Get Denotation Connotation Exercises 2020-2026

For example, denotation of the word “blue” is the color blue, but its connotation is “sad”—read the following sentence: The blueberry is very blue. We understand this sentence by its denotative meaning—it describes the literal color of the fruit.

For example, the denotation of the word timid is “lacking in courage or self confidence.” The connotation of timid is generally a negative one, particularly if you compare it to the word reserved or the word apprehensive, which have a more positive connotation.

Denotation: the most basic or literal meaning of a sign, e.g., the word "rose" signifies a particular kind of flower. Connotation: the secondary, cultural meanings of signs; or "signifying signs," signs that are used as signifiers for a secondary meaning, e.g., the word "rose" signifies passion.

Denotation is when you mean what you say, literally. Connotation is created when you mean something else, something that might be initially hidden. The connotative meaning of a word is based on implication, or shared emotional association with a word.

For example, the word homework refers to schoolwork done outside of school—that's its denotation. For many people, the word has a negative connotation—meaning that the word itself gives them a bad feeling associated with the experience of having to do homework when they'd rather be doing something else.

II. Examples of Connotation Stench, smell, aroma, scent, odor. Strong, tough, sturdy, hard. Proud, confident, arrogant, egotistical. Childish, childlike, young, youthful. Rich, loaded, privileged, wealthy, affluent. Broke, poor, impoverished. Frugal, economical, stingy, cheap. Tempting, attractive, interesting.

Denotation Examples The boy was pushy. (He was literally pushing people.) She was cold. (She was cold in temperature.) It was too hard. (The object was too firm.) The dog is a mutt. (The dog is a mix of several breeds.) Trevor is a bull. (The bull is named Trevor.) The woman was frugal. ... He was bull-headed.