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Definition Essay Writing

Definition Essay Topics

150 Best Definition Essay Topics For Students

12 min read

A Closer Look at Definition Essay

A definition essay is a type of academic writing that defines or explains a word, term, concept, or idea. There are some words that have literal meanings and they are very easy to explain i.e. pencil, table, chair, etc.

There are some terms that have abstract meanings and are difficult to explain i.e. love, care, emotion, and feelings.

This type of essay includes both the official meanings of the word and the writer's interpretation. This interpretation is supported by examples.

A good definition essay will not exceed one page in length, and it should include 250-500 words. The goal is for the student to expand on a word’s usage. This can be done by explaining other possible concepts of what they are analyzing - this makes them more interesting!

Definition Essay Topics Ideas

When you search over the internet you’ll get plenty of definition essay topics. Having a lot of ideas in hand can make the topic selection process difficult. That is why we have compiled a list of some effective and interesting definition essay topics.

Check out these creative definition essay topics lists below and choose the best one for your essay.

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Definition Essay Topics for High School Students

Identity in the Digital Age
Empathy in a Diverse World
Global Citizenship
Intellectual Curiosity
Civic Engagement
Environmental Stewardship
Ethical Leadership
Cultural Fluency
Mindfulness in Education
Critical Thinking

Definition Essay Topics for College Students

What is the meaning of optimism?
What does sincerity mean?
Love at first sight
The true meaning of respect
The actual definition of family
Define Buddhism
Who is a strong leader?
What is the actual meaning of ambitions?
Define racism in your own words
How will you define success?

Definition Essay Topic on Mass Media

The evolution of 'news' in the digital age: redefining journalism.
The true meaning of 'media bias': navigating perspectives.
The influence of 'social media': defining modern connectivity.
The power of 'advertising': shaping perceptions and desires.
Reality TV: a new definition of 'entertainment'?
The impact of 'fake news': deconstructing information manipulation.
The definition of 'clickbait': balancing engagement and misleading content.
Streaming services: redefining 'television' in the 21st century.
The role of 'podcasts' in modern communication: beyond radio.
Citizen journalism: broadening the scope of 'media.

Funny Definition Essay Topics

Awkward Dancing
Chaos Theory
Social Media Stalking
Mismatched Socks
Infinite Scroll
Bad Hair Days
Pajama Fashion
Fast Food Gourmet
Napping Olympics
Pencil Tossing

Creative Definition Essay Topics

The Essence of Wanderlust: Defining the Spirit of Adventure
Epic Fails: The Art and Science of Learning from Mistakes
Digital Detox: Navigating Life in the Age of Screens
Ambition Redefined: Pursuing Dreams in the Real World
Friendship in the Digital Age: The Modern Definition of 'BFF'
Mindfulness Unveiled: Embracing the Present Moment
Nostalgia: Journeying into the Past Through Rose-Tinted Glasses
Resilience: Bouncing Back from Life's Unexpected Twists
The Art of Simplicity: Finding Beauty in the Basics
Silence Speaks: Exploring the Power of Quiet Moments

Easy Definition Essay Topics

Privacy
Humanity

Good Definition Essay Topics

Describe laziness
Define attitude
What is magnetism?
How do you define attraction?
Define human rights
What is the meaning of responsibilities?
Time management
Define health
Define class
What is the meaning of wealth

Unique Definition Essay Topics

The quirkiness of 'fam': exploring unconventional family structures.
The essence of 'chill': beyond a relaxing vibe.
Defining 'awkward': navigating social discomfort.
The true meaning of 'indie': beyond music and film.
The 'vibe' culture: capturing the unspoken atmosphere.
Decoding 'meme culture': more than just humor.
The complexity of 'cool': an ever-changing definition.
The 'hacktivist' movement: merging hacking and activism.
Retro: nostalgia or a timeless definition?
The art of 'hygge': coziness in a single word.

One Word Definition Essay Topics:

Sustainability

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Classification and Definition Essay Topics

Types of friendship: defining bonds beyond acquaintanceship.
Genres of literature: from mystery to science fiction.
Learning styles: understanding varied approaches to education.
Personality types: navigating the landscape of traits.
Cuisine categories: exploring the world through food.
Forms of government: beyond democracy and authoritarianism.
Music genres: from classical to experimental.
Social media users: the diverse landscape of online presence.
Educational philosophies: from Montessori to Waldorf.
The world of gaming: classifying video game genres.

Simple Definition Essay Topics:

Friendship: what does it truly mean to be a friend?
Happiness: beyond smiles and laughter.
Home: defining the heart of comfort.
Success: navigating achievements and fulfillment.
Courage: facing fear with grace.
Kindness: the power of small acts.
Respect: cultivating dignity in interactions.
Family: beyond blood ties.
Trust: the foundation of genuine connections.
Wisdom: gained through experience and reflection.

Extended Definition Essay Topics

What does the term freedom mean?
Define ownership in your own words
What is the meaning of the term character?
The current American dream
The evolution of the definitions
Define experience in your own words
What is common sense?
Explore the term science
What role does a degree play in a student’s life?
Time: The Elusive Concept That Shapes Our Lives

Random Definition Essay Topics

Small business
Masculinity
Artificial Intelligence
Individuality

Definition Argumentative Essay Topics

Democracy vs. Dictatorship
Meaning of two sides of a coin
Classical music vs. Pop music
Friendship vs. Love
The Fluid Concept of 'Justice'
Equality vs. Equity
The Definition of 'Art'
Security in the 21st Century
Defining 'Fake News' in a Post-Truth Society
The Definition of 'Heroism'

Controversial Definition Essay Topics

Defining Patriotism: Where Loyalty Ends and Extremism Begins.
Freedom of Speech: Navigating the Thin Line Between Expression and Harm.
The Slippery Slope of Political Correctness: Balancing Respect and Censorship.
The Fluid Boundaries of 'Cultural Appropriation' in Art and Fashion.
Gender Identity: Beyond Binary – The Controversy of Pronouns.
The Definition of 'Addiction': Disease or Personal Responsibility?
Euthanasia: Dignity in Death or Slippery Moral Slope?
The Controversy of 'Trigger Warnings': Protecting or Censoring?
Defining 'Fake News' in a Post-Truth Era: Information or Manipulation?
The Line Between 'National Security' and Invasion of Privacy.

How to Choose a Definition Essay Topic?

The success of your essay majorly depends on the topic. A good topic is a key element in writing a good essay. So when you choose a topic for your essay, keep the following things in mind.

