Here's a breakdown:
* Denotation: This is the literal, dictionary definition of a word. It's the objective meaning.
* Connotation: This is the set of associations, feelings, and images that a word evokes. It's subjective and can vary depending on cultural context and personal experience.
Example:
* Denotation of "cheap": Low in price.
* Connotation of "cheap": This can range from "affordable" and "a good deal" to "inferior quality" and "tacky".
How Connotation Changes Meaning:
* Emotional Impact: Connotation adds an emotional layer to words, making them evoke feelings like joy, sadness, anger, or disgust.
* Subjectivity: Different people may have different connotations for the same word, based on their experiences and cultural background.
* Nuance: Connotation allows writers and speakers to express subtle shades of meaning and express their own perspective.
* Persuasion: Writers often use connotation to influence the reader's feelings about a topic or person.
In short, connotation adds a layer of complexity and emotional depth to language, allowing us to communicate beyond simple literal meaning.