Denotation
The literal, dictionary meaning of a word. Denotation is the objective, referential meaning independent of emotional or cultural associations.
Real World
The word 'home' denotes simply a place where someone lives — a building or dwelling — but estate agents like Rightmove deliberately use 'home' rather than 'house' because the connotations differ significantly even though the denotation overlaps.
Exam Focus
Always contrast denotation with connotation when analysing word choice; state the literal meaning first, then explore associative meanings.
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