Choose a topic that has a broad meaning rather than a literal meaning.
Make sure you understand the topic completely.
Make sure that the subject should be interesting for you.
The topic should be interesting for the reader as well.
Choose a word, idea or term that is fresh for the audience.
Avoid picking any common topic that the reader is already familiar with.
Choose an idea that connects with your target audience.

Choosing a controversial topic is quite easier than choosing a common definition essay topic. As you have a few options to choose from and a little space to write about it. But if you keep the instructions given above in mind, you can easily choose an amazing topic for your essay.

Tips on How to Write a Definition Essay

Here are some tips that you should learn before writing your essay. These steps will help you structure your essay in a proper format.

Pick an interesting and unique paper topic.
Research the topic thoroughly and collect detailed information about it.
Create a definition essay outline , it will help you follow the essay pattern. Without an outline, it is really difficult to craft a good essay according to the format.
Tell the exact meaning of your subject in the introduction part. Present the thesis statement that provides a detailed meaning of the essay topic. Your introduction should be able to grab the reader’s attention and make them read the complete essay.
In the body paragraphs, provide evidence that supports your personal and dictionary definitions. Elaborate on the topic with the help of your personal experience examples.
In the conclusion section, just sum up all the explanations and descriptions. This is akin to closing remarks, so do not provide a fresh idea over here. Provide your close remarks and finish the essay.
After writing the essay, spare some time for the proofreading and editing process. Check your essay for spelling and grammatical mistakes. Remove all the errors from the essay to make it flawless.

Definition Essay Structure

Your final definition paper may have a structure similar to this:

A copy-pasted or paraphrased definition from the dictionary.
Writer’s personal understanding and interpretation of the word.
An example of the usage of the word in a real context.
Supporting evidence justifying the writer’s interpretation of the word.
Conclusion summarizing each point briefly.

In conclusion, our exploration into the world of definition essays has been a journey of discovery. We've dived into the meanings of words, navigated through controversies, and embraced creativity. Words are more than just letters; they have the power to shape thoughts and connect us in unique ways.

This essay writing guide will help you a lot in writing your essay. Make sure you follow the procedure so that you don’t make any mistakes.

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Definition Essay Guide

Definition Essay Topics

Last updated on: Dec 28, 2022

Interesting Definition Essay Topics for Academic Essay

By: Leanne R.

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: May 4, 2021

Your definition essay does not have to be boring. Though it should present the actual definition of the chosen subject, you can also present some interesting information about the topic. There is no restriction that you should only discuss the dictionary definition of the topic. You need to collect sufficient information from credible sources to make your essay informative and interesting.

However, to write a definition essay, you need to first come up with a good topic. A good definition essay specifically defines an idea, word, term, or concept. It defines the paper topic in a way that becomes easily understandable for the reader. It can be written for both types of words that have concrete or abstract meanings.

Here we have presented a list of interesting topics to help you get started with your definition essay. Check out the list given below and choose the best topic for your essay.

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Good Definition Essay Topics for Students

You might be wondering which are good definition essay topics that you can use for writing your essay. Stop stressing out and have a look at the list given below. We have compiled a list of some amazing definition essay topics for all academic-level students.

Universal definition of love
Importance of self-respect
Capitalism vs. communism
Sense of humor
What is kindness?
How do you define nobility?
What is the meaning of confidence?
How do you define the term freedom?
Define creative writing
Define optimism

Easy Definition Essay Topics for College Student

Define charisma
The versatile feeling of love
Define democracy
What is the dictionary definition of maths?
Define psychology
What is a political party?
Define feminism
What is the meaning of a successful career for you?
What is the meaning of independence to you?
Define terrorism in your own words

Definition Essay Topics for High School

Define Pythagoras theorem
What is millennial?
Define sportsmanship
Define chemistry
Define industrial revolution
How do you define a hero?
What is physical fitness?
Define multiculturalism
Define laziness
Define physics

Interesting Definition Essay Topics

Choosing an interesting topic for your essay is the first step towards writing a successful essay. Once you have an interesting topic in hand, you can easily write a perfect and flawless essay quickly. Here is a list of interesting definition essay topics we have compiled for you.

What is classical music?
Devotion to pets
Heterogeneous vs. homogeneous
Define romance in your own words
Define a correlation between passion and love
What does being a good person mean?
How is artificial intelligence benefitting our lives?
Pros and cons of smartphones?
Describe globalization
Define culture diversity

Definition Argumentative Essay Topics

Who is better, a team player or an individual player?
Define mental health
Pros and cons of using the internet in school and college
What is the meaning of “two sides of a picture.”
What kind of influence do drugs have on children’s brains?
Definition essay on Love vs. hate
Define the term “white privilege.”
Define the clause “beauty with brains.”
Define death penalty
What is happiness?

Controversial Definition Essay Topics

Define the concept of race as a social construct.
How do you define democracy?
The non-importance of money
Unrealistic expectations
What are the main causes of global warming?
What is the purpose of cloning?
The consequences of insane love
How did famous people succeed?
Define racial segregation
What is cheating, and how does it impact a relationship?

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Extended Definition Essay Topics

Looking for an extended definition essay topic so that you can easily write a long definition essay?

We have got your back!

Here is an amazing extended definition essay topics list for your help. Choose the one that interests you the most.

What is climate change?
Discuss the pastry war
Define ambitions
Define friendship and best friend
Define a dog as an emotional support animal
Define the love of parents
Why do people become drug addicts?
What is cybercrime, and what are its penalties?
Significance of learning social values
What is the meaning of a “balanced diet” and maintaining a “healthy weight.”

Creative Definition Essay Topics

Define literary theme
How to cope with laziness?
Define wisdom
Define anarchism
What makes someone a villain?
Rugby Vs. Football
What makes a culture diverse?
What was the Arab spring?
What makes a good cover story?
Define being free and truly happy

Funny Definition Essay Topics

Money: a source of happiness
How do Robots work?
First breakup
Interpretation of being ugly
What are dreams?
Define contemporary art
Why can’t we feel the movement of the earth?
What is fun for you?
Define the best holiday
Why deserts are better than fruits

Definition Exemplification Essay Topics

In an exemplification definition essay, you are supposed to explain a controversial subject by exploring different perspectives about it. You need to assess the subject thoroughly and then demonstrate it clearly to the reader. Check out the list given below and choose the best definition exemplification essay topic.

