Transcript Connotation vs. Denotation

Connotation vs.
Denotation
Objective: Determine the meaning of words and
phrases as they are used in a text, including
connotative meanings.
Standard: I will pay attention to authors’ word
choice and determine the connotation of words in
text.
Connotation vs. Denotation
 Denotation – the literal dictionary definition of a word
 Connotation – The secondary meaning associated
feelings or images a word evokes in the reader
Examples
 House – implies a building
 Home – implies a place of warmth and family
Example
 Chair – implies a place to sit.
 Recliner – implies a cozy/comfortable place to sit
Does connotation matter?
 Imagine you are going on a first date with someone, and
they ask you in to meet their mom. Would it make a
difference to you if they asked you to come in to meet
their mommy instead? What about if they wanted you to
meet mama? How about meeting their mother??
Connotation is the
emotional connection
we add to our words!
Who cares about connotation?
 Authors often select their words carefully so that they
can convey a certain mood/tone with their writing.