What’s the difference between a word’s literal meaning (denotation) and its associated meaning (connotation)?
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Hello @234795,
A word’s denotation is usually the first thing that comes to mind when the word is mentioned. It’s what you would find as the first entry in the dictionary. Connotation refers to associated meanings, and since people attribute values to certain words and concepts, you usually hear people refer to a word’s “negative” or “positive” connotation. Take the word “adult” for example. It’s denotation is “fully grown” (animal, person, plant etc.), but one of it’s “connotations” is “suitable for mature audiences only” like when it’s used in expressions such as “adult content.” So, connotation often functions as a euphemistic tool. Hope that helps!
Best,
Oumar
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Thank you so much for the explanation, I really understand the difference between denotation and connotation now.
I just have a question: does every word have a connotation, or are there words that only have a denotation?
For example, does the word ‘desk’ have a connotation, or just its literal meaning?"
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Hi @234795,
You’re most welcome! I’m glad I could help. I personally believe that some words don’t have connotation. For example, when you look at the STEM fields, you’ll find terms that only refer to one specific thing. For instance, look at terms like “square root” and “lactic acid.” But because of our ability to borrow, modify, co-opt, and re-invent words, it is rare to come across a word that doesn’t have several meanings. Look at the word “mouse;” for centuries it referred to a small rodent, but now it also refers to that device we use to move a cursor on a computer. The word “desk” has at least a couple of connotations, such as the “sports desk” which is the section of a newspaper that deals with sports (it doesn’t necessarily have to have a literal, physical desk), and the “reception desk” or “check-in desk” at airports, hospitals, offices, banks, hotels etc. For this last example, there’s usually a desk or counter, but the word “desk” doesn’t really refer to the actual desk, so it’s a connotation. Hope that clarifies it!
Best,
Oumar
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Thank you for clarifying this further. The examples were very helpful and made the idea much clearer.
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You’re very welcome! It was my pleasure. I’m happy you found the examples helpful. Enjoy the rest of the weekend!
Best,
Oumar
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Hi;
Using connotative language, thereby, words associated with feelings, are better for faithful translation and translating meaning, not word-for-word, which is the literal translation.
Analia
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What is the difference between denotation and connotation?
ln your opinion How does connotation affect the meaning of a word in different contexts?
Please support your view with examples.
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The literal meaning of word (denotation), is its objective, dictionary-defined sense. For exemple, ¨house¨ denotes simply a place to live.
The associated meaning (connotation), is the emotional, symbolic, or cultural value the word may carry. For exemple ¨house¨can connote warmth, safety or family.
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