Definitions

◍ Definitions are core part of any

dictionary. Writing basic definitions
require skill, practice, and
sometimes help.

2
Two Ways of Defining
Words

3
 “
A technical definition is a definition in technical
communication describing or explaining technical
terminology. Technical definitions are used to introduce
the vocabulary which makes communication in a
particular field concise and clear-cut.
(For example, the iliac crest from medical terminology is
the top ridge of the hip bone.)

4
 “
An operational definition is a demonstration of a process
– such as a variable, term, or object – in terms of the
specific process or set of validation tests used to
determine its presence and quantity. 

5
 Guidelines in Making Definitions:
◍ Just the (dictionary) facts.
◍ A definition should contain the information about the word and what the
word refers to.
◍ Do not include usage notes in a definition. Get to the point. Clarity,
brevity, conciseness are better when writing definitions.
◍ Avoid terms that are more complicated or more technical than the term
being defined. Avoid specific terms. Stay away from jargon.
◍ Highly technical terms should be avoided whenever possible. Although
there are cases which involve the use of a technical term in a specialized
field, it should be minimal.

6
◍ Avoid circularity.

◍ It is not good to define a word with that same word in the definition. Use
different terms.

◍ Make it simple.

◍ Write with simple grammatical structure rather than the complex ones. Place
key terms and short explanations near the start of the definition.

7
 QUIZ

Give 5 technical terms and define it in a sentence

format.
Example:

Term : FUEL
Definition: Fuel is a substance that is burned to produce
energy.
8
 👍
Thanks!
Any questions?