What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
connotation
Example
The word 'snake' has a negative connotation because it is often associated with danger and deceit. [connotation: noun]
Example
When he said she was 'interesting,' the connotation was that he found her strange or unusual. [connotation: noun]
overtone
Example
There was an overtone of sadness in her voice when she spoke about her childhood. [overtone: noun]
Example
The word 'home' has positive overtones of comfort and security. [overtone: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Connotation is more commonly used than overtone in academic and literary contexts, while overtone is more commonly used in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between connotation and overtone?
Both connotation and overtone are relatively formal words, but connotation may be slightly more formal due to its frequent use in academic and literary contexts.
