Analytical Vocabulary

This shot/scene/example (etc.)...

... establishes...	sets up, creates
... signifies...	Shows / acts as a sign for (e.g. red signifies danger)
... denotes...	provides a straightforward reading
... connotes...	Suggests or offers a cultural or interpreted meaning
... suggests...	provides a possible interpretation
... implies...	suggests
... illustrates...	provides a clear example of
... foreshadows...	hints at what is to come
...contrasts with...	offers a very different image / interpretation to (another example)
... is juxtaposed with...	creates opposite feelings/readings (compared with another e.g.
...demonstrates...	Is an example
...identifies...	Pinpoints, makes clear