When considering the meaning of words, which term focuses on the personal and emotional aspects?

The correct choice is connotation, which refers to the personal and emotional associations that a word carries in addition to its literal meaning. While denotation is concerned with the explicit, dictionary definition of a word, connotation encompasses the feelings and ideas that are evoked in a reader or listener as a result of using that particular word. For example, the word "home" has a denotation of a place where one lives, but its connotation might include warmth, safety, and belonging. This emotional layer can significantly influence how a message is interpreted. Understanding connotation is crucial for effective communication and for grasping the deeper nuances of language.