Basic Details
Word: Connotation
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: The feelings or ideas that a word suggests, beyond its literal meaning.
Synonyms: Implication, nuance, association
Antonyms: Denotation
Idioms and Phrases
- Words carry weight: This means that certain words have significant meanings or implications. Example: "When discussing emotions, remember that words carry weight and can affect how others feel."
- Actions speak louder than words: This refers to the idea that what someone does is more important than what they say. The connotations of their actions can reveal their true intentions. Example: "He promised to help, but his lack of support shows that actions speak louder than words."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The word "childish" has a negative connotation, suggesting immaturity, even if someone is simply being playful.
Example 2: The connotation of the word "home" often includes feelings of warmth and comfort, not just the physical structure itself.
Example 3: When analysing poetry, it's important to consider the connotations of words to understand the deeper meaning of the text.
Fun Fact
The term "connotation" comes from the Latin word "connotare," which means "to designate in addition." This illustrates how words do not just have meanings but also carry additional feelings and associations with them.
Famous Quote
"Words are, of course, the most powerful drug used by mankind." Rudyard Kipling
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "connotation" mean?
a) The literal meaning of a word
b) The feelings or ideas that a word suggests
c) A type of writing style
d) A synonym for a word
Answer: b) The feelings or ideas that a word suggests
2. Which of these is a synonym of "connotation"?
a) Definition
b) Implication
c) Clarity
d) Simplicity
Answer: b) Implication
3. Which word is the opposite of "connotation"?
a) Synonym
b) Denotation
c) Imagination
d) Interpretation
Answer: b) Denotation
4. Which sentence uses "connotation" correctly?
a) Her smile had a positive connotation, making everyone feel happy.
b) The connotation of two plus two is four.
c) A good book has a confusing connotation.
d) The connotation of a tree is to grow taller.
Answer: a) Her smile had a positive connotation, making everyone feel happy.
5. In the idiom "words carry weight," what does "carry weight" refer to?
a) The physical heaviness of words
b) The importance and implications that words can have
c) The act of speaking loudly
d) The number of words used
Answer: b) The importance and implications that words can have
