Denotation

Denotation is a translation of a sign to its meaning, precisely to its literal meaning, more or less like dictionaries try to define it. Denotation is sometimes contrasted to connotation, which includes associated meanings. The denotational meaning of a word is perceived through visible concepts, whereas connotational meaning evokes sensible attitudes towards the phenomena.[1]

In semiotics

In logic, linguistics and semiotics, the denotation of a word or phrase is a part of its meaning; however, the part referred to varies by context:

In grammar and literary theory, the literal meaning or "dictionary definition" of a term, devoid of emotion, attitude, and color.
In semiotics, the surface or literal meaning of a signifier.
In logic, formal semantics and parts of linguistics, the extension of a term.

In other fields

In computer science, denotational semantics is contrasted with operational semantics.
In media studies terminology, denotation is an example of the first level of analysis: what the audience can visually see on a page. Denotation often refers to something literal, and avoids being a metaphor. Here it is usually coupled with connotation which is the second level of analysis, being what the denotation represents.

Examples

Example one.

The denotation of this example is a red rose with a green stem. The connotation is that it is a symbol of passion and love – this is what the rose represents.

Example two.

The denotation is a brown cross. The connotation is a symbol of Christianity.

Example seven .

The denotation is a representation of a cartoon heart. The connotation is a symbol of love and affection.

gollark: I would add more, but the one for 1000 was too long.

gollark: It is the product of the first 100 primes, so it has many, many factors.

gollark: Base 4711930799906184953162487834760260422020574773409675520188634839616415335845034221205289256705544681972439104097777157991804380284218315038719444943990492579030720635990538452312528339864352999310398481791730017201031090 please.

gollark: ACTUALLY, WAIT A MINUTE, I HAVE A BETTER IDEA.

gollark: LET'S USE BASE 60000000000000000000 FOR MORE DIVISIBILITY!

References

John Lyons, Semantics, Cambridge University Press, 1996-2009 (2 vol.)

External links

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[1] John Lyons, Semantics, Cambridge University Press, 1996-2009 (2 vol.)