Connotations are the implied meanings or associations that a word carries beyond its literal definition.
Think of it like this:
* Denotation is the dictionary definition of a word. It's the objective, literal meaning.
* Connotation is the subjective, emotional, or cultural meaning attached to a word. It's the feeling, image, or idea that the word evokes.
Here's an example:
* Denotation of "cheap": Low in price.
* Connotations of "cheap": It could suggest something of low quality, or something that's a bargain. It can have negative or positive connotations depending on the context.
Here's how connotations work in different scenarios:
* Literary works: Authors use words with specific connotations to create certain moods or atmospheres.
* Advertising: Companies use words with positive connotations to make their products seem desirable.
* Everyday language: We choose words based on their connotations to convey specific feelings or perspectives.
So, while connotations are related to feelings, they encompass a wider range of meanings and associations.