In semantics, what does the denotative meaning of a word refer to?

The denotative meaning of a word refers to its literal or dictionary definition. This is the specific, objective meaning that is not influenced by personal feelings, emotions, or interpretations. Denotation is concerned solely with the explicit meaning of a word; for example, the denotative meaning of "snake" would simply be a legless, scaly reptile.

This fundamental aspect of semantics is crucial in public relations, as clear and precise communication helps avoid misunderstandings that can arise from ambiguous or emotionally charged language. Understanding the denotative meaning allows PR professionals to convey their messages effectively and ensure that their audience interprets the information as intended.

Other options touch on different aspects of language analysis—like emotional responses, contextual usage, and cultural connotations—which highlight how words can carry additional meanings beyond their straightforward definitions, but they do not define the denotative meaning itself.