How Do You Start An Introduction To A Definition?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

, , , ,

You need

to clearly state what your word is

along with its traditional or dictionary definition in your introductory paragraph. By opening with the dictionary definition of your term, you create context and a basic level of knowledge about the word. This will allow you to introduce and elaborate on your own definition.

How do you introduce a definition in an essay?

To use definitions effectively, you should be concise,

use your own words and introduce the definitions

in the body of the essay rather than in the introduction. Determine whether the word is unusual enough to warrant a definition.

How do you explain what a definition is?

A definition is

a statement of the meaning of a term

(a word, phrase, or other set of symbols). Definitions can be classified into two large categories, intensional definitions (which try to give the sense of a term) and extensional definitions (which try to list the objects that a term describes).

How do you start a definition essay example?

Introduction: Like most essays, the introduction paragraph in definition essays should start with an

introduction sentence or “grabber

,” followed by a transition sentence, and end with a strong thesis statement (which is often a clear statement of the definition).

How do you make a definition?

  1. Wiktionary is a dictionary, not an encyclopedia. A definition does not need to contain every piece of information known about a subject. …
  2. Keep it simple. …
  3. Avoid complicated terms. …
  4. Avoid specialized terms. …
  5. Avoid circularity.

How do you write text definition?

When you start writing a definition essay, follow 3 main steps. Step 1:

Tell readers

what term is being defined. Step 2: Present clear and basic information. Step 3: Use facts, examples, or anecdotes that readers will understand.

How do you write a good introduction?

  1. Keep your first sentence short.
  2. Don’t repeat the title.
  3. Keep the introduction brief.
  4. Use the word “you” at least once.
  5. Dedicate 1-2 sentences to articulating what the article covers.
  6. Dedicate 1-2 sentences to explaining why the article is important.

How do you include a definition of a word in a sentence?

If you cite a definition of a word you looked up on Dictionary.com and need to include it in your references, the basic format is as follows,

exemplified by the word hangry: Dictionary.com, s.v., “hangry

,” accessed June 17, 2019, https://www.diction-ary.com/hangry.

How do you write a definition paragraph?

  1. First of all, the paragraph should start with the topic sentence.
  2. then, after the topic sentence, there should be at least 3 supporting sentences.
  3. Lastly, it can be ended with a well-formulated conclusion sentence (not essential always).

Why is definition important?

But why is a definition so important? Because definitions

enable us to have a common understanding of a word or subject

; they allow us to all be on the same page when discussing or reading about an issue.

What is the example of definition?

1 :

one that serves as a pattern to be imitated or not to be imitated a good

example. 2 : a punishment inflicted on someone as a warning to others also : an individual so punished. 3 : one that is representative of all of a group or type.

How do you write a definition essay about yourself?

  1. Choose the term you want to define. This may be given to you, or you’ll need to choose it for yourself. …
  2. Do your research. …
  3. Write an outline, like the one above. …
  4. Sit down and write. …
  5. Proofread and edit your essay once it’s done.

What are the 3 main parts of a definition?

All definitions have three parts:

term being defined, classification and identifying characteristic(s)

. In order to learn, understand, and use the definition of a term, it is necessary to identify the three parts of a definition.

How do you write a definition argument?

  1. introduce the issue and state the claim.
  2. define key terms.
  3. present your first criterion and argument that your case meets your definition.
  4. present your second criterion and argument that your case meets your definition.

How do you write a definition essay outline?

  1. Introduction. Official or dictionary definition. An interesting statement or personal information. Thesis statement.
  2. Each Body Paragraph. Topic sentence. Analysis. Supporting information. …
  3. Conclusion. Restated thesis statement. Summary of the major points.

How are definitions created for words?


A word gets into a dictionary

when it is used by many people who all agree that it means the same thing. … First, you drop the word into your conversation and writing, then others pick it up; the more its use spreads, the more likely it will be noticed by dictionary editors, or lexicographers.

What are the steps to write definitions?

How to Write Simple Definitions.

Step 0 – Limit your definitions

to a single concept. Step 1 – Research the Term. Step 2 – Determine the Term’s Concept. Step 3 – Choosing the Definition Type.

