Writing Definitions

Topic - 5

WRITING DEFINITIONS

INTRODUCTION

The word ‘definition' originates from define, which is ‘stating exactly what a thing is. A definition of something may state what it is – whether it is a metal, instrument, machine, etc. This is the core part of the definition. The additional information may cover the primary use of the thing, the state / condition of the thing, a description of the thing, etc. i.e. to say the core part and the additional information constitute a clear definition.

In technical writing we make use of subject specific terms with which many people may not be familiar. Moreover, certain terms mean something to non-technical persons and something else to technical experts. For example, ‘Communication' includes four language skills for most of us but in the world of electronics, it has an entirely different significance. In science and technology, a technical term conveys precise meaning. Generally, technical terms are used with more precision and exactitude than in everyday life.

Look at the following definition

A cow is an animal that is helpful.

It cannot be the definition of a cow, as there are many animal that are helpful. It is just a statement on a cow. A definition should be completed in itself. It should not be nullified by a counter statement.

A definition has two distinct elements. First, the term should be identified as an item of a large group or category. Then its distinguishing characteristics are to be specified in such a way that no other object, device or process should fit into the definition.

Technical Term __________ Category __________ Characteristic features. 

Suppose we want to define an accelerator, we have to determine the group or category to which it belongs. It is a device. Next, its distinguishing characteristic is to be found. It increases and controls the speed of the engine. Now, the definition is clear.

An accelerator is a device for increasing speed, especially the pedal in a vehicle that controls the speed of the engine.

Extended definition

There are certain terms and concepts which can not be defined in one sentence, as such an attempt may not highlight many of their unique features. They may require a more detailed definition running to a short paragraph or even more.

For example, the definition of group discussion cannot be precisely given in one sentence with all its distinguishing features included. It may require more than one sentence. Here is an attempt to define it.

‘A group discussion is a situation in which a small number of persons meet face to face and involve themselves in free oral interaction, exchanging information on some important topic. It is also meant to arrive at a decision or reach a consensus or solve a problem. The number of participants should be at least five to ensure the diversity of views’.

Examples

1. Abacus: is a frame with beads sliding back and forth on wires for doing arithmetic sums.

2. Access time: is the time taken to obtain information stored in a computer.

3. Accumulator : is a temporary storage device used in a microprocessor.

4. Acid : is any of the class of substances containing hydrogen that can be replaced by a metal to form a salt. Acids are usually sour and can often destroy things they touch.

5. Address bus : is a set of wires used to transmit the address.

6. Aerodrome: is a small airport used mainly by private aircraft.

7. Aerodynamics : is the science dealing with the forces acting on solid bodies, e.g. Aircraft or bullets moving through air. 

8. Aeronautics : is the scientific study or practice of constructing and flying aircraft.

9. Air-condition: is a system cools and dries the air in a room or building. 

10. Aircraft : any machine or structure that can fly in the air and carry goods or passengers.

11. Acoustics : a branch of physics which deals with sound.

12. Ammeter: an instrument for measuring electric current.

13. Accountant : a person who checks accounts.

14. Amplifier: a device to increase the strength of electric signals.

15. Audio-cassette tape : a magnetic tape for recording and reproducing sound. 

16. Auditorium : a public hall for hearing. 

17. Aerial : part of a radio system from which the energy is transmitted to or received from the ace. 

18. Alloy: a metallic mixture made up of two or more metals / which contains metals and non-metals 

19. A node : a positively charge plate.

20. Atom : the smallest unit of an element which cannot be further sub-divided and is capable of taking part in chemical reaction.

21. Adhesives : substance used for sticking surfaces together.

22. Brake : a device used for reducing the speed or stopping a moving vehicle. 

23. Baroscope: an instrument which indicates changes in the density of air. 

24. Butcher : is a person who sells meat.

25. Computer : is an electronic device which receives information as the input.

Practice Exercises

1. Define ten technical terms in the area of your study.

2. Define the following terms, making use of the information given against each terms.

1. A computer program - instructions - what the computer should do.

2. Thermometer - instrument - measure temperature.

3. Robot - machine - movement of human being and animals. 

4. Micro film - film - photograph information - storing. 

5. Photocopier - a device - copier document. 

6. Nuclear reactor - device - produces nuclear energy. 

7. Artificial intelligence - computer program - copy intelligent human behavior. 

8. Prints - a machine - print out information for computer.

3. Collect details and write the single line definitions for the following terms.