Understand What Definition Is

Definition

Writing That Tells What Something Means

Understand What Definition Is

Definition is writing that explains what a term or concept means.

Four Basics of Good Definition

  1. It tells readers what is being defined.
  2. It presents a clear definition.
  3. It uses examples to show what the writer means.
  4. It gives details to support the examples.

In the following paragraph, the numbers and colors correspond to the Four Basics of Good Definition.

A 1 stereotype 2 is a conventional idea or image that is simplistic — and often wrong, particularly when it is applied to people or groups of people. Stereotypes can prevent us from seeing people as they really are because stereotypes blind us with preconceived notions about what a certain type of person is like. 3 For example, I had a stereotyped notion of Native Americans until I met my friend Daniel, a Chippewa Indian. 4 I thought all Indians wore feathers and beads, had long black hair, and avoided all contact with non–Native Americans because they resented their land being taken away. Daniel, however, wears jeans and T-shirts, and we talk about everything — even our different ancestries. After meeting him, I understood that my stereotype of Native Americans was completely wrong. 3 Not only was it wrong, but it set up an us-them concept in my mind that made me feel that I, as a non–Native American, would never have anything in common with Native Americans. My stereotype would not have allowed me to see any Native American as an individual: I would have seen him or her as part of a group that I thought was all alike, and all different from me. From now on, I won’t assume that any individual fits my stereotype; I will try to see that person as I would like them to see me: as myself, not a stereotyped image.

You can use definition in many practical situations.

COLLEGE On a math exam, you are asked to define exponential notation.
WORK On a job application, you are asked to choose one word that describes you and explain why.
EVERYDAY LIFE In a relationship, you define for your partner what you mean by commitment or communication.

In college, writing assignments may include the word define, but they might also use phrases such as explain the meaning of and discuss the meaning of. In these cases, use the strategies discussed in this chapter to complete the assignment.