Definition Writing

1. Definition Writing

2. Definition • Purpose: Allows you to communicate precisely what you want to say. • A writer uses definition to: • Let the reader know what you mean when you use unfamiliar words (ex: accoutrement), words that are open to interpretation (ex: freedom), or familiar words that are used in a particular sense. • Why is this important??

3. Three Basic Ways to Define A Word • Synonym: use a word that has nearly the same meaning as the word you wish to define • No two words have exactly the same meaning but you can nevertheless pair an unfamiliar word with a familiar one to clarify the meaning. • Example: Anxiety Synonym: ____________

4. Three Basic Ways to Define A Word • Formal definition: place the term in a general class and then distinguish it from other members of that class by describing its particular characteristics. • Example:

5. Three Basic Ways to Define A Word • Extended Definition: to use one or more paragraphs (or even an entire essay) to define a new or difficult term or to rescue a controversial word from misconceptions that may obscure its meaning.

6. Extended Definition • In an extended definition, you provide your readers with information about the meaning of a single word, a concept, or an object. • You must consider what your readers already know, or think they know, about your topic. • For example: Are there popular misconceptions that need to be corrected? Have particular experiences helped you understand the topic?

7. Extended Definition • Goal: You can use synonyms or formal definitions in an extended definition, BUT you MUST convince READERS to ACCEPT your particular understanding of it.