Here's a breakdown:
* Formality: This refers to the level of formality of the language used. Formal connotations suggest a more elevated and polished style, often used in academic writing, official documents, or formal speeches.
* Seriousness: Formal connotations imply a seriousness of purpose and a lack of flippancy or informality.
* Elegance: This refers to the beauty and refinement of the language, often characterized by complex sentence structures, sophisticated vocabulary, and a graceful flow.
Examples:
* Formal: "The esteemed professor delivered a learned dissertation on the subject of astrophysics." (Learned has a formal connotation, suggesting a deep knowledge and authority on the topic)
* Informal: "The professor gave a smart lecture on space stuff." (Smart is more informal and doesn't carry the same level of formality as learned)
Here are some other words with strong formal connotations:
* Elegant
* Sophisticated
* Refined
* Exquisite
* Prestigious
* Authoritative
* Erudite
* Eloquent
In contrast, informal connotations suggest a more casual, relaxed, and often conversational tone.
Understanding formal connotations helps you choose the appropriate language for different situations and audiences. It allows you to communicate effectively and maintain the desired level of formality in your writing or speech.