What is a cold war?
Define your perspective about dreaming
Define self-development
Define individuality
Define social media
Define maturity
How does an area become polluted?
What is “everyday life”?
Give your perspective about rituals.
Define secularization

Abstract Definition Essay Topics

Unique definition essay topics.

Define the concept of privileged
Free time at work
Why is the customer always right?
Is courage and bravery the same?
How is wisdom different from knowledge?
How to win someone’s trust?
Define honesty
How do you define generosity?
Can people live without the internet?
How to take fewer photographs?

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Definition Classification Essay Topics

Definition classification essay is a type of academic writing in which the writer has to classify an object, character, or idea. Classification essays are not very popular among professors, so they might not assign you a topic. For your help, we have presented some easy definition classification essay topics here. Check out the list given below.

Define the concept of grief
What was the Spanish inquisition?
What is the importance of voting?
Love of God
Define the term “history.”
What is the meaning of the term “just.”
Traits of a good person
What is peer pressure?
Cause and effects of inflation
Traits of a lazy person

Definition Essay Topics With Multiple Meanings

Natural beauty
Independence
Perfect couple

Definition Persuasive Essay Topics

Define friendship in your own words
Define bravery
How do you define Gothic Romanticism?
What is the concept of the perfect family?
What does “stereotype” mean?
Inhuman things people do
Bad effects of inflation
Pros and cons of e-learning
Business Women
Child marriage

How to Write a Good Definition Essay?

Now that you have a long list of topic ideas, you can easily choose a topic for your essay. After choosing the topic, the next step is to write the definition essay. Here are the steps that you need to follow to write a perfect definition essay.

Thoroughly research the topic of your essay and collect credible information.
Create an essay outline to organize the information
Draft a strong thesis statement that clearly defines your topic
Present the dictionary definition in the introduction paragraph
Use the body paragraphs to explain the essay topic in detail
Compile the details in the conclusion paragraph
Reread and revise your essay to remove all the mistakes and errors
Have someone proofread your essay

Follow these steps and write the perfect definition essay in no time. However, if you feel the need to get help, contact us immediately. 5StarEssays.com is a legal paper writing service that helps students with academic writing.

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How to Write A Definition Essay - Topics and Samples

Breaking Down Concepts: A How-To Guide for Writing Definition Essays

Table of contents

1 What Is a Definition Essay?
2 Choosing the Right Topic
3 What Is the Purpose of a Definition Essay and Creating an Outline?
4.1 Introduction:
4.2 Body Paragraphs:
4.3 Conclusion:
5.1 Understanding the Term Thoroughly
5.2 Use Multiple Sources for Definitions
5.3 Classify the Term
5.4 Separate a Word Into Various Parts
5.5 Begin your essay With a Standard Definition
5.6 Incorporate Your Thesis Early
5.7 Consider Different Viewpoints or Interpretations
5.8 Use Real-Life Examples and Anecdotes:
5.9 Analyze the Term’s Origin and History
5.10 Discuss the Term in Different Contexts
5.11 Compare and Contrast
5.12 Address Common Misconceptions
5.13 Introspection and the Effect of the Defining Term
6 List of Definition Essay Topics
7 Striking the Balance in Academic Writing

The definition essay is one of the most popular types of assignments students can face. Hence, we aim to equip you with the tools to write a definition essay. It will meet academic standards and engage readers with eloquence and insight.

In this article, we will discuss the following:

In this article, we delve into the intricacies of writing a definition essay:
Starting with understanding its purpose and the art of selecting the right topic.
We’ll discuss the significance of brainstorming and outlining before delving into the essay structure.
The writing tips and techniques include understanding the term thoroughly, using multiple sources for definitions, classifying and analyzing the term, incorporating real-life examples, and considering various viewpoints.
Additionally, we’ll cover the importance of addressing common misconceptions and the introspective impact of the defining term.

What Is a Definition Essay?

Definition essays are one of the most popular types of essays .

A definition essay is a type of writing that explains and explores the meaning of a complex, abstract, or multifaceted term. It involves presenting a detailed and personal understanding of the term, often supported by research and examples.

However, a definition essay structure goes beyond the bounds of argumentative or descriptive essays. A definition essay seeks to articulate the essence of a chosen term or concept. Its purpose is to delve into the nuances. Thus, it offers a comprehensive understanding that transcends common usage.

An extended definition essay dissects a subject, providing a nuanced examination. It allows readers to grasp its depth and breadth. Also, it doesn’t argue a point or vividly depict a scene but clarifies and refines understanding. Here, the writer strives to illuminate the chosen term through careful language selection. Consequently, they offer readers a profound insight beyond superficial definitions.

Choosing the Right Topic

The process of choosing the correct definition essay topic necessitates a delicate balance. It must be expansive and engaging. Opt for a captivating concept that seizes the reader’s attention, steering clear of mundane options. Besides, steer clear of defining physical objects. Instead, opt for abstract and complex terms such as “love,” “bravery,” or “happiness.” You can find such concepts in any field and choose something suitable.

These subjects offer fertile ground for in-depth exploration, enabling you to unravel layers of meaning and provide a nuanced perspective. Delving into the abstract empowers your essay to transcend mere dictionary definitions. Thus, you invite readers to intellectual and emotional discovery.

What Is the Purpose of a Definition Essay and Creating an Outline?

Before writing a definition essay, you need to brainstorm and outline the process. Brainstorming generates a pool of ideas, providing a foundation for your essay. The creative springboard sparks innovation and ensures a thoughtful exploration of your topic. Creating an outline for the definition essay serves as the roadmap, organizing thoughts cohesively. It structures your narrative, preventing aimless tangents and enhancing overall clarity. These preliminary steps streamline the writing process. It makes writing a definition essay more efficient and rewarding.

Structuring the Definition Essay

Here is the standard essay structure . If you don’t know how to start a definition essay, these tips will help you.

Introduction:

Starting your introduction requires an engaging approach. The initial segment should captivate the reader’s attention while precisely defining your statement. For this purpose, present the chosen word, explaining a concept essay through the lens of the dictionary definition.

Chart the course of your work, outlining the path you will traverse. Importantly, embed your viewpoint within the thesis, ensuring it reflects your stance on the topic.

We advise you to begin your definition paper with a compelling hook that captivates the reader’s attention:

a surprising fact;
a thought-provoking rhetorical question;
a brief anecdote related to the term you’re defining.

