The denotative meaning of economical and cheap both mean to “save money.” BUT, the connotative meaning of economical is positive. It connotes being careful with one's money. The connotative meaning of cheap is negative.

What is the connotation for economical?

economical, thrifty, and sparing mean careful in the use of money or goods. economical means using things in the best possible way without wasting anything. ... A thrifty shopper can save money. sparing is used when someone spends or uses as little as possible.

Is affordable a connotation?

What does affordable mean? If something is affordable, it means its price is low enough that you (or most people) have enough money to buy it. Affordable is the adjective form of the verb afford. If you can afford something, you have enough money to pay for it.