or antonyms A word or phrase that has the opposite meaning from another word. These definitions may be synonyms A word or phrase that has an identical or very similar meaning to another word.

These definitions may be synonyms or antonyms introduced by or, in other words, or like., the writer uses known words or examples to explain an unknown term. In an informal definition The meaning of a word that is explained using known words or examples to define an unknown term. In textbooks, you may find the formal definition of terms listed at the beginning, at the end of a chapter, or in the glossary, which is a mini-dictionary of terms relevant to that text.ĭefinition: The power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint. Writers often include formal definitions when they are writing about something that may be unfamiliar to their readers. The dictionary is filled with formal definitions, but it is not the only place where you will find them. or characteristics that are specific to that term. or a verb A part of speech that refers to what is happening, the action, what the subject is doing, or how it is “being.” Examples include: sleep, to be, think., and all the traits The specific parts of a person, place, or thing that distinguish it from another. Examples include: swimmer, lake, sunscreen. consists of three parts: the term, the part of speech to which it belongs, such as a noun A part of speech that refers to a person, place, or thing.

This lesson will introduce you to the three different types of definitions: formal, informal, and extended.Ī formal definition The meaning of a word that consists of three parts: the term, the part of speech to which it belongs, and all the traits or characteristics that set it apart from every other item in that class.

All definitions attempt to explain or clarify a term. When writers are trying to explain an unfamiliar idea, they rely on definitions.

What is the definition of s