Connotation and Denotation Denotation n n Denotation refers

Connotation and Denotation

Denotation n n Denotation refers to the dictionary definition of a word. Many different words share a denotation

Connotation n n Connotation is additional layers of meaning that include the cultural context or feelings associated with that word. Context is important here!

An Example n Denotation n n Define house Define home n Connotation n Now consider the emotions associated with each idea.

Link to Author’s Purpose / Theme n Authors choose specific words carefully so that they help them achieve their purpose.

Some Practice n 1. 2. 3. 4. Arrange the list of words in order from the most positive to the most negative: slender, skinny, lean, beanpole pretty, beautiful, fair, attractive automobile, car, jalopy, hot rod dull, ugly, plain

More Practice n 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. For each word listed with a negative connotation, think of at least one word that is more positive: Punk Stubborn Fight Retarded Chick Slut

More Practice n Which words in the following sentences have the same denotation? n n n The thrifty shopper uses coupons. The stingy billionaire won’t make a donation. Which one would you prefer to be described as? Why?

Context is Important! n n What is the denotative and connotative meaning of wise? Consider the following sentences: n n Wise men give the best advice. Those kids are a bunch of wise guys.

More Context n 1. 2. 3. 4. Describe the connotation of each underlined word. We enjoyed hearing the pastor preach at church last week. Please don’t preach to me about my bad eating habits. I found that book quite interesting. I told my sister that her bright green purse was “interesting. ”

Another Link n n Use of words with a specific connotation can help to create tone/mood! Tone and mood also help an author build toward his purpose

Connotation in ASP n n Consider connotation, tone, mood, author’s purpose. “It had loomed in my memory” (5) “Boys ambled past our door” (12) “The bell sounded ten stately times” (12)