Connotation and Denotation
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Transcript Connotation and Denotation
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
Define house
Define home
Connotation
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
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4.
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
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6.
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
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2.
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4.
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)