Connotative Definition: 3 Examples of Connotation
Written by MasterClass
Last updated: Nov 17, 2021 • 1 min read
Grasping the distinction between ‘connotation’ and ‘denotation’ and being able to define ‘connotative’ and ‘denotative’ is a useful skill for writers.
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What Is the Definition of ‘Connotative’?
The dictionary definition of “connotative” has to do with words that offer a secondary meaning (often influenced by the surrounding context) in addition to their literal meaning. “Connotative” is an adjective, while “connotation” is the noun form of the word.
3 Examples of Connotation
In the world of literature, a connotative meaning of a word is one that factors in emotional associations or other contextual factors to derive meaning. A single word can take on different connotations depending on the context.
- 1. Positive connotation: A word with a positive connotation triggers positive emotions in a reader. If an established rock star is described as "youthful" in a review, the implied meaning is that they perform with verve, energy, and vitality. In this context, the word's connotation is positive.
- 2. Negative connotation: A word with a negative connotation triggers negative emotions in a reader. Consider the connotative meaning of the word "youthful" when describing a rock band in their early twenties. If the review is disparaging, "youthful" might imply inexperience, naïveté, and a lack of refined skill.
- 3. Neutral connotation: Sometimes a word choice does not imply any subtextual meaning. In this case, the word has a neutral connotation. Consider the word "young" in the following example sentence: "Young cubs stay with their mother, while grown lions stake out on their own." By offering a statement of fact, the word "young" has a neutral connotation.
‘Connotative’ vs. ‘Denotative’: What’s the Difference?
To understand the difference between ‘connotative’ and ‘denotative,’ consider their definitions.
- Denotative: The denotative meaning of a word is its dictionary meaning. It does not imply subtext or judgment.
- Connotative: The connotative meaning of a word starts with its dictionary meaning, but it expands to include surrounding context. As such, connotative meanings often include either positive or negative emotional subtext, which layers on top of a denotative meaning.
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