Definition of Terms

Definition

To define a term is to explain its meaning

Definiendum

Term to be defined

Definiens

Defining term

Purpose

1 To increase one’s vocabulary

2 To minimize/eliminate ambiguity or vagueness

3 To set a theoretical framework

4 To influence attitudes

Types of Definitions

Nominal and Real

Nominal

Name. Expresses what the name means, not what the thing is.

Types of Nominal

Etymological

Synonymous

Definition by example

Definition by illustration

Ostensive definition

Definition by description

Etymological

The definition is derived from the meaning of the original word or words from which the definiendum is derived. Gives the origin of the word.

Synonymous

Gives the same meaning of the term

Synonymous

Baffled meand confused.

Fair is being impartial and unbiased.

Happy means being contented and joyful.

A hardworking person is determined, diligent, and industrious.

Definition by description

Provides a definition as to its physical appearance.

Definition by description

tree: a living thing having roots, a single trunk, some branches, and leaves.

Definition by example

Definition that gives an example of a definition for a more concrete understanding of the term to be defined.

Definition by example

dog: shih tzu, labrador

coffee: Nescafe, Starbucks frappuccino

Definition by illustration

Gives a clear picture of the definiendum through the use of illustration in order to picture the meaning of the term.

Definition by illustration

Mathematical symbols.

Ostensive definition

Definition by simple identification

ostendere (Latin)

“to point”, “to show”

Real Definition

Expresses what the thing is.

Essential

Constructed by a genus and specific difference.

Essential

Man is a rational animal.

Triangle is a polygon with three sides.

Non-essential

Definition by description, Definition by cause

Definition by description

Proper set of characteristics, set of formal features, the properties, and origin of the object.

Definition by cause

Final cause

Efficient cause

Material cause

Formal cause

Final Cause

What is the purpose?

Final Cause

A chair is an object used to sit on.

Efficient Cause

Who is the producer or mover of change?

Who made it?

Efficient Cause

A chair is made by a carpenter.

The chair is assembled by my father.

Material Cause

What are the materials used to produce?

Material Cause

A chair is made of plastic.

A chair is either made of wood or metal.

Formal Cause

What is the shape or appearance?

Formal Cause

A chair has a curve and an elevated surface.

RULES OF A GOOD DEFINITION

1 CLARITY

2 ADEQUACY

3 POSITIVE

4 BRIEF

Clarity

A definition should avoid ambiguity and vagueness.

Clarity

Must not be obscure.

Clarity

Must not be figurative.

Clarity

Happiness is a way station between too little and too much.

Adequacy

Must be specific.

Adequacy

Not too broad.

Adequacy

A square is a four-sided polygon.

Adequacy

Not too narrow.

Adequacy

A woman is a married mother.

Positive

Must not be negative.

Positive

Beautiful is not ugly.

Brief

Must not be circular.

Brief

A cookbook is a book for cooking.

Brief

A cookbook is a book for cooking.