WordValedenote
to be a sign of; to indicate
In more detail
1. (verb) to indicate or show something, often by using a sign or symbol
2. (verb) to be a sign or symbol of something; to mean
Examples
- 1. The red lines on the map denote major highways.
- 2. In mathematics, the symbol π denotes the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter.
How to use denote
Denote is used when discussing what something officially represents or symbolizes, particularly in formal, academic, or technical contexts. It is often paired with symbols, signs, or abstract representations (e.g., '+' denotes addition). Unlike the more general 'mean', denote emphasizes explicit, deliberate representation rather than implication or inference.
Common phrases
- denote by
- denote a
- denotes the
- as denoted by
- denote something as
Synonyms
indicate · signify · mean · represent · mark
Word family
denotation · denotative · denoted · denoting
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse denote with connote; denote refers to the literal, primary meaning of a sign or symbol, while connote refers to associated or suggested meanings.
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