Page 6 Denotation and Connotation

In the beginning was the Word...

Communication is more effective when words are carefully chosen.

Select a word because it is "right."


Read for Comprehension


A writer and reader must build a common understanding.

To come to terms with another person consider a word's dictionary definition — its denotation.


A word's literal meaning is... 
  • provided in a glossary or dictionary
  • found in context of the sentence or paragraph


Read for Emotion

 


Consider words for their emotional effect or connotation. Some words evoke negative feelings (lazy, boring, uninspiring) and others produce positive ones (responsible, exciting, well-balanced).

Connotation requires you to take a step beyond the language to the thought that lies behind it.


For example, "Out to Lunch" can mean someone is away having a meal, but it can mean someone is crazy — or at least ridiculous.



Read  "Your Hidden Skills" on page 19 of SightLines 8.

 

Important words, those that make a difference, are bolded in "Your Hidden Skills" to make them easy to locate.

Did you notice the author helps you read in context by defining each bold word for you?


 Read about "connotation" and "denotation" on pages 79-80 of ResourceLines 7/8.



Self-Assessment 

Click here to check your ability to use positive connotations. 


  Please contact your teacher if you have questions.