Here's a breakdown:
* Denotation: The literal, dictionary definition of a word.
* Connotation: The implied or suggested meaning of a word, based on its associations and context.
Examples:
* Home:
* Denotation: A place of residence.
* Connotation: Comfort, warmth, family, security.
* Cheap:
* Denotation: Low in price.
* Connotation: Poor quality, shoddy, undesirable.
* Dog:
* Denotation: A domesticated canine.
* Connotation: Loyalty, faithfulness, companionship.
Key points about connotation:
* Subjective: Connotations can vary depending on personal experience, culture, and context.
* Figurative: Connotations often rely on metaphors, similes, and other literary devices.
* Powerful: Connotations can evoke strong emotions and influence the reader's understanding.
Using connotation effectively:
* Writers and speakers use connotation to:
* Create vivid imagery.
* Evoke emotions.
* Persuade readers or listeners.
* Establish a specific tone.
Examples of connotation in literature:
* "The wind howled like a banshee." (Connotation of the word "wind" is danger and fear.)
* "Her eyes were like stars." (Connotation of "stars" is beauty and brilliance.)
By understanding connotation, we can appreciate the nuances of language and how words can shape our understanding of the world.