How to Write . Definition Essays

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The term definition means to define something. Looking at the term of definition leads the person to believe that the essay will make a topic clear or it will give meaning to a topic. Several different types of essays could be used as a definition essay such as evaluation, classification, analysis, and comparison.

A definition essay will define the topic to the audience. The topic should be written in simple terms so the audience can understand the topic. The best way to write a definition essay is to use facts, anecdotes, or simple terms to break down the meaning of the topic.

The first step to writing a definition essay is to select a term or a topic. Think about various definitions of the word. What does it mean? Look the term up in a thesaurus and list the different words connected to the term. What do you know about the topic? Do you know any anecdotes or short stories about the definition?

Define the topic in short simple words and then connect these words to an anecdote that might lead to the thesis. How can you begin to define the term? Do you know any quotes that define the meaning? Carefully think about how you can write a thesis statement putting emphasis on defining the term.

The body of the definition essay can be similar to five paragraph essays. Three main points that define, analyze, compare, or contrast are great ways to make up the body of the essay. Use understandable facts about the topic. The definition essay should explain the topic in ways the reader will get an understanding of what the topic is about. The body of the essay needs to have three specific points that clarify the definition.

An abbreviated example of a definition essay on esteem:

You can't touch it, hear it or see it, but it makes a difference in your life. Self-esteem is important in everyone. The meaning of the word esteem is to show value or respect to someone. Self-esteem is showing respect and value to oneself.

1. Define self-esteem.
2. Compare high self-esteem to having low self-esteem.
3. Ways to boost self-esteem.

While many people may not see, feel or hear self-esteem it is so important in a person's life. While there are many things you cannot change in your life, the things you cannot change do not matter. The important thing is learning to life yourself and knows that you have value. You are important. Self-esteem is simply telling yourself that you are worthy of love and respect.

The definition essay begins by having the reader think about self-esteem. It is not something that can be seen or heard. The body of the essay would have three main points. The conclusion closes with thoughts about how important self-esteem is. A definition essay basically defines the "word" and then goes farther by giving the reader information about the topic.

Simply begin the definition essay with a fact, statistic, or anecdote. Something that grabs the reader in the first paragraph so he/she will keep reading. The body of the essay should have three points whether it is comparison, classification, or evaluation.

Proofread to see if there are any grammar or spelling mistakes. Does the essay give the reader a clear meaning of the term? What needs to be added? Are there unnecessary words? Read the definition essay out loud and listen to see if any part of it needs more clarification.

A definition essay simply defines a topic. It should give a clear image of what the topic is. Most definition essays are written in the five-paragraph essay form.

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