Next, provide the standard dictionary definition of the term. It establishes a baseline understanding for readers. Additionally, present your interpretation through a clear definition essay thesis statement. This thesis is the central idea you will delve into throughout the essay.

Body Paragraphs :

The focal point lies in the main text, which explains how to compose a definition argument essay. It is where your critical information and arguments take center stage. The task involves elucidating and expanding your definition essay thesis with:

diverse personal opinions;
definitions.

Each paragraph in the body of your basic essay should concentrate on a different aspect or component of your definition. Moreover, explore various dimensions of the term. It can be its connotation, denotation, historical context, societal implications, or personal meaning.

Use specific examples and personal anecdotes to illustrate each aspect of your definition. These concrete definition essay examples make abstract concepts more relatable. Besides, consider comparisons and contrasts with similar or opposite concepts to clarify the meaning.

After, acknowledge any complexities or nuances associated with the term. Some terms may have different meanings in various contexts, so exploring these intricacies is crucial.

Indeed, a definitive essay demands specific writing skills and knowledge, and Papers Owl stands ready to assist students. Our experienced writers offer valuable guidance and support. They ensure that each definition essay is meticulously written.

Conclusion:

Summarize the key points discussed in the body paragraphs. Afterward, provide readers with a concise recap of the various aspects of your definition.

The good idea is to sta te your thesis statement for the definition essay in the conclusion. Accordingly, emphasize it with the evidence and examples in the essay’s body.

Write a concluding paragraph with some final thoughts or reflections. Find an example of a definition essay. It could help you. This way, it could involve discussing the importance of understanding the term and its relevance in a broader context. Also, it offers personal definitions and reflections on its significance. By wrapping up with thoughtful insights, you leave the reader with a lasting impression of the term you’ve explored in-depth.

Writing Tips and Techniques for Crafting an Excellent Definition Essay

Understanding the term thoroughly.

Before embarking on a definition essay format, it is paramount to comprehend the chosen term thoroughly. Dive into its complexities, nuances, and various dimensions. It will help to lay the groundwork for a comprehensive exploration.

Use Multiple Sources for Definitions

Rely on diverse sources to define your chosen term. The standard dictionary definition is a starting point. Besides, consulting multiple sources adds depth and richness to your deep understanding. This multifaceted approach ensures a more nuanced portrayal of the term.

Classify the Term

Offer readers clarity by classifying the term based on standard dictionary definitions. Describe the classes and parts of speech. You can create a foundational understanding when dealing with complex words.

Separate a Word Into Various Parts

Consider breaking the specific word down into its parts for complex terms. This approach is especially beneficial when dealing with intricate concepts. Moreover, it can be better comprehended when dissected.

Begin your essay With a Standard Definition

Start your paper by presenting a standard definition in essay introduction. As a rule, it must be sourced from reputable references.

Incorporate Your Thesis Early

Integrate your thesis statement early in the introduction. Remember to articulate your perspective on the term clearly to guide the direction of your essay. This proactive approach sets the tone for the reader, offering a roadmap for what lies ahead.

Consider Different Viewpoints or Interpretations

Acknowledge the diversity of perspectives surrounding the term. Explore various viewpoints and definition essay ideas to present a well-rounded analysis. This inclusivity enriches your essay and demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the term’s multifaceted nature.

Use Real-Life Examples and Anecdotes:

Enhance the relatability of your expository essay by incorporating real-life examples and anecdotes. Illustrate the meaning of the term through tangible scenarios. For this purpose, make abstract definition essay concepts more authentic and engaging for the reader.

Analyze the Term’s Origin and History

Delve into the origin and historical evolution of the term. It will help you create an analytical definition essay.

Discuss the Term in Different Contexts

Explore how the term’s meaning varies in diverse cultural, social, or professional contexts. Highlighting these contextual shifts contributes to a more comprehensive and nuanced exploration.

Compare and Contrast

When applicable, employ comparison and contrast to elucidate the term’s meaning. Also, draw parallels with similar terms or highlight differences with opposing concepts. It adds clarity and depth to your definition.

Address Common Misconceptions

Identify and clarify any common misconceptions about the term. Addressing misunderstandings contributes to a more accurate and informed understanding among your readers.

Introspection and the Effect of the Defining Term

Conclude an essay with introspection by reflecting on the person and broader implications of the defining term. Thus, explore how the term resonates on a personal level. You need to know its impact in broader societal contexts. This conclusion adds a reflective dimension to your essay. It leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

List of Definition Essay Topics

Explore a range of compelling topics for your definition essay. From abstract concepts like love and freedom to concrete ideas like sustainability and democracy, this list offers diverse options for insightful exploration

Defining Emotional Intelligence
What Constitutes True Happiness?
The Essence of Creativity
The Concept of Cultural Heritage
Understanding Social Justice
The Meaning of Home
What is Altruism?
The Definition of Success
Exploring the Idea of Freedom
The True Nature of Courage
What Does ‘Family’ Mean?
The Concept of Wisdom
Defining Personal Growth
The Meaning of Resilience
What is Empathy?
Understanding Sustainability
The Essence of Democracy
The Definition of Innovation
What Constitutes a Hero?
The Concept of Mindfulness
The True Meaning of Leadership
The Nature of Ambition
What is Philanthropy?
Understanding Globalization
The Meaning of Art
The Concept of Justice
What Defines a Community?
The Essence of Integrity
What is Spirituality?
The Definition of Patriotism
Understanding Self-Respect
The Concept of Beauty
What is Wisdom?
The Nature of Addiction
Defining Mental Health
The Meaning of Education
What Constitutes Peace?
The Concept of Power
Understanding Authenticity
The Essence of Passion
What Defines a Role Model?
The Concept of Serenity
Understanding Mindfulness
The Definition of Love
What is Respect?
The Nature of Bravery
Defining a Crisis
The Meaning of Adventure
What Constitutes Wellness?
The Concept of Liberty

Striking the Balance in Academic Writing

This article unraveled the intricacies of crafting a nuanced definition essay. It emphasizes thorough research, diverse perspectives, and illustrative examples. As a key takeaway, mastering this genre requires a blend of precision and creativity. Remember the critical art of balancing active and passive voices in academic writing. Striking this equilibrium ensures clarity, engagement, and a dynamic narrative. While the active voice imparts directness, the passive voice navigates formality.

