Definition of Terms Flashcards
To define a term is to explain its meaning
Definition of terms
Refers to being defined
Definiendum (Subject)
Defining term
Definiens (Predicate)
Express what the name means, not what the thing is; focuses the attention to defining the name.
Nominal
The definition that derived from the meaning of the original word or words from which the definiendum derived.
Etymological
Gives the same meaning of the term.
Synonymous
Provides definition as to its physical appearance. Most common way of defining a term.
Definition by description
Definition that gives an example of a definition for a more concrete understanding of the term to be defined.
Definition by example
Gives a clear picture of the definiendum through illustration in order to picture the meaning of the term.
Definition by illustration
Definition by simple identification (Use words such as this, that, these, those)
Ostensive definition
Expresses what the thing is.
Real Definition
Constructed by a genus and specific difference (Example: Man is a rational animal. A triangle is a polygon with three sides.)
Essential
Proper set of characteristics set of formal features, the properties, and the origin of the object.
Non-essential
What is the purpose?
A chair is an object used to sit on.
Final Cause
Who is the producer or mover of change?
A chair is made by a carpenter.
Efficient Cause
