Media Language

Denotation: is generally defined as literal or dictionary meanings of a word in contrast to its

connotative or associated meanings.
Example: If you search for meaning of the word dove in a dictionary, you will see that its meaning is
a type of pigeon, a wild and domesticated bird having a heavy body and short legs. In literature,
however, you frequently see dove referred to as a symbol of peace.
Connotation: refers to a meaning that is implied by a word apart from the thing which it describes
explicitly.
Example: Words carry cultural and emotional associations or meanings in addition to their literal
meanings or denotations. For instance, Wall Street literally means a street situated in Lower
Manhattan but connotatively it refers to wealth and power.
Signifier: a symbol, sound, or image (as a word) that represents an underlying concept or meaning
Signified: the meaning or idea expressed by a sign, as distinct from the physical form in which it is
Semiotics:
expressed. is the study of meaning-making, the study of sign processes and meaningful
communication.

Signifier:
This character maybe a symbol
of evil for the movie and that
the person their might be the
villain of the movie.

Signified:
The person her clearly
symbolizes the evil of the
story because of the outfit
that hes wearing.
Semiotics:
By looking this poster the
audience will be able to see
that it as an action film. We
can also see that this is a
children's film because of
the use of Lego.

Connotation:
The explosion behind them
symbolises the destruction going
on in the city and may indicate
that a lot of death may have
taken place.

Denotation:
This image shows pieces of Lego
running from the destruction
behind them.