ENGL1010 Composition IDefinition essays often incorporate the techniques of extended definitions, which use other modes to develop the meaning of a term. The most common methods of extended definitions are descriptions, short narratives or anecdotes, comparisons or analogies, and examples. Cause/effect, process, and classification/division may also be used to define a term.
The introductions and conclusions to definition essays usually emphasize the importance or value of the term to be defined. Avoid using a dictionary or encyclopedia definition. Many students take this approach in the introduction, but this generally makes for a dull and uninteresting introduction. The body of the definition essay may be organized around the various methods used as support, may be developed chronologically to show the evolution in the meaning of a term, or may be developed by accretion, adding depth and detail to a definition.
When writing a definition essay, the writer should focus on concrete details rather than abstractions. If the term to be defined is technical, the writer should begin with a precise formal definition. If a more personal definition is expected, then personal experiences can serve as anecdotal evidence, and, again, concrete details identifying specific situations or actual incidents will strengthen the writer's position.
Method of Support
Just as a writer may use other modes as tools within a definition essay, definition itself is often used as a tool within another essay to help explain that essay's topic or purpose. For instance, in an essay arguing that behaviors must change to control global warming, the writer may use definition to fully explain the meaning of global warming to the reader. In addition, definitions are important for clarifying terminology and are often used as introductions to in-depth discussions and explorations of a topic.
ENGL1010 Composition I