Development by Definition Group Members: Sherleen Valentine Ambrosia Mckoy Krystal Shae Miguel Pech David

 Main premise: Words and ideas must be defined clearly to eliminate confusion and misinterpretation.  Definitions limit or explain the meaning of a term or concept.

 Although the term “definition” generally is related with a dictionary, defining itself goes beyond just looking up a word in the dictionary.  Cleary stated definitions play a critical role in professional business.  This is in order to prevent confusion, conflict, and litigations. (note: definitions allows for all parties to share the a common understand the basis of important terms.

 To clarify an abstract term or concept. (Qualifying definitions e.g. Alcoholic, hero, juvenile delinquent)  To provide a personal interpretation of a term that the writer feels is vague, controversial, misused, or misunderstood. (e.g. “feminist”)  To explain a new or unusual term or phrase found in popular culture, slang, dialect or within a particular geographic area or cultural group. ( e.g. Hip Hop or Helicopter parent)  To make understandable the language or technical field of study, a profession or an industry. (e.g. deconstruction)

 1) Defining through synonyms is the simplest method of providing meaning for a word. Glossaries and dictionaries customarily define technical terms or foreign words with synonyms.  E.g. A casement can be explained as a window.  2) Defining by description provides details about a word or subject and gives readers a sense of what it might look, feel, taste, smell or sound like. Or in other cases it may also describe how something operates. E.g. An airbag can be described as a rapidly inflated cushion designed to protect automobiles in a collision.

 3) Defining by examples provides specific illustrations to establish meaning.  E.g. A felony can be defined as a serious crime such as murder, rape, or burglary.  4) Defining by comparison uses analogies readers can understand to provide meaning to something less familiar.  5) Extended Definitions qualify or limit the meaning of abstract, disputed, or highly complex words or concepts.

 Know your purpose  Give your readers a reason to read  Keep your audience in mind to anticipate and avoid problems  Use as many strategies to clarify your definition

 The major basis of Definitions is for people to have a common or shared understanding of terms within communication  Definitions hinder confusions and misunderstanding

 Connelly, Mark. The Sundance Reader: The Thompson Wadsworth Corporation, Canada, 2006  Wyrick, J. Steps to Writing Well. Wadsworth Publishing, Canada, 2007

The End! Thanks for your attention…no questions will be entertained