Definition Essay Outline - Writing Guide With Examples
When you want to know the meaning of a word or phrase, you look it up in the nearest dictionary. In most cases, all it takes is a few sentences to make the definition clear. Sometimes, if you want to dig a little deeper, you might research the word origin. You might even look for ways in which the word is used, or how it has come up in history. This is how you learn the meaning of things!
Sometimes, that’s not enough to really understand something. It takes research, and more than a short paragraph to explain these. This is the purpose of the definition essay.
Concluding your definition essay is your last opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your reader. It's crucial not to merely restate your essay but to synthesise the insights gained. Begin by briefly summarising the key points discussed in the body paragraphs. This summary should highlight how each point substantiates and enriches your understanding of the word. Ensure this synthesis adds to the depth of the essay rather than just repeating previous content. It's about showing the reader the interconnectedness of your arguments and their relevance to the broader definition.
Introduction of a definition essay
A definition essay is a kind of writing that describes or explains the meaning of a specific term. There are three main steps in writing an effective definition essay:
Conclude each paragraph by summarising the main points and explaining their relevance to the thesis. This not only reinforces your argument but also prepares the reader for the next paragraph. Ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs to maintain the flow of the essay and keep the reader engaged. This structured approach in the body paragraphs helps in building a strong, persuasive argument that enhances the overall impact of your definition essay.
Identifying the term requires one to understand the concept extensively before giving an elaborate definition. It is recommended for you to get familiarized with the meaning in the dictionary, but don’t copy/paste its definition. It is better to describe and explain the term using your own words. Experts say that it is good to limit the number of words in your definition. For instance, defining some terms, one can write forever about a topic, such as starry night. Presenting clear original definition of a term is basically coming up with a thesis statement that identifies it and gives a short definition. Facts and examples considering the concept are described using simple language that the reader will be able to understand. In this section you should assert your vast understanding of the term.
Writing effective body paragraphs is essential in expanding upon the thesis statement and providing a detailed exploration of the word. Start each paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the aspect or perspective you will discuss. This sentence should directly support your thesis and guide the content of the paragraph.
Here are some good definition argument essay topics to consider:
Task words are the words or phrases in a brief that tell you what to do. Common examples of task words are 'discuss', 'evaluate', 'compare and contrast', and 'critically analyse'. These words are used in assessment marking criteria and will showcase how well you've answered the question.
Take a look at the following example of a definition essay;
Writing an effective definition essay requires one firstly to create a definition through one of the following ways: I) defining by function - describe or explain how something works by giving procedures followed; II) defining by structure – description of how something is put together or organized; III) defining by analysis - comparing the term to other constituents of the same class giving similarities and illustrating the differences; IV) you should specifically define what the term does, not what the term means. The distinction clarifies the definition, thus helping the reader to understand it better.
Extended Definition Essay Example
Create a full definition essay from one of the items you already defined in . Be sure to include an interesting introduction, a clear thesis, a well-explained context, distinct body paragraphs, and a conclusion that pulls everything together.
Family Definition Essay Example
Finally, your conclusion should reinforce the definition you've explored throughout the essay. Here, rephrase your thesis statement to reflect the deeper understanding achieved. Link back to the broader implications of your definition, suggesting how it applies beyond the examples provided. This could involve pointing out the significance of the word in a broader cultural, social, or academic context. By doing so, you encourage your readers to think about the word in a more informed and nuanced way, leaving them with a strong sense of closure and a lasting impression of its importance.
Argument of Definition Essay Example
Create a full definition essay from one of the items you already defined in . Be sure to include an interesting introduction, a clear thesis, a well-explained context, distinct body paragraphs, and a conclusion that pulls everything together.