The Definition Essay

1. The Definition Essay def-i-ni-tion (def’ e-nish’ en) n. 1. The act of defining a word, phrase, or term. 2. The act of making clear and distinct. 2. A determining of outline, extent, or limits.

2. Why write a definition essay? • While some terms have definite concrete meaning, others do not • Abstract terms are defined through a person’s point of view • Objective: • You will create a definition essay in which you clearly define a word based on your perception of the world.

3. Your word must… • Have a complex meaning • Be disputable (could mean different things to different people) • Goal: • The goal of this paper is to completely define an abstract term for your reader through analysis and the inclusion of examples.

4. Types of Examples Analysis: Divide word into parts and define each part separately Classification: According to the dictionary, what classes does the subject belong to? Comparison: The unfamiliar may be defined by showing its likeness to the familiar or its difference from it

5. Types of Examples Details: What are the physical characteristics, traditional thoughts, and other distinguishing attributes that describe the subject? Examples and Incidents: Narrate and incident that can clarify your subject. Negation: Mention what it is not in order to clear the ground for what your subject is.

6. Types of Examples Origins and Causes: Where did the subject come from? What is the background information? What is the history of the subject? Results, Effects, and Uses: Discuss the consequences and uses of the subject.

7. Guidelines • 1 full page typed (MLA Formatting) • Include at least three examples included in this presentation