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Definition Essay Topics - Best Picks for You

In this article, you'll embark on a learning journey to grasp the ins and outs of what makes a definition essay unique. We'll guide you through the art of crafting these essays, providing you with the essential skills and techniques to express your ideas effectively. But that's not all – our platform, where you have the option to buy essay online , will also open the door to a world of inspiration with a plethora of engaging topic suggestions and enlightening example essays. With this resource at your fingertips, you're poised to become a confident and skilled at writing a definition essay in no time!

What is Definition Essay

Definition essay is a type of academic writing that aims to explain the meaning of a specific term, concept, or idea in detail.

At first glance, a definition essay might seem like the most straightforward form of writing. After all, it's right there in the name, isn't it? You define something, and you're done! Well, not quite. While the basic premise is to provide a clear and concise explanation of a particular term or concept, the true artistry of your definition custom essays lies in its ability to transcend mere dictionary definitions. It's a form of linguistic gymnastics, a quest to unlock the multifaceted nature of words and ideas.

Consider this: Is a tree merely a collection of roots, branches, leaves, and bark? Or is it something more profound? Exploring a topic for a definition essay ventures beyond the ordinary to dissect these elements, exploring their significance, historical context, and even their emotional resonance. It delves into the nuances, exposing the rich tapestry of meanings that a single word can carry.

One of the most alluring aspects of the definition essay topics is its dance with ambiguity. Words are not always neatly packaged entities; they often morph with time and context. What was once a straightforward term can evolve into a complex, multidimensional concept. This essay form allows writers to revel in this ambiguity, to question and examine the ever-shifting boundaries of language.

When generating captivating definition research paper topics , these concise points can serve as a starting point:

Cultural Shifts : Investigate how societal changes reshape a term's meaning.
Controversial Concepts : Explore terms sparking debates with multiple interpretations.
Untranslatable Words : Delve into culturally unique, untranslatable terms.
Morphing in the Digital Age : Examine how digital advancements redefine terminology.
Philosophical Abstractions : Analyze complex philosophical concepts.
Cultural Context : Study how terms vary across cultures and regions.
Concepts in Literature and Art : Explore how artists redefine terms.

Key Aspects of Good Definition Essay Topics

Choosing the right definition essay topic can be as daunting as searching for buried treasure. However, when it comes to writing a definition essay, the quest for the perfect topic becomes an art in itself. So, what are the key aspects of a captivating definition essay topic? Let's embark on this intellectual adventure and unearth the gems hidden within these topics.

Complexity and Depth : Much like when learning how to write a hook for an essay , look for terms that aren't just superficial labels but concepts with depth, history, and room for interpretation.
Controversy and Debate : Seek out topics that spark debate and controversy. These are the battlefields of ideas, where multiple perspectives collide.
Relevance and Significance : The best topics are those that resonate with the times. A topic that speaks to the human experience, both past and present, is worth its weight in gold.
Personal Connection : A great definition essay topic often has a personal resonance. This personal connection can infuse your essay with passion and authenticity, making it more engaging for your readers.
Room for Exploration : A good topic should provide ample room for exploration. It shouldn't be so narrow that you run out of things to say after a few paragraphs, nor so broad that it becomes overwhelming.
Intellectual Challenge : Embrace the challenge. A good topic should make you think, question, and dig deeper. It should push you to research, analyze, and perhaps even challenge your own assumptions.
Uniqueness : Finally, strive for uniqueness. While classic topics have their merits, exploring lesser-known terms or offering a fresh perspective on a well-trodden path can make your essay stand out.

Diving into Intriguing Definition Essay Topics

Having a captivating informative essay topics or social issues topics at your disposal is like holding the key to unlocking a world of ideas. It's your ticket to dive deep into a subject, concept, or notion and let your creativity soar. Below, you'll find an endless list of definition essay topic ideas to spark your creativity and inspire your writing journey. So, let your exploration begin!

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Having a captivating topic at your disposal is like holding the key to unlocking a world of ideas. It's your ticket to dive deep into a subject, concept, or notion and let your creativity soar. Below, you'll find an endless list of captivating topic ideas to spark your creativity and inspire your writing journey. So, let your exploration begin!

Extended Definition Essay Topics

Resilience: How do we not just overcome challenges but learn and grow from them?
Define "civilization" beyond advanced technology. Consider factors like ethics and social structures.
Happy Accidents: What makes a lucky find turn into something truly amazing?
Distinguish true innovation from mere invention. How does innovation address current needs?
How does disinformation differ from simple misinformation?
With technology getting more advanced, what does it mean to be a cyborg?
Define sustainability beyond environmentalism. How does it encompass social and economic factors?
What does it mean to be a global citizen in an interconnected world?
Define cultural appropriation with nuance. How can we appreciate cultures without disrespecting them?
In an increasingly demanding world, define a healthy work-life balance. How can we achieve it?
Nostalgia: Why do we love remembering the good old days, even if they weren't perfect?
Analyze the complexities of cancel culture. What are its potential benefits and drawbacks?
As AI continues to evolve, what would it mean for it to achieve sentience?
Define the metaverse and its potential impact on society.
Algorithmic Bias: How can we make sure computers don't treat people differently because of mistakes in their code?

Funny Definition Essay Topics

Explain Procrastination: Why do we wait until the last minute to do things, even with snacks involved?
Being a Grown-Up: How to pay bills, do laundry, and pretend you know how to use a dishwasher.
The "I Woke Up Like This" Look: The truth behind messy buns and "no makeup" makeup.
Mom-isms: A Dictionary: Understanding what your mom really means when she says things like "clean your room" or "we need to talk."
The 5-Second Rule: Why dropped food is totally okay to eat if you grab it fast enough.
Explanation behind the Resting Grumpy Face phenomenon.
Define the awkward phase of the Friend Zone with tips for maybe getting out or staying happy where you are.
The Quiet Game: Explain how to be okay with those uncomfortable silences in conversation.
Mansplaining: A funny look at explaining things to someone who already knows.
Define social media with hilarious ups and downs of trying to show a perfect online life, even when things are messy behind the scenes.
Netflix Binge Olympics: Training tips and snack strategies for the intense world of competitive binge-watching.
The Bermuda Triangle of Laundry: Where mismatched socks and single earrings go to vanish forever.
Why are afternoon naps awesome, even if you wake up with sleep marks?
How buying things (even when you don't need them) can make you feel happy.
Why talking to yourself isn't crazy; it's just a way to solve problems.

