Definitive EssaysExpository Writing

Definition: Establishing Boundaries•No rational argument, scientific theory, or

philosophical position is possible without a precise definition of the terms involved.

•Where there is confusion about the meaning of key terms, such as the often-disputed idea of “feminism,” then communication can break down.

•Many people, however, regard definitions as merely the subject matter of dictionaries to be used only in moments of complete bewilderment.

•Besides knowing how to write definitions, we need to understand their relevance to thought and communication.

MisogynyPatriarchy

Heterosexism

Gendering

Feminist

•When you define, you identify the features that distinguish a term, thereby establishing its boundaries, and separating it from all others.

•Knowing these features enables both you and your reader to use the term appropriately.

Essential Definitions

•An essential definition does 3 things:▫Names the item being defined▫Places it in a broad category▫Distinguishes it from other items in the

category•Take a look at the following example:

▫Item Being Defined – a vacuum cleaner▫Broad Category – a household appliance▫Distinguishing Feature – uses suction to

clean floors, carpets, and upholstery

Pitfalls of Essential Definitions• There are limitations on essential definitions.• Because they are brief, they can’t truly explain abstract

terms such as cowardice, love, power, jealousy.• Avoid overly broad or particularly narrow definitions.• Be careful NOT to omit the main category. You can do

this by naming the main category rather than using phrases like “is where” or “is when” in your definition.

• Beware of circular definitions which don’t really provide a definition. Which of these would best define a psychiatrist?▫ “a physician who practices psychiatry” or ▫ “a physician who diagnoses and treats mental disorders”

Extended Definitions• Sometimes, especially when defining abstract

words, it is necessary to write a paragraph or even an essay to fully explain a term.

• For instance, new technical, social, and economic terms often require extended definitions.

• Extended definitions are montages of other methods of development – narration, description, process analysis, illustration, comparison, and cause and effect. It depends upon the term as to which methods of explanation you will select.

• You can also use negation to define a word by explaining what it does not mean.

Writing an Extended Definition

Plan

DraftRevis

e

• Identify your topic• Identify audience and purpose• Brainstorm distinguishing

characteristics• Identify useful strategies

• Intro introduces term, reason for definition, dominant characteristic

• Body presents distinctive defining characteristics

• Conclusion may summarize main point, call for action, predict an outcome, stress importance

• Check for too general, too narrow, or circular definitions

• Add needed traits or examples• Cut unnecessary elements

Works Cited

•Reinking, James A. and Robert von der Osten. Strategies for Successful Writing, Ninth Ed. Boston: Prentice Hall, 2011.