Imply, indicate, denote, connote

Question

Imply, indicate, denote, connoteWhat are the differences in the meaning of these verbs? I'd be grateful for illuminating sentences where the verbs would be used.Thank you so much in advance.

Doctor D · Accepted Answer

First off, "imply" and "indicate" are the more commonly used verbs. "Denote" and "connote" are used more often in a literary discussion or in a discussion of the linguistic meaning of words.

"Imply" means to suggest without saying so directly.

He never said he hated Jane, but he certainly implied it. (suggest)

"Indicate" means to make a point of saying. It also means to be a sign of.

Would you please indicate what mistakes I made in my paper? (point out)

This fever indicates that something is wrong with your dog. (be a sign of)

Denote can, like "indicate" mean "a sign or symptom of."
This fever denotes the final stage of his illness.

"Denote" can also mean "to stand for" or "to serve as an marker for"
Three blasts of the siren means "danger, exit the building."

Finally, "denote" is the literal meaning of a term.
"Uncle" denotes the brother of one of your parents.

"Connote" like "indicate" is suggestive. However, what is suggested or conveyed are associations, overtones, or emotions which are linked to but go beyond the explicit, denoted meaning.
Thus words like "mother" and "homeland" mean simply "female parent" and "place of birth," but they connote "loving care" and "patriotic loyalty."

So, in discussing the meaning of words, images, or symbols, denote and connote are two sides of that meaning. Denote is the explicit literal meaning. Connote is the associated emotional meaning.

I hope this helps.

Anonymous · Answer

Thank you so much! It helps!

Imply, indicate, denote, connote

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