Society Definition Essay Topics

Teamplayers vs. Lone Wolves: How do people work together in a group versus doing things on their own?
Following the Rules (or Not): What are rules in society for, and why do people sometimes break them?
From Strangers to Friends: How do people become friends and build communities?
Sharing is Caring (Usually): Why do we share things with others, and what happens when we don't?
Fashion Follies: How do trends in clothing and style reflect society as a whole?
Fads vs. Traditions: What's the difference between something everyone does for a short time and something people do for generations?
Helping Hands: Why do people volunteer and help others in need?
Celebrating Differences: How can people from different backgrounds come together and learn from each other?
The Power of Words: How can what we say affect others and society as a whole?
Social Media Circles: How do online platforms connect people and shape how we see the world?
City Life vs. Country Living: What are the pros and cons of living in a crowded city versus a quiet rural area?
The News Feed: How do news and information travel through society, and how does it affect us?
From Small Towns to Global Stage: How are local communities connected to the wider world?
Changing with the Times: How do societies adapt and change over time?
The Future We Build: How can we work together to create a better society for everyone?

Creative Definition Essay Topics

Community: A group of people living in the same area who share things and help each other.
Culture: The beliefs, customs, and arts of a particular group of people.
Social Class: A group of people with similar wealth, income, and education.
Family: A group of people related to each other, like parents and children.
Social Mobility: The ability to move up or down in social class.
Diversity: Having many different types of people, ideas, and cultures.
Social Media: Websites and apps used to connect with people and share information.
Technology: The tools and machines that people use to make life easier.
Education: The process of learning knowledge and skills.
Law: The rules that a society creates to keep order.
Social Norms: The unwritten rules about how people behave in a society.
Government: The group of people who make and enforce laws.
Socialization: The process of learning the ways of a society.
Tradition: The customs and beliefs that are passed down from generation to generation.
Social Change: The way that a society changes over time.

Common Definition Essay Topics

What are the different forms of love, and how do they shape our lives?
How do we build trust in relationships, and why is it so important?
What defines a true friend, and how do friendships impact us?
Why is honesty essential in all aspects of life?
How does respect foster positive connections with others?
What does happiness mean to you? How can we achieve a sense of fulfillment?
What are the different types of fear, and how can we overcome them?
What is kindness, and how does it make the world a better place?
How does loyalty strengthen bonds in our relationships?
What is gratitude, and how can we cultivate it in our daily lives?
How does patience help us navigate challenges in life?
What does hard work mean, and how does dedication lead to success?
Why is perseverance important for overcoming obstacles?
How does life experience shape wisdom? What does it mean to be wise?
What is peace, and how can we find calmness in our everyday lives?

History Definition Essay Topics

What is the Renaissance, and Why is it Important?
Describe the Industrial Revolution and its impact on society.
Who Were the Ancient Egyptians?
What is Feudalism?
Discuss the importance of the Silk Road in connecting different cultures.
What Led to the Fall of the Roman Empire?
Explain how democracy began in ancient Greece and its evolution.
Define colonialism and discuss its effects on colonized countries.
Narrate the main causes of World War I and its consequences.
What Was the American Civil Rights Movement?
The Meaning of the Cold War
Define imperialism and provide examples of its practice in history.
Discuss how Enlightenment ideas have shaped contemporary society.
What Triggered the French Revolution?
The Significance of the Magna Carta

Philosophy Definition Essay Topics

Do we have free will, or are we just along for the ride?
Is there more than meets the eye? Discuss the different ideas about reality.
If there's a good God, why do bad things happen? Tackle the problem of reconciling suffering with a benevolent higher power.
Can we ever be absolutely sure about anything?
What is consciousness, and how does the mind relate to the brain?
Is there a point to life? What makes our existence meaningful?
Ethics: What makes something right or wrong?
What is Existentialism, and how do we create meaning in a world without inherent purpose?
What does it mean to be fair?
Who are we, really? The Mystery of the Self.
Is there more to the universe than we can see? Discuss metaphysics.
The Quest for Knowledge: How do we acquire knowledge, and what constitutes justified belief?
What is Logic? Introduces the principles of reasoned argument and their importance in sound decision-making.
Aesthetics: Is beauty in the eye of the beholder? Or is it universal?
How do we become good people? Virtue Ethics Explained.

How To Choose Definition Essay Topics

Selecting the perfect words for your paper can be a formidable task. Here's a guide to help you navigate this linguistic maze:

Embrace Complexity : Don't settle for words with a single, straightforward meaning. Opt for terms that invite you to flex your writing muscles and showcase your subject expertise.
Stir Debate : Seek words that thrive on controversy within varying contexts. A great definition essay thrives on the debates surrounding the term, so choose words that spark discussions.
Build Your Lexicon : Create a repository of potential definition essay topic ideas, especially when your instructor leaves the choice up to you. Having a list ready ensures you're never short of intriguing subjects.
Multiple Meanings : Delve into the richness of language by exploring words with multiple meanings. They offer a canvas for you to paint multifaceted portraits of ideas, pushing your writing to new heights.

Definition Essay Example

Here, we've prepared some compelling definition essay examples that illuminate the richness of language and thought, providing clarity on topics both familiar and intriguing. These definition essay topics invite you to embark on a journey of understanding, where your own words and concepts reveal their hidden depths and discover more about the human experience.

Final Words

In the realm of definition essays, the power of words to shape our understanding of the world becomes evident. Through this diverse array of topics, we've unlocked the doors to deeper comprehension and insight. So, choose your definition essay topic wisely, apply your unique perspective, and let the fascinating world of definitions broaden your horizons, one word at a time. And if you ever need a simple yet helpful guide to how to write a conclusion for an essay , we've got you covered on that too!

Unlock the Lexicon of Brilliance!

Choose your best definition essay topics today and let our word wizards conjure intellectual magic!

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

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Are you looking for some of the best definition essay topics available? If so, you are in the right place. In this blog post, we have discussed great definition paper topics that can help you complete your assignment. Continue reading to understand the meaning of definition essay topics, explore the best way to select one, and get common tips to help you write a quality essay. Our essay writing services have also provided a list of topic ideas on various subjects to guide your research and writing.

What Are Definition Essay Topics?

A definition essay is a paper that explains the meaning of an idea, word, or term. It can also be described as an intricate dictionary that not only defines a term but also provide in-depth explanation and illustrations. Definition essay topics are the primary subject matters in a definition essay. Writers expound on definitions essay topics to inform readers about concepts or explain a word or term that has an abstract meaning. When researching topics for a definition essay, you should explore alternative interpretations from different perspectives. In other words, you can provide both official meaning and your personal interpretation with multiple examples. This type of paper, in many instances, should not be more than 250-500 words long.

