Here's why:
* Denotation is the literal, dictionary definition of a word. It's the objective meaning, devoid of any emotions, associations, or subjective interpretations.
* A dictionary is specifically designed to provide the core meaning of words, which is the denotation.
Example:
* Word: "Blue"
* Denotation: The color of the clear sky, the ocean, or a certain type of flower.
* Connotation: Depending on the context, "blue" might evoke feelings of sadness, peace, or calmness.
In contrast:
* Connotation is the emotional or cultural associations that a word carries, which can vary from person to person. These are not found in a dictionary.