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Definition brings meaning (and purpose) to a word. It can be a powerful tool when writing. Writers can use definition to bring their own interpretation, or observation about a word to an audience. Definition can be used to clarify certain subjects or ideas that the audience may not be familiar with. Definition brings into focus the idea that the writer is aiming to display. A writer’s definition can, at times be more helpful than a dictionary’s definition. Sometimes a dictionary is very scientific in its definition and is little help to the common audience. When a writer uses language fit for his intended audience while defining a word there will be little confusion as to what the author is discussing.

Definition can help establish the main point that the writer is aiming to achieve through his paper. A writer can make it very clear as to what he means when he uses a certain word, as opposed to how others may use the same word. A writer can attach his own personal meaning to a word, and to ensure that his idea is clear to his audience he will define that word for his audience. It may be that he is redefining a word entirely, or simply expanding on its meaning with his own personal interpretations. Making clear the intended idea through definition is extremely helpful in this case. Definition ensures precision in the use of language in written works. Definition aims at precision when it comes to the use of language. Writers will call attention to words when they define them.

When a word is large and complex, and a reader has most likely not seen it before writers will sometimes narrow the meaning, simplifying the meaning as to not overwhelm the reader. Making the meaning of the word simple also brings clarity to the word. Simplifying the meaning also ensures that the reader comprehends the exact idea that the writer is aiming to share.

Writers sometimes build a structured definition of a word to ensure clarity. Writers will state the term that they are aiming to define to their audience. The term is then followed by the word is or was (though this is not always the case). The writer then establishes the word as being part of a general class of category and finally distinguishes the word from other members of its class and category, having the word stand on its own meaning.

Writers also use extended definitions to explore the meaning of an idea in an extreme amount of detail. Extended definitions can consume paragraphs and even pages of space to clarify the meaning of an idea for the audience of the writer. Extended definitions can be used in research papers, where an author is exploring one aspect of a subject in detail. This type of definition can also serve in business related reports, as it can explore influencing factors that might be of interest to businesses. Extended definitions can explore comparisons, contrasts, classifications and detail, in depth. The extended definition allows for the writer to touch on all aspects that he finds important to share about a particular idea or subject.

A writer should be aware of who his audience is when he is set to write a definition. A writer should also take considerable thought of how he will go about defining an idea or word. This will help decide if an extended definition should be used or not. The writer should be aware of what he is trying to accomplish through defining the term. This will help greatly when defining.

Example of Definition: Infatuation

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