Expressive Words

Many words have two kinds of meaning denotation, a basic and literal meaning, and connotation, an associated meaning that implies or suggest more than it specifically denotes. For example, Kundiman not only denotes Filipino music but suggest a love song, usually melancholy and plaintive, sung by a discouraged lover to the girl he admires.

The denotation and connotation of a word or phrase determine its expressiveness. When we are explaining or arguing, we use specific words that are exact and appropriate; and the words are chosen primarily for their denotation (actual meaning). However, when we are telling stories or writing description or verses, we choose words that are rich in connotation (suggestive meaning) to stimulate the imagination and arouse the feelings of our listeners and readers.