How to Write an Abstract Definition Essay

Writing an abstract definition essay first requires you to identify a compelling term.

When writing an abstract definition essay, you attempt to a define an abstract term. Some examples of abstract terms are love, honor, fidelity and virtue. An abstract definition essay relies more on the writer's personal views than definition essays, which define concrete terms such as apple or door and employ technical descriptions. Personal experiences and anecdotes may render your essay more engaging. Breaking the term down into various aspects and analyzing those aspects is one method of structuring such an essay.

Identify the term being defined. Once you have the abstract term you intend to define, the research and brainstorming should become more focused and effective. If you have a choice, choose a term which interests you.

Avoid technical jargon and dictionary definitions. Personalize your essay with anecdotes and experiences which relate to the term being defined. Adding your own experiences allows the reader to engage more with the subject of your writing.

Develop a structure for your essay. An abstract definition essay may be structured according to various formats. You can define the term in relation to an opposite term, or you can analyze various aspects of a term.

Focus on anecdotes or examples that support your abstract definition. Avoid anecdotes or examples that stray from the definition.

Conclude the essay by restating the definition and unifying the themes that were addressed. The reader should finish the essay feeling more informed about the concept that you attempted to define.

Lee Millisaw has been writing since 1998. He's been published in "Beyond Baroque Magazine," "Bordercrossing Berlin" and the "Berkeley Poetry Review." His work has also been featured on National Public Radio. He has a Bachelor of Arts in rhetoric from University of California, Berkeley.

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