OBSERVING

CORRECT
GRAMMAR IN
MAKING
DEFINITIONS
Previously, you have learned that definition is a statement
of the meaning of a word or word group or a sign or a
symbol. However, in technical writing, we use
definitions to explain the meaning of the word as it
relates to the subject being discussed. The goal of
making or writing definitions is to solve problems and
confusions among the readers. Providing definitions will
enable you, as the writer; and your readers to have a
unified understanding of a term.

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Other than knowing your audience, knowing how to be
thorough in providing description and details will help you
make useful definitions. Knowing the parts of a definition and
correct usage of words will help you write descriptions for your
definitions easily. This lesson will help you in observing
correct grammar in writing helpful definitions.

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The examples below show the parts of a definition:.
“ Parts of a
Definition
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 Parts of a Definition

A. Term refers to the word or phrase that is

being defined. It may be introduced by articles
“the”, “an” and “a”. Written together with the
term is the general class to make an
independent clause.

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 Parts of a Definition
A. Term
If you use Pattern#1 in writing a definition, the term is the
subject of your sentence and the verb to be used
should agree with it. Here are the verbs or verb
conjugation that you can use when writing a definition.

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 Parts of a Definition
A. Term
When writing your definitions, make
sure that the verb you will use
agrees with the subject of your
statement. Remember, a singular
subject should take a singular verb.
A plural subject should take a plural
verb.

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Parts of a Definition

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Parts of a Definition

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Parts of a Definition

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Parts of a Definition

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Parts of a Definition

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PERFORMANCE TASK. Directions: Think of a topic for a
research paper. Then, using the spider map, put the topic
inside the body of the spider and the terms that are related
to your main topic in the smaller circles. Remember, these
terms should be related to your topic and will help you
complete your research paper. Then, from the terms,
choose 5 and make an operational definition for your
research paper. (3 points each definition)

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 Research Titles

The effects of extracurricular activities on the academic

performance of the university students: Evidence from Hajee
Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University (HSTU),
Dinajpur, Bangladesh

Homelessness and Academic Success Among

Female Students at San Jose City, National High
School

Effects of Divorce on Children in Mexico City

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THANK YOU!

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