Denotative Language and Factuality:
* Denotative language focuses on literal meanings. It's the dictionary definition of a word, avoiding figurative language or emotional connotations.
* Factuality requires accuracy and evidence. A statement is factual if it can be verified or proven.
Why it's NOT a Guarantee:
* Hidden assumptions and biases: Even with denotative language, the *choice* of words can still reveal hidden assumptions or biases. For example: "The candidate is very experienced." This uses denotative language, but "very" could be subjective.
* Misleading information: Denotative language can still be used to present false information. A statement like "The drug is 90% effective" could be true, but the context might be missing crucial details about side effects or the specific conditions it's effective for.
* Incomplete information: Denotative language can create a false sense of completeness. A statement like "The car is red" is factually correct, but it doesn't tell you anything about the car's condition, age, or other important features.
Conclusion:
While denotative language can contribute to factual statements, it's not a guarantee. It's essential to be aware of:
* The context: Consider the source, the intended audience, and the surrounding information.
* The potential for bias: Even seemingly neutral language can be used to manipulate or mislead.
* The need for verification: Always seek evidence and multiple perspectives before accepting a statement as factual.