Comparison workshop
DenotationversusConnotationWhat's the Difference?
Denotation is direct conventional reference; connotation comprises associated meanings and attitudes.
Read the pair
How They Differ
First idea
Denotation
Denotation is a word's direct, commonly accepted meaning—the meaning a dictionary usually records.
versus
Second idea
Connotation
Connotation is the feelings, ideas, or associations a word may suggest beyond its direct meaning; those suggestions can depend on context and culture.
See the signal
Examples
Denotation
The listing uses home to mean the place where a person lives.
Connotation
After weeks away, the word home brought feelings of warmth, safety, and belonging.