Categories: All - negation - comparison - examples - origins

by Zhenjie Liu 4 years ago

211

Organigram

Definitions serve to explain the meaning of words, phrases, or terms by making them clear and distinct. Various methods can be employed to construct effective definitions in essays.

Organigram

CR 7.1-7.2: Definition

Everett, Heidi, and Judith Kilborn. "The Definition Essay." 1995, 1996, 1997.

Types of Definitions Traditionally Used in Definition Essays
Comparison: The unfamiliar may be defined by showing its likeness to the familiar or its difference from it.

Details: What are the physical characteristics, traditional thoughts, and other distinguishing attributes that describe the subject of the paper?

Negation: Mention what it is not in order to clear the ground for what it is.

Results, Effects, and Uses: Discuss the consequences and uses of the subject.

Analysis: Divide the subject into parts and define each part separately.

Classification: According to dictionary definitions, what classes does the subject belong to?

Examples and Incidents: Narrate illustrations that can clarify a group, theory, or object.

Origins and Causes: Where did the subject come from? What is the background information? What is the history of the subject?

What is definition?
1.The act of defining a word, phrase, or term.

2.The act of making clear and distinct.

3.A determining of outline, extent, or limits.