Here's a more detailed description:
* Beyond the dictionary: Connotation refers to the feelings, ideas, or associations that a word evokes, in addition to its literal meaning.
* Cultural and personal: Connotations can vary depending on individual experiences, cultural background, and social context.
* Positive, negative, or neutral: Words can have positive, negative, or neutral connotations. For example, "cheap" can have a negative connotation of low quality, while "affordable" has a more positive connotation of being reasonably priced.
* Figurative language: Connotations are often used in figurative language like metaphors, similes, and personification to add depth and richness to writing.
Examples:
* Home: The literal meaning is a place of residence, but it can also connote feelings of warmth, safety, and belonging.
* Cheap: Can connote low quality, but also affordability.
* Dog: Can connote loyalty, but also aggression depending on the breed.
In essence, connotation is the "flavor" a word carries beyond its dictionary definition, enriching our understanding of language and adding nuance to communication.