Connotation and Denotation

vocabulary mini-lesson

Definitions

n  Denotation - the strict dictionary definition of a word

n  Connotation – the various feelings, images, and memories that surround a word

Example #1

n  Denotations (definitions): n  House – a dwelling place n  Home – a dwelling place

n  Connotation (feelings, images associated): n  When I think of a “house,” I think more of the

building I live in. n  When I think of a “home,” I think of safety, security,

privacy, and a loving family. n  What are your connotations of “house” and “home?”

Example #2 n  Annette was surprised. n  Annette was startled. n  Annette was shocked.

n  These words have approximately the same denotation, and yet would we use the words in the same ways?

n  When would you use “surprised?” “Startled?” “Shocked?”

Positive and Negative Connotations

n  Here are several words that people might use for the word “car”: n  Positive connotation - automobile, vehicle, hot

rod, wheels, ride, convertible n  Negative connotation – boat, heap, gas

guzzler, clunker, junker

More Examples n  Which of the words in the following pairs

have a more positive connotation? n  bargain-shopper or cheap n  pushy or aggressive n  politician or statesman n  chef or cook n  slender or skinny