Characteristics of Good Definition Essay Topics

Good definition essay topics share some unique characteristics. When selecting a subject matter, you should consider an issue that is simple to write and is interesting to readers. So, what is a good topic for a definition essay? Good definition paper topics should:

Have multiple meanings and interpretations.
Relate to unique word, phrase, or concept that will engage readers.
Discuss a subject that is both interesting and informative.
Relate to subjects that you have many different perspectives on.

How to Choose a Definition Essay Topic?

Topics you select play a key role in determining your success in writing an academic paper. Choosing definition topics can be very challenging. In many cases, instructor will provide you with a list of ideas to pick from. However, in other scenarios, you may be required to research a definition essay topic from scratch. In this section, you will find common tips to guide you in choosing paper topics. Follow the steps below to select a good definition paper topic.

Select good words to write a definition essay on. Avoid words with single meanings.
Pick argumentative phrases and concepts which will enable you to express your writing skills and knowledge on your preferred subject. You should be able to write more than one paragraph on your selected topics.
Check for unique words and phrases that can engage your potential readers.
Develop a list of all possible topics to select from.
Choose a topic you are sure about. Select a topic that you have broad knowledge and points of view on.

It’s always a great idea to consult your professor before commencing a task. But if you need some writing inspiration, take a look below or try our Random Essay Topic Generator .

Best Definition Essay Topics List

Choosing a good topic is your first step towards writing a good academic paper. If you follow tips provided in sections above, you should be able to select some of the best definition essay topics available. Definition essay topic list below outlines great examples that you can choose from.

How can you define fun?
What does affirmative action mean and how is it being used in present-day society?
What is religion?
Define the argument concept.
How do you define social class?
What is artificial intelligence?
Are centralized and decentralized governments any different?
What is a personal understanding of power?
What is cryptocurrency and how does it deviate from the conventional financial system?
What is your understanding of corporate social responsibility?

Definitional Argument Essay Topics

For definition argument essay topics, you need to write about subjects that attract divergent opinions and thus, closely debated. Therefore, rather than having a topic that is straightforward and one-dimensional, definition argument topics should be argumentative in nature. Below are some examples of definitional argument topics in case you don’t know how to title an essay :

Physical activity should be encouraged more in schools.
Explain advantages and disadvantages of capital punishment.
Do high school students benefit from take-away assignments?
Abortion should be a legalized service.
Sex education should be included in school curricula from an early age.
Plastic surgery creates unrealistic beauty standards.
Is working out beneficial to your mental health?
Vaping is more dangerous compared to smoking.
Grading should be abolished in schools.
Genetically modified products are dangerous and should be abolished.
Video games negatively affect children’s social development.
Tertiary education should be free.
Is it ethical to use animals as test subjects?
Euthanizing animals is unethical.
Should vaccination be made mandatory?

Extended Definition Essay Topics

Contrary to other topic categories, extended definition essay topics take up more pages. A simple elucidation will not suffice. You will need to provide elaborate explanations and illustrations for readers to better understand extended definition topics. Below are some examples of extended definition essay topic ideas that you can use:

What does true friendship mean in modern-day society?
What makes a good partner in marriage?
What does misogyny and bigotry mean in the 21st century?
What are the main characteristics of a good leader?
Religious bigotry in Pakistan.
What is your interpretation of a mature individual?
What makes a person trustworthy?
What is your definition of a happy marriage?
What is the difference between ego and high personal standards?
How can you define common sense?
What is a creative mind?
What is a healthy weight?
Who is a patriotic citizen?
Who is an intelligent person to you?
What are the characteristics of a good person?

Need more ideas? Check our blog with extended essay topics and spot a catchy title.

Controversial Definition Paper Topics

Due to people’s divergent opinions, some subjects are very controversial. You risk offending a certain group of your readers when discussing controversial paper ideas. You should, therefore, pay more attention and be keener when discussing them. Below are examples of controversial topics for definition papers:

Ethical justification of death penalty.
Different ages of consent across different cultures.
Is abortion the murdering of an unborn child?
What is the meaning of gun control?
What is social media addiction?
What is the definition of mental disorder in modern society?
Difference between sex and gender.
What is a physician-assisted suicide?
What is the modern interpretation of feminism?
What is a juvenile correctional system in the US?
What laws regulate immigration in America?
What is freedom of speech in the context of modern society?
What are the residency rights of Palestinian in Israeli-occupied Palestinian territories.
What is considered as explicit content in 21st century society?
What is home-schooling and its benefits?

Good Topics for a Definition Essay

To select good topics for definition essays, you need to have a perfect balance of creativity and intellect to come up with a subject that will intrigue your audience. Also, good definition essay topics should be simple to write and not complex to follow for your readers. Below is a list of some good topics:

What does “peace of mind” mean?
What is your perception of poverty in different social classes?
Define different types of art.
What is your personal understanding of love?
What is reverse racism?
What is global warming and how does it impact climate change?
Difference between respect and admiration.
What is your understanding of the term “natural beauty”?
What is the meaning of good parenting?
Define the concept of the rule of law.
Define the right to privacy in the context of modern-day technology.
What does sportsmanship mean?
Explain peer pressure and its impact on school-going children?
What is online shopping?
What is the meaning of the term “gender neutral”?

Once you spot a perfect idea and realize that the deadline is approaching, remember that you can trust professionals and order an essay online at StudyCrumb .

Creative Definition Essay Topics

You need creative definition essay writing topics if you wish to capture your readers’ attention. When exploring definition topic ideas for your essay, you should ensure that it is not only informative but also intriguing. In this section, you will come across some of the most creative topic ideas that you can use to develop a good essay.

What is love at first sight?
What is a respectable job?
How do you differentiate pleasure from happiness?
What is the difference between risk-taking and stupid decisions?
What is courage?
How does high self-esteem differ from arrogance?
What is the meaning of self-respect?
Define creativity and provide different types of creative works.
What is the meaning of a creative mind?
What is a nuclear family and its composition?
Define the concept of best friends.
How can you discern self-respect from pride?
Are religious people more moral?
Why are the best students less successful in life compared to average students?
How do you define dedication in a relationship?

