This document provides guidance on writing an effective definition essay. It emphasizes using vivid examples to support definitions rather than just providing generalizations. Definitions should grow from a definition into a powerful image. Examples are needed to clarify meanings, especially for abstract terms. The topic chosen needs to be something the writer can comment on and that others would want to read about. Strong support through relevant and representative examples is important. The conclusion should not just restate the introduction but could explain how the topic affects others.

1. Karen S. Wright

2. The one major goal for theThe one major goal for the
definition essay is for it to bedefinition essay is for it to be
organic and grow from aorganic and grow from a
definition to a powerful image.definition to a powerful image.
 It needs to be more than thanIt needs to be more than than
a generalization.a generalization.
Definitions need to have vividDefinitions need to have vivid
examples for support.examples for support.
The issue needs to be one youThe issue needs to be one you
can comment and one thatcan comment and one that
others will want to read.others will want to read.

3. Examples define the
correct protocol at
the State of the
Union address.
•Other examples
define presidential
security.
Examples clarify meaning:

4. Some terms are
difficult to define
without examples.
For example, the
term terrorism needs
solid examples.

5. Most physical
objects have
definitions with
which most people
agree such as--
•Dogs
•Trees
•Cars

6. Abstract terms
need to be defined
with vivid
illustrations and
supported by
examples:
 Patriotism
 Poverty
 Honesty

7. Some Important Points to
Consider
 Understand the term
you choose to define.
Tell readers your
focus.
 Make sure all your
examples are relevant
and will help explain
your definition.

8. Select your subject:
For example, a good topic could be
to define obese children in the
twenty-first century.
Use examples to illustrate not only
obese children, but also how they
become obese: inactivity, diet, and
depression.
Clarify all terms that may seem
unfamiliar--not only to you, but to your
reader.

9. Mapping or
outlining might
help you organize
your ideas.
Write your
paper’s main idea
knowing that it
can change.

10. For a paper to achieve a strong effect, it
needs proper and strong support.
Use vivid examples
If necessary
enumerate more than
one point
Be accurate

11. By using vivid examples, you help your reader
understand the subject through illustrations.
Rather than use too many short examples, use
a story or an anecdote to add the human
element.

12. Use relevant
examples supporting
your thesis.
Use representative
of typical or real-life
situations.
Your example
should leave a lasting
impression.

13. I. Introduction
• Attention
getter
• Anecdote
• Perhaps a
contradictory
image to
illustrate and
introduce your
subject.

14. II. Body—use separate
paragraphs to support
each idea
•Examples
•Statistics if needed
•Facts
Writing is painting a picture with words for your
audience to SEE what you are saying.

15. III. Conclusion
Do not regurgitate the
introduction.
Perhaps explain how your
subject affects others.

16. IV. Documentation
•Use parenthetical
documentation of
sources in the text of
your paper (MLA).
•Your last page will be a
works cited page.

17. Your final product will
blossom into something
wonderful if. . . .
You dig into your topic
You give solid examples
You use good detail