Defining Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
defining
[dษชหfaษชnษชล ]
Definition
action, description
Defining refers to the act of stating the exact meaning of a word or phrase, or establishing the essential qualities of something. It is often used in contexts such as language, philosophy, or science to clarify concepts and ideas.
Synonyms
clarifying, describing, explaining, specifying.
Examples of usage
- Defining terms is crucial in legal documents.
- The professor spent considerable time defining key concepts.
- She is defining her role in the project.
- Defining the project scope is the first step.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Philosophy
- In philosophy, defining concepts is crucial for understanding arguments and ideas.
- Different branches of philosophy focus on different ways to define reality, such as materialism and idealism.
Psychology
- Defining oneโs identity can be a significant part of personal development and self-understanding.
- Psychologists often encourage individuals to define their values and goals for better mental health.
Education
- In education, clear definitions help students understand new topics and ideas effectively.
- Teachers often use definitions to create a foundation for learning complex subjects.
Literature
- In writing, an effective defining moment can create strong character development or plot twists.
- Literary works often explore themes of identity and transformation, which require clear definitions of characters' roles.
Origin of 'defining'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin word 'definire,' which means 'to limit or set bounds.'
- It evolved from Middle French 'dรฉfinir,' which also means to set a boundary or description.
The word 'define' comes from the Latin word 'definire', which means 'to determine, limit, or set bound'. 'Definire' is composed of 'de-' meaning 'down' or 'from', and 'finire' meaning 'to limit, bound, or finish'. This etymology indicates the action of setting clear boundaries or limits around a concept. The usage of the word began in the 15th century as it started to gain traction in English literature and academic discourse. It became a vital part of language, especially in scholarly works, as the need to clarify and specify meanings grew in importance. As language evolved, defining terms became essential in a multitude of fields, including law, science, and philosophy.