What is definition? Pronunciation and usage in English

definition means . Learn how to pronounce and use definition through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of definition

definitionnoun

/ˌdɛfɪˈnɪʃn/
Definition & pronunciation of definition

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "definition." Here's a breakdown and some tips:

The most common and generally accepted pronunciation is:

  • ˌdɛf.ɪˈnɪʃən (American English)
    • ˌdɛf: (deh-fih) - The "def" sounds like "deh" as in "deed."
    • ɪ: (ih) - A short "i" sound, like in "bit."
    • ˈnɪ: (nih) - This is the stressed syllable. It sounds like "nih," with a clear emphasis.
    • ʃən: (shun) - This is the tricky part! It rhymes with "sun" or "fun." It's a "sh" sound followed by an "n" sound.

Here's a more detailed phonetic transcription (using the International Phonetic Alphabet - IPA):

/ˌdɛf.ɪˈnɪʃən/

Here's how to break it down to practice:

  1. "def": Say "deh-fih"
  2. "i": Say "ih"
  3. "nish": This is the key. Really focus on making the "sh" sound, then quickly add the "n." Think of saying "shine" but ending with an "n" instead of an "e."
  4. Combine: Say it all together: "deh-fih-nih-shun"

Tips:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you a few more example words with similar sounds?

Usage and examples with the word definition in English

Let's break down how to use the word "definition" effectively in English. It's a versatile word, but it’s important to understand its nuances.

1. Basic Usage: Providing an Explanation

The most common use of "definition" is to present an explanation of what something is. Think of it as giving the essential meaning.

  • Example: "The definition of 'democracy' is government by the people."
  • Example: “Can you give me the definition of photosynthesis?”
  • Example: "The dictionary provides the definition of each word."

2. As a Noun (the thing itself - explanation)

  • "A definition of..." – This is a very frequent structure.
    • Example: “A definition of happiness is a state of well-being.”
    • Example: “Here’s the definition of ‘ubiquitous’ – meaning present everywhere.”

3. "Definition" as a Verb (to explain)

You can use "definition" as a verb to mean "to explain the meaning of."

  • Example: "The teacher will define the terms tomorrow." (Meaning: The teacher will explain the terms.)
  • Example: “I need you to define this concept for me.” (Meaning: Please explain this concept to me.)

4. Using "Definition" in Sentences – Key Considerations

  • Formal Writing: "Definition" is more common in formal writing, academic papers, and dictionaries. It sounds more precise than simply saying "meaning."
  • Context is Crucial: The surrounding words will always clarify what's being defined.
  • Clear and Concise: A good definition should be as clear and concise as possible.

5. Parts of a Definition

A good definition often includes:

  • Term: The word or concept being defined.
  • Characteristics: The key features or attributes that make it what it is.
  • Relationship: Sometimes, it explains how the term relates to other concepts.

Example of a Detailed Definition:

"Justice is the upholding of what is right, fair, and morally good. It involves impartiality, equality, and the protection of individual rights. It can be achieved through laws, regulations, and ethical behavior."

6. Common Phrases Using "Definition"

  • "According to the definition..." – "According to the definition in the dictionary, happiness is..."
  • "The definition implies..." – “The definition implies that the policy is discriminatory.”
  • "A more precise definition is..." – “A more precise definition of the term would be…”

Resources for Looking Up Definitions:

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • In what context are you trying to use "definition"? (e.g., writing an essay, preparing for a test, just curious?)
  • Are there any specific words or concepts you’re struggling to define?

Synonyms for the word definition

Practice with vocabulary definition

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The research team struggled to agree on a precise _________ for the new meteorological phenomenon.
  2. Can you provide a detailed _________ of the proposed budget cuts for the upcoming fiscal year?
  3. His vivid _________ of the remote Amazonian village captured the imagination of the entire audience.
  4. The legal document required a clear _________ of "proprietary information" to avoid future disputes.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (There may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. In academic writing, it is essential to provide a precise _________ for any specialized terms used. A. explanation B. definition C. interpretation D. description

  2. The art critic offered a compelling _________ of the abstract painting, focusing on its emotional impact. A. synopsis B. explanation C. meaning D. description

  3. The project charter included a concise _________ of key deliverables. A. definition B. outline C. clarification D. summary

  4. Before proceeding with the analysis, we need a clear _________ of the dataset's parameters. A. meaning B. understanding C. definition D. interpretation

  5. After the initial presentation, the client requested further _________ regarding the project timeline adjustments. A. clarification B. elaboration C. definition D. synopsis

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. We need to clarify what "cost-effective" means in the context of this project.
  2. The company's mission statement clearly states what it considers to be its core values.
  3. Could you explain in more detail how the new software update will affect our workflow?

Answer Key

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The research team struggled to agree on a precise definition for the new meteorological phenomenon.
  2. Can you provide a detailed explanation of the proposed budget cuts for the upcoming fiscal year?
  3. His vivid description of the remote Amazonian village captured the imagination of the entire audience.
  4. The legal document required a clear definition of "proprietary information" to avoid future disputes.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. B. definition
  2. B. explanation, D. description
  3. B. outline, D. summary
  4. A. meaning, C. definition
  5. A. clarification, B. elaboration

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. We need a clear definition of "cost-effective" in the context of this project. (Alternatively: We need to define "cost-effective" in the context of this project.)
  2. The company's mission statement clearly provides a definition of its core values.
  3. Could you provide further explanation of how the new software update will affect our workflow?

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