1. Connotation vs. Denotation
Almost every word has two kinds of meanings…
Denotation:
the straightforward dictionary definition
Connotation:
the ideas and feelings associated with the word

2. There are three types of connotations:
a. POSITIVE – a good thing
b. NEGATIVE – a bad thing
c. NEUTRAL- not good or bad; indifferent; used when you or the author don’t want to show strong emotions either way

3. For Example Positive Neutral Negative That’s a glamorous necklace.
That’s a nice necklace.
That’s a gaudy necklace.
The model was slender.
The model was thin.
The model was scrawny.

4. Practice
Look at the following pairs of words. Each pair might have similar denotations, or dictionary definitions. However, identify how their connotations are different. Is the connotation positive, negative, or neutral?
firm or stubborn
flexible or wishy-washy
original or weird
scholar or bookworm
arrogant or proud

5. Connotation and Tone
The words that an author chooses to use in an article can give you a clue as to the author’s tone.
Tone is the way that the author feels about the subject.
If the author uses words with negative connotations, then you know the author feels negatively towards the subject. So, the tone would also be negative.

6. Take Justin Bieber for example…
One news article describes Justin using words such as “childish” and “immature.” Would you say that the tone here is positive, negative, or neutral?
Another article describes him as “youthful” and “fresh.” What is the tone here?
And what about the author who says Justin is “inexperienced” and “young”? What is his tone towards the singer?