This document provides guidance on writing a definition essay. It defines what a definition essay is and explains that the goal is to clearly define a term and how it differs from related terms. It recommends choosing a term that has a complex meaning that could be interpreted differently by different people. The document outlines a three step process for an effective definition: stating the term, providing clear basic information, and using examples. It also provides tips for developing a thesis statement, pre-writing techniques like making a group list, and choosing an organizational style like comparison.

1. DEFINITION ESSAY
ENGL 1301
Professor J.Bouchard

2. Defining a “Definition” Essay:
 def-i-ni-tion (def' e-nish' en) n. 1. The act of
defining a word, phrase, or term. 2. The act of
making clear and distinct. 3. A determining of
outline, extent, or limits.
 When one is defining anything, the goal is to
define what a term means and how it differs from
other terms in its class.
 Some terms have definite, concrete meanings,
such as glass, book, or tree. Terms such as
honesty, honor, or love are abstract and depend

3.  Remember, the nice thing about this type of
essay is that no one has the same opinions. We
all have our own way of viewing or understanding
something.

4. Three steps to effective
definition:
 Tell readers what term is being defined.
 Present clear and basic information.
 Use facts, examples, or anecdotes that
readers will understand.

5. Planning a Thesis statement
 Then the writer must present information that will clearly
show what the writer intends as a definition.
 The thesis should do more than simply identify the term;
your thesis needs to make a larger statement. It should
have a complex meaning.
 Should be disputable, i.e. could mean different things to
different people. No one wants to read a paper on
something overly obvious.
 It wouldn't be wise to choose a word like "cat" for a
definition essay. The word, "cat" has a pretty simple
meaning, so we'll have trouble writing an entire essay
about it. Similarly, not many people disagree over the
definition of the word "cat," which means our definition will

6. Continue: Pre-Writing
 Making a “group list” for your topic.
 Example: What makes a good friend?
 LOYALTY
 SAME SIZE, THEREFORE SHARING OF CLOTHES
 MUST LIKE CATS
 BRUSHES TEETH 4 TIMES A DAY
 Making sure your topic/thesis says something of purpose.
 I.E. The term “bitch” is traditionally a negative term which
often times is used to describe a woman; though, this term
did not always have this meaning. While this word is
negative to many, understanding the history may prevent
individuals from using this word as slang.

7. System Check:
 Ask yourself these questions; our topic is “family.”
 Does it have a complex meaning?
 Is the word disputable?
 Could I discuss the word's origin in a
meaningful way?

8. Style choices:
 Analysis or Exemplification: Divide the subject into parts
and define each part separately.
 Classification: According to dictionary definitions, what
classes does the subject belong to?
 Comparison: The unfamiliar may be defined by showing
its likeness to the familiar or its difference from it. It’s easy
to make things relate.
 Description: What are the physical characteristics,
traditional thoughts, and other distinguishing attributes that
describe the subject of the paper?
 Origins and Causes: Where did the subject come from?
What is the background information? What is the history of
the subject?
 Results, Effects, and Uses: Discuss the consequences
and uses of the subject.

9. Structuring a Definition Essay:
 As always, your essay will have: an
introduction(with a thesis), body paragraphs, and
a conclusion (to sum up your points and tie
everything together).
 The main difference is that you are defining
something as a way to reflect your attitude
towards your subject.
 Lastly, you can certainly use visuals for your
readers if you feel it is necessary.