Denotation refers to the literal meaning of an object. It describes something without an opinion. You can think of it as the dictionary definition of an object. A denotation is the actual meaning of the word without reference to the emotional associations or opinions it can inspire.
Example: House, Luggage, $20
Connotation
Connotation refers to the contextual meaning of an object. It refers to associations and feelings that are learned or metaphorical.
Example: Home, Baggage(as in emotional baggage), Cheap
All words and images tend to have both and neither is superior to the other, however, it’s important to have intention and specificity in all forms of communication.
Examples
What are the differences between these image pairs? Which has more of an opinion?
Stock image of man operating laptop on top of table. Unsplash.com
Look at Coding from Life!
Denotation Vs. Connotation
Denotation
Connotation
All words and images tend to have both and neither is superior to the other, however, it’s important to have intention and specificity in all forms of communication.
Examples
Discussion questions