What are the key differences between denotation and connotation?

Question

A. denotation represents grammatical structure, connotation represents syntax
B. denotation is subjective, connotation is objective
C. denotation is the literal meaning,connotation involved emotional associations
D. connotation describes word origins, denotation describes word usage

Answer 1

The key differences between denotation and connotation are best captured by option:

C. denotation is the literal meaning, connotation involves emotional associations.

Denotation refers to the explicit, dictionary definition of a word, while connotation encompasses the additional meanings, feelings, or associations that a word may evoke beyond its literal meaning.