Connotation - implied meaning of word. BEWARE! Connotations can change over time.
confidence/ arrogance
mouse/ rat
cautious/ scared
curious/ nosey
frugal/ cheap
Denotation - dictionary definition of a word
Diction - word choice that both conveys and emphasizes the meaning or theme of a poem through distinctions in sound, look, rhythm, syllable, letters, and definition
Figurative language - the use of words to express meaning beyond the literal meaning of the words themselves
Metaphor - contrasting to seemingly unalike things to enhance the meaning of a situation or theme without using like or as
You are the sunshine of my life.
Simile - contrasting to seemingly unalike things to enhance the meaning of a situation or theme using like or as
What happens to a dream deferred, does it dry up like a raisin in the sun
Hyperbole - exaggeration
I have a million things to do today.
Personification - giving non-human objects human characteristics
America has thrown her hat into the ring, and will be joining forces with the British.