Scribd
Upload
19 views2 pages

Definition Notes

The document discusses three types of definitions: definition by synonym which uses a familiar synonym, definition by category which provides the term's category and unique characteristics, and definition by negation which explains what the term is not. It also notes that the definition should be the topic sentence or thesis statement, and supporting details can be provided through examples, stories, or contrasting it with another term.

Uploaded by

kwesianapaul23
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
19 views2 pages

Definition Notes

The document discusses three types of definitions: definition by synonym which uses a familiar synonym, definition by category which provides the term's category and unique characteristics, and definition by negation which explains what the term is not. It also notes that the definition should be the topic sentence or thesis statement, and supporting details can be provided through examples, stories, or contrasting it with another term.

Uploaded by

kwesianapaul23
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 2

In definition writing you explain what a term or concept means by providing relevant examples,

telling a story or contrasting it with another term.

Remember that the definition of the term should be the topic sentence /thesis statement

Types of definitions
1. Definition by Synonym/Informal/connotative
The easiest way to define a term is to supply a synonym (a word that has a similar
meaning). This type of definition is useful if the original term is difficult to understand
and the synonym is a more familiar word.
term + synonym
A Mickey Mouse course is an easy course to complete.
I am a procrastinator, which means I tend to put things off.

2. Definition by Category/formal definition/Denotative


A more effective way to define a term is to give a definition by category (or class).
When you define by category, you determine the larger group to which the term
belongs. Then you determine what unique characteristics set the term apart from
others in that category.
term + category + detail
Netiquette is proper behavior regarding communication on the Internet.
Luddites are people who are skeptical about new technology
3. Definition by Negation
When you define by negation, you explain what a term does not mean. You can then
include a sentence explaining what it does mean. Definition by negation is especially
useful when your readers have preconceived ideas about something. Your definition
explains that it is not what the reader thought.
term + what it is not + what it is
Alcoholism is not an invented disease; it is a serious physical dependency.
Hackers are not playful computer geeks; they are criminals.

After the term is defined, you can provide supporting details by giving examples, telling a story or
contrast it with another term.
Rules for writing Definition topics sentences/thesis statement

 Where refers to place


 When refers to time
 Do not define a word with a part of the original term e.g resentment is an attitude of
resenting someone or something. X
 Do not use an abstract term to define another abstract term.

You might also like