Connote-Denote | Commonly Confused Words

Connote

/kəˈnəʊt/

To suggest or imply something additional to the main meaning

Her smile seemed to connote a deeper meaning.The color red can connote both danger and love.His silence might connote disapproval or thoughtfulness.

/dɪˈnəʊt/

To be a sign of or to indicate something

Red lines on the map denote hazardous areas.A symbol can denote a particular idea or object.In logic, letters often denote variables or constants.

Denote starts with a de- prefix, which can help you remember it refers to dictionary definitions, which are very explicit.
In contrast, connote implies an association, hint, or additional meaning beyond the explicit one.
Think of connote as connected ideas, since it involves suggestions and associations.
Denote is more straightforward, like a note that gives a clear message.
Connote involves deeper, often emotional or cultural interpretation beyond the literal meaning.