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

ExamplesHouse – implies a building

Home – implies a place of warmth and family

ExampleChair – 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.