Here's a breakdown:
* Denotation: The literal, dictionary definition of a word. It's the objective meaning, without any emotional or subjective connotations.
* Connotation: The implied or associated meanings of a word, often based on emotions, personal experiences, or cultural context.
Example:
* Word: "Home"
* Denotation: A place of residence, a building where someone lives.
* Connotation: Warmth, comfort, safety, family, belonging.
Other factors that contribute to the meaning of a word:
* Context: The surrounding words and phrases can influence the meaning of a word.
* Part of speech: The grammatical function of a word can affect its meaning.
* Etymology: The history and origin of a word can provide insights into its meaning.
While denotation provides the fundamental meaning, connotation and other factors can add layers of nuance and complexity to the way we understand and interpret words.