Connotation

Noun

Definition: An idea or feeling that a word invokes in addition to its literal or primary meaning.

Synonyms: Implication, Inference, Meaning

Antonyms: Denotation, Literal meaning

Examples:
  • The word "snake" has a negative connotation, often associated with danger and deceit.
  • The connotation of the color red can vary depending on the cultural context.
Mnemonics:
  • Think of "con-" as "with" and "notation" as "meaning" - connotation refers to the additional meaning associated with a word.

Etymology:

Origin:

Connotation comes from the Latin word "connotare," which means "to mark in addition." It entered the English language in the early 17th century.

Historical Usage:

Connotation has been studied and discussed in the field of linguistics and literary analysis for centuries, with its formal concept emerging more prominently in the 20th century.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Positive connotation"

Explanation:

Refers to the favorable or positive associations that a word carries.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Connotation is the same as denotation.

Explanation:

Connotation and denotation are distinct concepts. Denotation refers to the literal or dictionary definition of a word, while connotation refers to the additional meanings and associations that a word may have.

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