1. Denotation and Connotation
Words are What We Make Them

2. Denotation Denotation = Dictionary Definition Example
Definition: A word’s denotation—or denotative meaning—is its literal definition. It is neutral.
Denotation = Dictionary Definition
Example
Snake: a limbless reptile with a long, scaly body.

3. Connotation
Definition: A word’s connotation—or connotative meaning—is the attitudes and feelings associated with a word. May be positive or negative Example Snake: “snake in the grass,” symbol of evil, slimy, liar

4. The denotative definition is based on the literal definition of a word.
The connotative definition is the figurative or emotional meaning of a word.

5. Connotation
Connotation can change from person to person, depending on their individual association with that word.
When a biologist hears the word “snake,” she might think of the rare Indigo snake she felt lucky to see during her last research trip. Positive connotation.
When a man on death row hears the word “chair,” he might break into a cold sweat. Negative connotation.

6. Connotation Positive Negative
We bought inexpensive souvenirs at the amusement park.
I ate a moist sandwich.
I am a bargain shopper.
Negative
We bought cheap souvenirs at the amusement park.
I ate a soggy sandwich.
I am a cheapskate.

7. Negative or Positive?
For the following words, come up with a word with a positive connotation and a negative connotation Positive Negative Short _________ _________ Not smart _________ _________ Self focused _________ _________ Not funny _________ _________ Non-athletic _________ _________

8. PRACTICE For the following words. Write down the denotative
and connotative meanings
Home
Cockroach
School
Halloween