the definition

The Definition

the essay

What is a Definition essay?

A definition tells what a term means and how it differs from other terms in its class.

What is a formal definitiion?

First, they present the term to be defined, then the general class it is a part of, and finally the qualities that differentiate it from the other terms in the same class.

What is a extended definitiion?

An extended definition does not follow a set pattern of development. Instead, it uses whatever strategies best suit the writer’s purpose, the term being defined, and the writing situation. In fact, any one (or more than one) of the essay patterns illustrated in this book can be used to structure a definition essay.

Providing a formal definition of each term you use is usually not necessary or desirable. Readers will either know what a word means or be able to look it up. Still, it is often helpful to provide a brief definition of any term that is key to your readers’ understanding of your essay — especially if a key term has more than one meaning, if you are using it in an unusual way, or if you are fairly certain that the term will be unfamiliar to your readers.

Developing the Thesis Statement

The thesis of a definition essay should do more than simply identify the term to be defined — and more than just define it. The thesis statement needs to make clear to readers the larger purpose for which you are defining the term.

How to Define

1. • You can define a term by using synonyms(wordswithsimilar meanings).
2. • You can define a term by using negation(tellingwhatitisnot).
3. • You can define a term by using enumeration(listingitscharacteristics).
4. You can define a term by using ananalogy(identifying similarities between an unfamiliar term and something likely to be more familiar to readers).
5. You can define a term by discussing its origin and development (the word’s derivation, original meaning, and usages).

NOTE: If you are describing something that is unfamiliar to your readers, you can also include a visual — a drawing, painting, diagram, or photograph — to supplement your definition.

Checklist