5.4: Definition

Introduction

Sometimes, you need to figure out what a thing is. One way to find out is to get a general definition from a dictionary, encyclopedia, or reference book. These are definitions that we generally accepted as the correct ones. There might be variations, but we trust that we have an accurate definition. 

For example: If I say the word skyscraper, you might envision One World Trade Center, but I might think of the Empire State Building. Someone else might think of The Burj Khalifa in Dubai or someone might recall a building in their hometown. Yet, all of these structures meet the formal definition of a skyscraper.

Sometimes, however, a simple definition is not enough, and we need an extended definition of some sort. Often the things that need to be defined are concepts such as happiness, racism or complex ideas such as artificial intelligence. An extended definition elaborates the qualities of the word. It may include the thing's elements or connotations. Some extended definitions can be a unique or personal perspective.

A definition that lists its parts is an example definition. You might use this type of definition for concepts that are hard to define so you use examples to show what the word means. So, if you want to define athletic, you might list different athletes who exemplify what it means to be athletic.

Occasionally, you might need to define something by what it is not. This is a negative definition. To do this, you contrast the thing to another term that is different from it. To define humane, you might start with examples of what is inhumane.

Definition Arguments

If you are asked to write a Definition Argument, you will write your own, unique definition to explain what you think about the word. You will explore many facets of the word being defined. You will consider how the thing works, its parts, or how to picture it. You could also think about the history or conversation around it. Plus, you could ask others' opinions or research the different aspects of it.

Once you have discovered all you can about the word, you will need to write your own definition and state it in a claim. This is what turns a simple definition into an argument. Other people might have different opinions, so you will need to provide sufficient evidence to support yours. You state your claim and evidence in a thesis statement.

Steps to write a definition argument.

1. Choose a topic.

If you can choose your own word to define, look for one that you can examine from multiple perspectives.

2. Find general information.

If you’re unfamiliar with the word you’re defining, the best place to start is with some reference resources such as a dictionary or encyclopedia. A textbook or other type of manual might also be helpful.

3. Formulate a general definition that you can build on.

Expect this definition to evolve as you explore the elements of your word. You may only have a vague concept, but that is still a place to start. Keep in mind that you’re developing your own definition that differs from others in some way.

4. Search for sources that discuss what you are defining.

Look for information that discusses the word. Look for patterns, use, or examples that you can use for your definition.

5. Write a complete definition with your claim and evidence.

Your claim states the definition you’ve devised. The evidence lists the reasons or examples that support your claim.

Example claims:

1. When deciding who gets aid in a natural disaster, government leaders must measure the extent of the damage to the area and the people who live there.

2. The growing number of banned books and government lists of forbidden words illustrates the increasing acceptance of censorship.

3. Many people are avoiding fast fashion by buying high quality, secondhand, or re-purposed clothes.

Structure of a definition argument

I. Introduction:

A. Simple definition

B. Context of the definition

C. Claim with evidence.

II. Explanation of your definition.

A. What it is.

B. Its properties.

III. Multiple paragraphs of evidence to support your definition.

A. Transition/topic sentence. Property 1

B. Evidence

C. Analysis

D. Concluding sentence

Repeat for each property.

IV. A counter-argument or discussion of other perspectives.

V. Conclusion:

Explain how your definition works in its context.

Example \(\PageIndex{1}\)

Example essay with comments. Link here: Definition argument from Excelsior OWL

Writing a definition may be seem a bit complex, but it is a good way to express your opinion by defining the term as you see it.

---

Works Cited

Montgomery, Jessica. "Teenage Sexting and the Law." Excelsior Online Writing Lab, owl.escelsior.edu,

https://owl.excelsior.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/DefinitionArgument.pdf