What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
connote
Example
The color red often connotes passion, love, and intensity. [connote: verb]
Example
The use of certain words can connote a sense of formality or informality. [connote: verb]
denote
Example
The word 'apple' denotes a type of fruit. [denotes: verb]
Example
The symbol '+' denotes addition in mathematics. [denotes: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Denote is more commonly used than connote in everyday language. Denote is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while connote is less common and often used in literary or creative writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between connote and denote?
Both connote and denote can be used in formal and informal contexts, but denote is more versatile and can be used in technical or academic writing, making it more formal in those contexts.
