Paper Example on Connotative and Denotative Aspects of 'Serenity'

Introduction

Serenity, an intangible or abstract word bears some extent of connotative and denotative definitions. The ambiguity of the word depends on the precincts of the setting within which it is used. This essay addresses the connotative and denotative aspects of the intangible but palpable word 'Serenity.' It puts into perspective the various literal real-world meanings or definitions of the word in contrast with the feelings, ideas, and conceptions behind it. That is the surreal undertones that the mention of 'Serenity' spawns. The term Serenity appears to underlie the notion of emotional, physical environmental (for example when referring to ideal weather) and spiritual goal of humanity.

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Denotation of Serenity

According to The Cambridge University, English Dictionary is, Serenity is the quality of being calm and peaceful, ("Serenity"). According to the dictionary, the term serenity refers to the state or condition of being neither worried nor excited, but calm, still and relaxed. The mention of the word communicates in part the denotation of synonyms like peace, harmony, and equanimity among others. Different dictionaries, however, use various wordings to express denotatively the same point. Denotation or literal application of the term brings out a significant portion of the physical or environmental aspect. It elicits the notion of being physically calm, in a state of rest, repose, peace and tranquility. The historical background of the term traces back its origin to the Latin translation serenus which translates to calm and peaceful.

The Connotation of Serenity

The definition of serenity varies from settings to another among other circumstantial factors. The contextual comprehension of serenity varies according to circumstances, among others as highlighted.

Serenity in an Emotional Context

Serenity bears a great deal of emotional appeal, for example from the dictionary definition above, it implies some degree of emotional calm or free of stress. It tacitly connotes freedom from difficult emotions. It also means a state of events with which one or a group identifies, based on the motive, simply put an enabling environment. Use of serenity also connotates peaceful coexistence, friendliness thus promoting inter-relationship. The symbolism can also be extended to in certain

Serenity in a Political Setting

According to Roberts and George (581), the term 'Serenity' in a historical sense became popular as a title conferred on the Roman Catholic Popes.

Consequently, the word gained rapid evolution, gaining other literal and figurative embodiments. The term also paints an impression of political stability and absence of hostile aggression in a given political system. By extension, it can also imply democratic governance and sanctity to the human bill of rights.

Economic Conception of Serenity

Serenity in economic environment connotes the capability of individuals to freely engage in commercial pursuits of any form or kind, selling and buying labor, goods, and services (Harle 349). It creates the impression of growth of economic status in an ideal society and raising living standards of the people subject to such form of freedom. Others emphasize the intrinsic value of the commercial aspect of serenity. For instance, the capacity to freely make and pursue financial choices, given one's opportunity set is an essential element of an individual's capabilities (Harle 358). The capacity should be considered an end in itself, not just a means to some ends as others may perceive. The connotation of the definition of Serenity by The Wall Street Journal, on the other hand, implies the rights to own property in a serene environment.

"Serenity in the economic aspect also means a state of low corruption inform of bribery, extortion, nepotism, tribalism, cronyism and other forms of embezzlement which may hinder the legitimate pursuit of economic right and individuals well-being. It also connotes stability in a country's currency as well as market forces determining prices of input and output in the market. It, therefore, means that economic serenity decries inflation (Harle 350)".

Serenity in a Spiritual Realm

Serenity and peace are the ideal pillars of every religious context. This is apparent for instance in the conception of The Serenity Prayer lauded by different religious establishments. The word in this landmark prayer reeks of the quest for peace and faith, especially when the western bloc was imbued in conflicts and the world wars. The author Reinhold Niebuhr in 1930 dedicated prayer for the pursuit of unwavering peace and faith in times of war and politics.

Conclusion

This definition essay delves into the nuances of denotative and connotative bearings or definitions of the term 'Serenity'. The paper creates a clear distinction between the use of connotation and denotation in the society literally and implicitly. It has also emphasized how the connotative conception of intangible abstracts like serenity can have both negative and positive facades, for example, it may imply a state of indifference and being carefree. It is worth highlighting from the essay that serenity has different definitions emotionally, political (both in historical and contemporary contexts), economic and religious connotations.

Works Cited

"Serenity." 3rd ed., Cambridge University Press, 2011, https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/freedom. Accessed 16 Nov 2018. Accessed 16 Nov 2018.

Harle, Tim. "Serenity, courage and wisdom: Changing competencies for leadership." Business Ethics: A European Review 14.4 (2005): 348-358.

Roberts, Kay, and George Cunningham. "Serenity: Concept analysis and measurement." Educational Gerontology: An International Quarterly 16.6 (2000): 577-589.