DEFINTION WRITING TIPS WITH SAMPLE

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. 3. A determining of outline, extent, or limits.
Consider the following guidelines as you write your definition essay:
• Make your essay personal, amusing, vigorous, stimulating, memorable.
• Choose a generic topic rather than a specific topic. For example, write about churches but not Westminster Abbey.
Types of Definitions Traditionally Used in Definition Essays
Any combination of these traditional types of definitions can help clarify meaning for the reader of your definition essay:
• Analysis: Divide the subject into parts and define each part separately.
• Classification: According to dictionary definitions, 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.
• Details: What are the physical characteristics, traditional thoughts, and other distinguishing attributes that describe the subject of the paper?
• Examples and Incidents: Narrate illustrations that can clarify a group, theory, or object.
• Negation: Mention what it is not in order to clear the ground for what it is.
• 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.
wave of reaction. Love also can be confused with feelings of indigestion and gas. Houses have been built, burned, and banished because of love.

Definition Essay
. A definition essay defines a word, term, or concept in depth by providing a personal
. Here is the outline
I. Introduction
A. Attention getter:

B. Filler

C. Thesis:

II. Body
A. Topic Sentence One
1. Types of Support/Evidence

B. Topic Sentence Two

1. Types of Support/Evidence

III. Conclusion