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The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner
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Add 3,700 must-know words to your vocabulary.
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connotation

IPA:

How to pronounce connotation (audio)

Dictionary definition of connotation

The emotional or cultural associations and implications that a word carries with it, in addition to its literal or dictionary definition.
"She chose a name with a positive connotation for her new business."

Detailed meaning of connotation

Connotation can be positive, negative, or neutral, and it can vary depending on the context in which a word is used. For example, the word "home" has a positive connotation, evoking feelings of warmth, safety, and familiarity, while the word "prison" has a negative connotation, evoking feelings of confinement, restriction, and oppression. Understanding connotation is important in communication, particularly in writing and advertising, as it can be used to evoke specific emotions or associations in the audience. Additionally, connotation can also help people to understand the implications of a word or phrase that has a negative or positive connotation and take into consideration how it can impact the way the message is perceived by the audience.

Example sentences containing connotation

1. The word "freedom" has a powerful connotation of independence.
2. Her choice of words carried a negative connotation.
3. In poetry, connotation can add depth to verses.
4. The connotation of that phrase is quite positive.
5. The connotation of "home" varies from person to person.
6. He used language with a subtle connotation of nostalgia.

History and etymology of connotation

The noun 'connotation' finds its origins in Latin, where 'connotare' means 'to mark together' or 'to signify in addition to.' This Latin term combines 'con-' meaning 'together' and 'notare' meaning 'to mark' or 'to note.' The etymology of 'connotation' underscores the idea that words carry not only their literal or dictionary definitions but also additional layers of meaning, such as emotional, cultural, or implied associations. 'Connotation' represents the nuanced and subtle aspects of language, highlighting how words can evoke feelings, attitudes, or ideas beyond their straightforward definitions. This concept has become essential in the study of linguistics and communication, as it acknowledges the richness and complexity of language in conveying both denotative and connotative meanings.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the noun connotation:

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Further usage examples of connotation

1. The connotation of "success" motivates many people.
2. The word "innocence" has a pure connotation.
3. The connotation of the color red is often associated with passion.
4. The connotation of "rebellion" can be seen as both good and bad.
5. Understanding the connotation of slang terms is important.
6. The connotation of that word can be misleading.
7. Consider the connotation when choosing your words.
8. The connotation of "freedom" can differ between individuals.
9. The word "challenge" has a positive connotation for some.
10. Her name has a rich historical connotation.
11. The connotation of his message was unsettling.
12. He didn't realize the negative connotation of his remark.
13. The connotation of "success" is different for everyone.
14. The connotation of "silence" in the room was eerie.
15. She carefully selected words with positive connotations for her speech.
16. The connotation of "home" brings warmth and comfort.
17. The word "change" carries a sense of uncertainty in its connotation.
18. He misunderstood the connotation of her smile.
19. The connotation of "adventure" is exciting and daring.
20. The connotation of his actions left a lasting impression.
21. The word "failure" has a heavy connotation.
22. The connotation of "dream" implies ambition and hope.
23. The connotation of "rebellion" can be empowering.
24. The connotation of his name evokes trustworthiness.

GRE 12 (Graduate Record Examination), Critical and Analytical, Discourse and Conveyance, Perception and Perspicacity, Words and Language, Language and Expression 1

association,implication,nuance,suggestion

indication,meaning,message,undertone

implication, denotation, literalness, directness

eb68db_5a2ace022662436e934384047307fd79.mp3

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