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Denote Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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denote

[dɪˈnəʊt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in communication

to indicate or signify something. It is often used to show the meaning of a particular word or phrase.

Synonyms

indicate, represent, signify.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
denote

Used to explicitly state or symbolically represent something.

  • The red light denotes danger
  • The asterisk denotes an important note
indicate

Used to point out, show, or provide a sign or signal of something.

  • The arrow indicates the correct direction
  • His expression indicated that he was upset
signify

Used to express or convey a particular meaning or importance, often in an abstract sense.

  • The handshake signifies an agreement
  • The ringing of the bell signifies the start of the event
represent

Used when something stands in for something else, often in a formal or symbolic way.

  • The statue represents freedom
  • Each star on the flag represents a state

Examples of usage

  • His silence denoted his disapproval.
  • The red traffic light denotes that you should stop.
  • Symbols are used to denote different elements in a map.
Context #2 | Verb

in mathematics

to be a symbol for something in a mathematical equation or expression.

Synonyms

represent, symbolize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
denote

Use 'denote' when you want to explain that something is a sign or indicator of something else, especially in more formal or technical settings.

  • Red areas on the map denote danger zones.
  • The symbol '≠' denotes inequality in mathematics.
symbolize

Pick 'symbolize' when referring to something that stands as a symbol for a broader concept, especially in literary or artistic contexts.

  • The olive branch symbolizes peace.
  • In the novel, the broken chain symbolizes freedom.
represent

Choose 'represent' when you are talking about something acting or speaking on behalf of something else, or standing in for an idea, object, or person.

  • In the painting, the dove represents peace.
  • He will represent our company at the conference.

Examples of usage

  • In this equation, x will denote the unknown variable.
  • The letter 'a' is denoted as the coefficient in this algebraic expression.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Linguistics

  • In linguistics, a word can denote something literal, like 'dog,' or something abstract, like 'freedom.'
  • Denotation is often contrasted with connotation, which refers to the additional meaning or emotional association a word carries.
  • Words can have multiple denotations depending on context; for example, 'bark' can denote the sound a dog makes or the outer layer of a tree.

Education

  • Understanding how words denote meaning is vital in teaching language and communication skills.
  • Students learn to differentiate between denotation and connotation to enhance their reading comprehension.
  • Teachers often stress the importance of denotation to ensure students grasp the fundamental meaning of texts.

Psychology

  • Understanding denotation aids in cognitive development, helping children associate words with their meanings.
  • When language is understood correctly, it fosters better social interactions and reduces misunderstandings.
  • The clarity of denotation contributes to effective communication, reducing cognitive load in processing information.

Art and Literature

  • In poetry and literature, authors may use specific denotations to evoke particular images or themes.
  • Artists often denote their intent through the choice of materials and techniques, conveying deeper meanings beyond the surface.
  • Symbolism in art can hinge on denotative meanings, where the representation of objects carries specific cultural or historical significance.

Origin of 'denote'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin term 'denotare,' meaning 'to mark out' or 'to indicate.'
  • It entered the English language in the late 14th century, originally used in contexts of signs and symbols.
  • The prefix 'de-' suggests removal or separation, while 'note' relates to naming or indicating something.

The word 'denote' originated from the Latin word 'denotare', which means 'to mark out'. It entered the English language in the late Middle Ages and has been used in various contexts ever since. The concept of denoting something has been essential in communication, mathematics, and many other fields.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,261 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.