Essay: meaning, definitions and examples

Formal academic writing often assigned in schools or universities to explore a topic in depth.

• 'I need to write an essay on Shakespeare's influence on modern literature
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A broader term that can refer to any written piece, often used in educational settings when describing student writing assignments.

• 'The teacher asked the students to write a short composition about their summer vacation
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A piece of writing typically published in newspapers, magazines, or online that details information on current events, topics, or specific issues.

• 'She read an article about the latest tech trends in a popular magazine
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Academic writing, often longer and more detailed than an essay, typically required for college and university courses or professional fields.

• 'He spent weeks researching and writing his final paper for the class
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Typically used in academic settings to describe a piece of writing on a particular subject that expresses the author's arguments and analysis.

• She wrote an essay on the impacts of climate change.
• For history class, we need to submit an essay about the Renaissance.

A general term for any task or piece of work given to someone as part of their job or studies. Can include essays, projects, and other types of homework.

• The math assignment is due next Monday.
• Our professor handed out the final assignment for the semester.

Specific to school settings; refers to tasks assigned to students to be completed outside of normal class hours.

• I have a lot of math homework to do tonight.
• My English homework includes reading two chapters of a novel.

Often used in academic and professional environments to describe a detailed account or statement about a particular matter, including findings, results, or analysis.

• The scientist prepared a report on the recent experiment.
• We need to present a report on the sales performance this quarter.