Purpose: A definition paragraph is a type of paragraph
that defines the essential
qualities of something. While writing a definition paragraph, we aim to inform the
reader what something is with the help of facts and details.
Uses: A definition paragraph can be used to do the
following:
to explain a term that the reader doesn't know.
to explain a term that has a subjective meaning - this means that people can have
different definitions for the same term.
Ways to develop your definition paragraph:
Examples: give several examples that support your topic sentence.
Extended example: Use one longer example to support your idea.
Contrast: Support your topic sentence by contrasting your topic with its opposite. For
example, Some people think happiness is having great achievements, but for
me, happiness is hidden in small things.
1
Read the sample definition paragraph and answer the questions.
Hygge is a Danish word used
when accepting a feeling or
moment as cosy, charming
or special. Danes created
hygge because they were
trying to survive boredom,
boring - adjective boredom - noun
cold, dark and the sameness of the days. For them, hygge was a
way to find moments to celebrate. There's nothing more hygge
than small things in life. It doesn’t matter if you are alone or
with friends, at home or out, doing ordinary or extraordinary
things. Just be aware that hygge means creating a warm
atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life. The
simple act of lighting a candle and enjoying a cup of tea
could make a huge difference to one’s spirit. Perhaps
hygge explains why the Danes are one of the happiest
people in the world.