Connotation and Denotation

Denotation Denotation refers to the dictionary definition of a word. Many different words share a denotation

Connotation Connotation is additional layers of meaning that include the cultural context or feelings associated with that word. Context is important here!

An Example Denotation Connotation Define house Define home Now consider the emotions associated with each idea.

Link to Author’s Purpose / Theme Authors choose specific words carefully so that they help them achieve their purpose.

Some Practice Arrange the list of words in order from the most positive to the most negative: slender, skinny, lean, beanpole pretty, beautiful, fair, attractive automobile, car, jalopy, hot rod dull, ugly, plain

More Practice For each word listed with a negative connotation, think of at least one word that is more positive: Punk Stubborn Fight Retarded Chick Slut

More Practice Which words in the following sentences have the same denotation? The thrifty shopper uses coupons. The stingy billionaire won’t make a donation. Which one would you prefer to be described as? Why?

Context is Important! What is the denotative and connotative meaning of wise? Consider the following sentences: Wise men give the best advice. Those kids are a bunch of wise guys.

More Context Describe the connotation of each underlined word. We enjoyed hearing the pastor preach at church last week. Please don’t preach to me about my bad eating habits. I found that book quite interesting. I told my sister that her bright green purse was “interesting.”

Another Link Use of words with a specific connotation can help to create tone/mood! Tone and mood also help an author build toward his purpose

Connotation in ASP Consider connotation, tone, mood, author’s purpose. “It had loomed in my memory” (5) “Boys ambled past our door” (12) “The bell sounded ten stately times” (12)