Connotare

Connotare is an Italian verb meaning to connote, to imply, or to convey a meaning that lies beyond the literal sense of a word or expression. It is used in linguistics, literary analysis, and cultural studies to discuss the associative, emotional, or evaluative effects a term may carry for speakers and listeners. The noun form connotazione denotes this secondary or associated meaning.

Etymology: The verb derives from Latin connotare, formed from con- “with” and notare “to note” (to mark). In Italian it acquired the specialized sense of endowing a term with additional, non-literal associations.

Usage and examples: Words may connotare different attitudes or values depending on context and culture. For example, the word casa connota sicurezza e calore, while parola popolare connota informalità or familiarity, though reception may vary. In discourse analysis, connotare is used to describe how phrases evoke particular feelings or social meanings beyond their dictionary definition.

Relation to denotation: Denotazione refers to the explicit or dictionary meaning, while connotazione captures the implied, emotional, or cultural associations. Connotare a term thus involves the speaker or writer’s connotative use, which can be intentional or subconscious, and can change over time or across communities.

See also: In English and other languages, the cognate concept is connote or connotation, but connotare remains Italian usage; related terms include denotazione, semantica, and semiotica.