WHAT DO WORDS MEAN TO YOU?

How Bizarre is That?

Denotation vs. Connotation

Denotation is the dictionary or literal meaning of a word. Plump = a full, round, and pleasing figure.

Connotative words suggest or imply emotional feelings relating to a specific meaning. Fat = While similar in meaning to plump, it has a very

harsh and mean tone to it.

Emotional Impact of Words & Phrases

The choice of words that a writer uses, and the tone of those words, is what evokes an emotion in us.

The tone of words can be positive, negative, or neutral, etc.

Some words suggest dislike or disapproval.

Tone words evoke an emotion

The tone of the words is what evokes a certain emotion.

Connotation & Denotation are related to Tone

Connotation, denotation, emotion and tone all have an influence on the characterization method an author chooses.

What kind of person would say certain things?

How would certain people react differently to certain words or phrases?

Can you notice the difference?

I love him to the depths of my soul.

I’m really crazy about him.

Which one evokes more emotion?

Which one do think has a stronger, more negative feel to it?

You look a little odd today.

You look really weird today.

Neutral – Positive - Negative

Friendly Hope Admit

Single woman Clever

Dislike Fraud Sincere

Impact on our Reading

As an active reader (note taking), you should question an author’s use of words.

Why does your author use neutral, positive, or negative connotative language?

How does it affect the characters and you?