A definition essay is a type of essay that explains what a term or a concept means. Some terms have definite, concrete meanings, such as glass, book, or tree. Terms such as honesty, honor, or love are abstract and depend more on a person’s point of view. The purpose of a definition essay is to provide a personal and extended explanation of a term by using facts, examples, anecdotes, or other methods.
To write a definition essay, you need to follow these steps:
- Choose a term or a concept that you want to define. It can be a word, a phrase, or an idea. Make sure that the term is not too broad or too narrow, and that it is interesting and relevant to your audience.
- Research the origin, history, and meaning of the term. You can use dictionaries, encyclopedias, articles, books, or other sources to find the information. You should also compare and contrast the term with other similar or opposite terms to show its differences and similarities.
- Write a thesis statement that summarizes the main idea or argument of your essay. The thesis statement should include the term and its definition, as well as your perspective or interpretation of the term. For example, if your term is “technology”, your thesis statement could be:
“Technology is the application of scientific knowledge to create, monitor, and design tools and processes that can change the world. Technology can have positive or negative effects on society, depending on how it is used and regulated.”
- Write an outline with the main points and supporting details that you will include in your essay. An outline can help you organize your ideas and structure your essay. You can use the standard five-paragraph essay structure, which consists of an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. However, you can also modify this structure according to your topic, purpose, and audience.
- Write the introduction that introduces the term and its definition, provides some background information, and states the thesis statement. You can also use a hook to grab the reader’s attention and make them interested in your essay. A hook can be a question, a quote, a statistic, a fact, a story, or an anecdote related to your term. For example, you could start your introduction like this:
“Have you ever wondered how the world would be without technology? Technology is everywhere, from the smartphones in our pockets to the satellites in space. Technology has changed the way we communicate, learn, work, and play. But what exactly is technology, and how does it affect us?”
- Write the main body that develops and supports your thesis statement with evidence, analysis, and examples. Each paragraph should have a clear topic sentence, a coherent argument, relevant evidence, and a logical analysis. You should also use transitions to connect the paragraphs and ensure a smooth flow of ideas. You can use different methods to define your term, such as:
- Definition by function: Explain what something does or how something works.
- Definition by structure: Explain how something is organized or put together.
- Definition by analysis: Compare the term to other members of its class and then illustrate the differences.
- Definition by negation: Explain what something is not, to eliminate any confusion or ambiguity.
- Definition by example: Provide specific examples or instances of the term.
For example, you could write a body paragraph like this:
“One of the functions of technology is to enhance the efficiency and productivity of human activities. Technology can automate, simplify, or speed up various tasks that would otherwise take more time, effort, or resources. For instance, technology can help farmers to grow more crops, doctors to diagnose and treat diseases, teachers to educate students, and artists to create and share their works.”
- Write the conclusion that restates the thesis statement, summarizes the main points, and gives the final impression of your essay. You can also provide some implications, recommendations, or suggestions for the reader. For example, you could end your conclusion like this:
“In conclusion, technology is a complex and multifaceted term that can have both positive and negative impacts on society. Technology is the application of scientific knowledge to create, monitor, and design tools and processes that can change the world. Technology can improve the quality of life and solve many problems, but it can also cause new problems and challenges. Therefore, it is important to use technology wisely and responsibly, and to balance its benefits and risks.”