference? Denotation vs. Connotation Remember the difference?

Denotation - The exact, literal meaning of a word Connotation - The unspoken, hidden meaning that gives a word more emotional impact