Definition Essay
Selecting the Best Word/Phrase for a Definition Essay
What is a definition essay? It is simply an essay that explores the meaning of a word, or in some cases, a phrase. Of course, in order to complete an entire essay, you have to select a word that warrants some exploration and investigation. This rules out simple nouns and many verbs. Choosing the correct word around which to base an entire essay is very important. Fortunately, there are a few tips that will help you make that correct choice, given that your instructor has not already assigned the word or phrase.
Select a Word/Phrase that You Know
Writing any essay is a difficult and time consuming task. You will have research to do. You will have notes to take, outlines to write, and drafts to write, edit, and re-edit. Using valuable time learning the dictionary definition of a word/phrase is only wasting your time. It is okay to select a word/phrase that you will need to research, but do not select one with which you are completely unfamiliar, unless the specific assignment requires you to do so.
Select a Word/Phrase that Does not Have a Simple Black and White Definition
How many people would dispute the meaning of the word tree? How many words or paragraphs can be written on the definition of the word painting? Not many, right? This is why it is important to select a topic with a more complex definition. When going through the word selection process, try to think of words that might spark discussion or argument over their meaning. Here are a few examples:
- What is the definition of a hero?
- What is the definition of hard work?
- What is the meaning of good?
- What is the meaning of the word evil?
- What is a friend?
- Define happiness.
Depending on their life experiences and/or world views, people would define these terms very differently. You could easily write a definition essay using any one of these words, or other evocative word of your choosing.
Consider Exploring the Various Meanings of Words According to Region
One of the most interesting aspects of the English language is the variation that occurs from one region of the country to another. There are two ways in which this can be explored. You can look for a word that has different meanings in different areas of the country, or you can explore different words from different regions that all mean the same thing. Take the word milkshake as an example. In the majority of the United States, most would agree that a milkshake is a beverage made of ice cream blended with milk and flavorings. However, in some New England states, there is no ice cream in a milkshake. It is simply milk blended with a flavoring. The beverage with ice cream is known as a cabinet or a frappe. Regional word meanings are a great venue for definition essay topics.
Getting Started and Getting Help
Now that you have selected the ideal word, term, or phrase, you have two choices to make. Are you going to write the essay yourself, or are you going to get a little bit of help? If you decide to write the essay yourself, keep in mind that you will have to do all of the note taking, research, and draft writing that was mentioned above. Remember that this can take hours of your time. In addition to this, if this is your first time writing this type of essay, you will want to be especially careful that everything is just right. Your second option is to use a reputable paper writing service from which you can get an original and compelling piece of writing. If you choose this option, your essay will be written for you, while you concentrate on your job, your studies, your family, and your social life! And the finished product will give you a great model for any future definition essay assignments.
