denote
/dɪˈnəʊt/ (bre, ipa) · /dɪˈnəʊt/ (ame, ipa) · /di-ˈnōt dē-/ (ame, mw)
denote — verb
- denotepresent simple I / you / we / they
- denoteshe / she / it
- denotedpast simple
- denoting-ing form
1. to work as a clear signal of something, showing its presence, nature, or meaning
to work as a clear signal of something, showing its presence, nature, or meaning according to an established rule or system — for example, a colour on a map that indicates a type of land, or a physical feature that reveals someone's condition.
On the hiking map, blue triangles denote campsites along the trail.
denote + noun phrase — symbols on a map
In many cultures, offering a guest a cup of tea denotes hospitality and warmth.
denote + abstract noun — social meaning
The dark circles under Mira's eyes denoted several nights of broken sleep.
In ancient Rome, a wreath of laurel leaves denoted victory in battle.
A red warning light on the dashboard denotes that the engine temperature is too high.
- indicate
broader and more everyday; can be used for people's gestures, while 'denote' is more for systems
- signify
slightly more formal; often used for implicit or deeper meaning
- represent
focuses on standing for something in a system rather than being a sign of it
- stand for
more informal; used mainly for abbreviations and symbols
文法句型
denote + noun phrase
denote + that-clause
用法筆記
This is the broadest and most common sense of 'denote'. It connects a visible sign, symbol, or feature to what it represents. The subject is often a symbol, colour, object, or physical sign rather than a person.
常見錯誤
2. to be the exact meaning of a word, letter, or symbol in a particular language or
to be the exact meaning of a word, letter, or symbol in a particular language or system — used when explaining what a term refers to in a precise or technical sense.
In a chemistry lab, the symbol H₂O on a bottle denotes pure water.
denote + noun phrase — scientific symbol meaning
The prefix 'un-' in English denotes a reversal or negation of the base word.
In musical scores, the Italian term 'allegro' denotes a fast and lively tempo.
On this diagram, each arrow denotes the direction of blood flow through the heart.
The linguist explained that the word 'cool' can denote a low temperature or, informally, approval of something.
文法句型
denote + noun phrase
denote + that-clause
用法筆記
This sense focuses on the literal or technical meaning of words and symbols rather than associated feelings (which would be 'connote'). It is common in academic, scientific, and technical writing.
常見錯誤
3. to formally or officially make something clear or known — used especially in for
to formally or officially make something clear or known — used especially in formal writing or announcements to state a position, intention, or change.
The ambassador's statement denoted a significant shift in foreign policy.
denote + noun phrase — formal announcement
The committee's final report denoted a complete rejection of the proposed changes.
The president's speech denoted that the government would prioritise education reform in the coming year.
The court's ruling denoted that the new law would apply to cases from the previous decade.
The mayor's cautious language denoted an unwillingness to commit to the costly project.
文法句型
denote + noun phrase
denote + that-clause
用法筆記
This sense is formal and somewhat dated in modern English. In everyday contexts, 'indicate', 'announce', or 'state' are more natural. It survives mainly in formal written reports, official statements, and academic prose.