Denotation, Connotation, and Implication

 

a.      Denotation

What is denotation? Denotation is dictionary meaning of the word. Another way to think of it is as the associations that a word usually elicits for most speakers of a language, as distinguished from those elicited for any individual speaker because of personal experience.

b.      Connotation

What is connotation? Connotation is the associated or secondary meaning. It can be something suggested or implied by a word or thing, rather than being explicitly named or described. It is important in poetry because use them to further develop or complicate a poem’s meaning.

--> Example of denotation and connotation :

1.      The word "snake" simple denotes a reptile.  But it has the connotation of someone who can not be trusted, someone who cheats, and/or someone who will do harm to you if they can.

2.      The word “home” is just a name of structure or a shelter that is the usual residence of a person, family, or household, but the word has connotation of a nation, a place of warmth, comfort, and affection. 

c.       Implication

What is implication? This is meaning which a speaker or writer intends but does not communicate directly. Where a listener is able to deduce or infer the intended meaning from what has been uttered, this is known as (conversational) implicature.

For example : A: We are late! à It is mean that they must quickly.

d.      What is the difference between Denotation and Connotation?

Denotation

-          It refers to the primary, literal meaning or the dictionary meaning of a word.              

-          Denotation is not thus classified.

-          It remains the same regardless of culture and personal experiences.

Connotation

-          It refers to the personal and cultural meaning in addition to their primary, literal meaning of a word.

-          It can be classified as positive connotation and negative connotation.

-          it can change according to culture and personal experiences.

References : 

http://study.com/academy/lesson/what-is-connotation-and-denotation-definitions-examples.html 

http://www.enotes.com/homework-help/explain-difference-between-denotation-connotation-114729

https://www.teachit.co.uk/armoore/lang/semantics.htm