What’s a good introduction?

A good introduction

should identify your topic, provide essential context, and indicate your particular focus in the essay

. It also needs to engage your readers’ interest. A strong conclusion will provide a sense of closure to the essay while again placing your concepts in a somewhat wider context.

How do you create a good definition?

  1. Avoid defining with “X is when” and “X is where” statements. …
  2. Do not define a word by mere repetition or merely restating the word. …
  3. Define a word in simple and familiar terms. …
  4. Keep the class portion of your definition small but adequate.

What does a definition essay look like?

In a definition essay, you

explain the meaning of a certain term by giving a detailed description of it

, and support your definition with clear examples or facts. Such explanations are needed if a term is special, abstract, disputed, or does not have a common meaning.

What is a good introduction sentence?

Your essay introduction should include three main things, in this order:

An opening hook to catch the reader’s attention

. Relevant background information that the reader needs to know. A thesis statement that presents your main point or argument.

How do you introduce someone in writing?

  1. Write a greeting.
  2. Start with a sentence on why you’re writing.
  3. Present the full name of the person you’re introducing.
  4. Explain their role and why it is relevant to the reader.
  5. Provide information on how they might work together or be helpful for each other.
  6. Close with any next steps or other necessary details.

What are three ways to define a word?

  • Formal Definitions. A formal definition. …
  • Informal Definitions. In an informal definition. …
  • Extended Definitions. Extended definitions.

Do you have to quote a definition?


You do not

always need to cite and reference a dictionary definition. … As subject dictionaries and encyclopedias are usually written by a specific author/s or organisation, and contextual definitions are provided, you will need to cite and reference them in the usual way.

How do you use the word definition?

1a :

to determine or identify the essential qualities or meaning of whatever defines us as human

. b : to discover and set forth the meaning of (something, such as a word) how the dictionary defines “grotesque” c computing : to create with established rules or parameters define a window define a procedure.

What is family definition essay?

Family Definition Essay: “Family”

is exceptional, extraordinary, and disputable among various societies and identities

. A family is any gathering of people firmly related by blood, as guardians, youngsters, uncles, aunties, and cousins. Family isn’t characterized or limited by blood relations.

What are the 4 types of definition?

Here are just four among the many types of definitions:

(1) Definition by synonym

; (2) Ostensive definitions; (3) Stipulative definitions, and. (4) Analytical definitions.

What are the five purposes of definition?

These are five reasons.

To increase vocabulary

: to explain the meaning of a term is to give its definition. … To clarify meaning: when a vague term is used or to reduce vagueness. To explain theoretically. To influence attitude: they may be used to stir emotions of one’s readers or hearers in a certain definite way.

What does definition mean English?

1 :

an explanation of the meaning of a word, phrase

, etc. : a statement that defines a word, phrase, etc.

What is paragraph define with examples?

A paragraph is

a brief piece of writing that’s around seven to ten sentences long

. It has a topic sentence and supporting sentences that all relate closely to the topic sentence. … Concluding sentence – a brief reflection or statement about the main idea.

What would be your definition of good?


morally excellent

; virtuous; righteous; pious: a good man. satisfactory in quality, quantity, or degree: a good teacher; good health. of high quality; excellent.

What are 5 examples of simple sentences?

  • Joe waited for the train. “Joe” = subject, “waited” = verb.
  • The train was late. …
  • Mary and Samantha took the bus. …
  • I looked for Mary and Samantha at the bus station. …
  • Mary and Samantha arrived at the bus station early but waited until noon for the bus.

What does define mean dictionary?

to state or set forth the meaning of (a word, phrase, etc.): They disagreed on how to define “liberal.” to explain or identify the nature or essential qualities of; describe: to

define judicial functions

. to fix or lay down clearly and definitely; specify distinctly: to define one’s responsibilities.

Amira Khan
Author
Amira Khan
Amira Khan is a philosopher and scholar of religion with a Ph.D. in philosophy and theology. Amira's expertise includes the history of philosophy and religion, ethics, and the philosophy of science. She is passionate about helping readers navigate complex philosophical and religious concepts in a clear and accessible way.