Connotation

What is it?

• Denotation = the most basic meaning of a word (like in the dictionary)

• Connotation = emotional association with a word; an idea that is implied; the suggestion of a meaning for a word beyond what it directly described

Example

The words thin, scrawny, and slenderall have the same denotation, but the connotation of each word is very different.

Example

• Denotation: weighing less than average

• Connotation: thin: no emotional attachment

scrawny: negative (unattractive, weak, unhealthy)

slender: positive (attractive, shapely, healthy)

Make a Poster

I can’t believe Heather would date such a SLOB.

Denotation: lazyConnotation: negativeTo make it positive I could use“an inactive person”.

Must include: *Complete sentence containing chosen word*Connotation listed as positive or negative* New word choice to change connotation*Illustration of chosen word