denote vs. connote

denote vs. connote: 's the difference?

Denote means to indicate or to be a sign of. Connote means to signify or suggest. Thus, something that denotes is clearer and more straightforward, while something that connotes is subtler and more ambiguous. Think of a denotation as the direct meaning of a word or expression, while a connotation refers to its secondary or associated meanings.

denote

verb (used with object)

denoted, denoting.
  1. to be a mark or sign of; indicate:

    A fever often denotes an infection.

    Synonyms: , , ,

  2. to be a name or designation for; mean.
  3. to represent by a symbol, or to be a symbol for.

connote

verb (used with object)

connoted, connoting.
  1. to signify or suggest (certain meanings, ideas, etc.) in addition to the explicit or primary meaning:

    The word “fireplace” often connotes hospitality, warm comfort, etc.

    Synonyms: ,

  2. to involve as a condition or accompaniment:

    Injury connotes pain.

verb (used without object)

connoted, connoting.
  1. to have significance only by association, as with another word:

    Adjectives can only connote, nouns can denote.