What is the opposite of “denote”?

What is the antonym of “denote”?

The antonyms of denote are connote and suggest. These words have similar meanings but different connotations.

Brief Definitions of the Antonym(s)

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

connote

To imply or suggest an additional meaning beyond the literal definition.

Example

The word 'snake' may connote danger or deceit.

suggest

To propose or indicate a possible idea or course of action.

Example

The doctor may suggest a change in diet to improve your health.

How are these antonyms different from each other?

• 1. Connote implies an additional meaning beyond the literal definition, while denote simply indicates the literal definition.
• 2. Suggest proposes or indicates a possible idea or course of action, while denote simply indicates what something means.

Good things to know

• 1. Writing: Use denote when you want to be clear and specific about the meaning of a word.
• 2. Literature: Use connote to add depth and layers of meaning to your writing.
• 3. Conversation: Use suggest to propose ideas or courses of action.

📌

Remember this!

The antonyms of denote are connote and suggest. While denote simply indicates the literal definition, connote implies an additional meaning beyond the literal definition. Suggest proposes or indicates a possible idea or course of action.