Techniques of defining Flashcards
the process of breaking down a concept into its constituent parts; entails detailing in which one, rather than zooming out and describing the concept as a whole, zooms in and focuses on describing the aspects that make up a concept
Analysis
the use of words or expressions that are usually almost immediately associated with the concept you are trying to define
Collocation
associating the word or expression you are trying to define with something else similar to it; usually used through analogy or through figurative language such as similes and metaphors
Comparison
understanding how at least two similar concepts are different from each other
Contrast
the history of a word, the evolution of a word or how it has come to be
Etymology
exemplification is defining something by giving examples, while ilustration is giving an example and focusing on it to elaborate on the concept you are trying to define
Exemplification and illustration
beyond denotation and connotation, extended definition is a personal interpretation of an author to an abstract and multifaceted concept
Extended definition
understanding what a word or concept means through knowing its purpose; answers the question: What is it for?
Function
defining a word or a concept by explaining what it is not
Negation
a single word or phrase that shares almost the same meaning with the concept you are trying to define
Synonyms
the language used outside the academe and also among friends; can also be somewhat considered under the umbrella term of synonyms
Slang/colloquial language
are words that give readers an idea of how the points in a paragraph are progressing
Signal devices
the central idea of an essay
Thesis statement
This refers to the attitueds and feelings you want your writing to reflect towards your purpose, topic, audience, and yourself
Tone
is the subject or the specific issue that your paper will discuss
Topic