Easy Definition Essay Topics

Complexity of definition essay topics varies depending on students’ academic level or the target reader. For example, a high school student will work on an easy topic for a definition essay compared to a college student. Below are some simple topics for a definition paper:

What is racism?
What does it mean to be a good student?
What is the meaning of term “peer pressure”?
What is the meaning of laziness?
What is greed?
What is the meaning of cyberbullying?
What is classical music?
What is the definition of charisma?
What does it mean to become wealthy?
What exactly is hard work?
How do you keep power?
How can you define the word optimism?
What does the term “ agriculture ” mean?
What is the meaning of indoor sports?
What is the meaning of teamwork?

Definition Essay Ideas for Students

Sometimes, instructors may require students to write a definition essay. Good topics for definition essay should be relevant to the course content or school curriculum in general. Moreover, ideas for definition essays tend to vary depending on the academic level of students and their majors. This section outlines common definition essay topics across the high school and college levels.

Definition Essay Topics for High School

In this section, we will discuss definition essay topics that are suitable for students in grades 9-12. High school definition topics are simpler. Some definition essay topics often relate to grade-specific information. Some of the best topics are outlined below.

Explain the meaning of trust in the context of friendship.
What is the right age to start dating?
Differentiate between knowledge and wisdom.
Define the term “conspiracy theory”.
Differentiate between marriage and cohabitation.
Define the communism concept.
Define consumerism in present-day society.
Define antisemitism.
Discern intellectual from intelligent.
What is the meaning of positive discrimination and how can it be used for the benefit of society?
Differentiate between nature and nurturing in the development of children.
Meaning of avatar in the metaverse.
What is conflict management?
Define Murphy’s Law and how it can be applied in your life.
Discuss the meaning of birth control.

Definition Essay Topics for College Students

Definition essay topics for college students are more advanced. Unlike at the high school level, where topics are not very complex, college students may be expected to research on topics that have multidimensional points of view. Are you finding trouble coming up with topics for definition paper? You can pick one from options provided below.

What is the meaning of Islamophobia?
Define the 3rd wave of feminism.
Define gene therapy and its role in the medical field.
What is the meaning of materialism and how does it vary in different cultures?
Differentiate between communism and capitalism.
How is male and female gaze used differently in cinema?
Define virtual education.
How have beauty standards evolved since the 20th century to the present-day?
Define Xenophobia in American society.
What is multiculturalism and how does it impact modern society?
How does social media affect attractiveness standards?
Define the concept of utilitarianism.
What is the meaning of a marriage in 21st century society?
Define and discuss effects of digital revolution.
What is green energy?

In case you also need ideas for a descriptive essay , we’ve got a blog with a whole assortment of interesting topics.

Definition Essay Prompts

Haven’t found ideas for a definition essay that intrigues you from the options above? Do not worry. There are still many prompts for a definition essay that are discussed in this section. There are many prompt options on multiple subjects to choose from. Ideas for definition essays have been filtered and categorized into various subjects to inspire your academic writing. Depending on your interests and preference, you can select the clearly sorted topics from the categories below.

Definition Essay Topics About Love

Love is a complex subject. The meaning of love and how it is illustrated varies from one person to another. At one point in your life, you must have experienced love. Love is a term that has multiple meanings and varied implications, making it a widely discussed definitional essay topics. Below are some of the popular definition ideas about love.

What types of love do you know?
Define various characteristics of love.
Love between human and non-human.
Define the term “love language”.
Is love at first sight a true phenomenon?
Is parental love automatic?
Is there a difference between love and friendship?
What is the meaning of self-love?
Discuss true love.
Does passion affect a person’s mental health?
What is God’s love?
Define same-sex love.
The meaning of love in different cultural setups around the world.
What is your ideal Valentine’s Day date?
Define the term “soul mate”.

Family Definition Topics

Family is another multidimensional subject that has a wide spectrum of meanings. You can approach the issue from different angles, including family values, members of a family, and other related aspects. Definition paper topics about family should be written in a manner that will make it feel personal to attain optimum reaction from readers. Below is a list of ideas for a definition essay.

What is the structure of a 21st century family?
Effect of teenage pregnancy on families.
Explain child marriage.
How does the concept of family vary across different cultures around the world?
What is the meaning of a nuclear family in present-day society?
Differentiate between an immediate and a chosen family.
How does the increased rate of divorce affect families?
Compare the traditional understanding of family to the modern meaning.
Define family values in today’s society.
How has the internet and technology affected the institution of family?
Differentiate joint families from private families.
How does foster families impact child development?
Define the primary role of a family in your life.
Define the elements of a strong family.
How do financial problems affect the stability of families?

Friendship Definition Essay Prompt Ideas

Friendship is another subject that is very close to many people’s hearts. Most of us have at least one person we call a friend. Relationship dynamics between different friends vary. It is understandable for people to have diverse opinions and strong feelings about the subject. As a result, there are many definition essay prompts on friendship for you to choose from. Some of the definition papers topics include:

Explain the meaning of a true friendship.
How much commitment does true friendship need?
Discuss the concept of “friends with benefit”.
Can you discern friendship from love?
Are friends closer to you than family?
What are the impacts of friends on your personality?
Differentiate between online friends and physical friends.
Define the concept of “best friends forever”.
Is a dog a man’s best friend?
How can you elaborate “friendship zone”?
Define a platonic relationship.
Can family members be friends?
What is the ultimate test of true friendship?
Can you have more than one best friend?
What is your understanding of the phrase “loyal friend”?

Hero Definition Essay Topics

A person’s idea of heroes and their qualities varies from one time to another. Besides, there is no universal standard for categorizing individuals as heroes. You can easily come up with many hero definition topic ideas due to these divergent opinions. Examples of definitive essay topics on this subject include:

Who is a hero?
Explain visual presentation of heroes in the past versus present-day society.
What are some characteristics of a hero?
Discuss the stereotyping of heroes in Hollywood.
Are heroes supposed to perform heroic actions?
Origin of super human abilities as a stereotypical characteristic of a hero.
Mythological versus modern-day heroes.
Differentiate between role models and heroes.
How can heroes inspire you?
Define different types of heroes.
Define the term “anti-hero”.
What is a hero in real life?
Explain how the concept of hero varies from one culture to another.
Is possessing superpowers a mandatory requirement to be a hero?
Define heroes as portrayed in Ancient Greek mythology.

Definition Essay Topics by Subject

Ideas for definition essays can fall into different categories depending on intention or the nature of the paper. We have grouped topics for a definition essay into six categories to simplify the process of selecting your preferred topic. Rather than looking through all definition topics, you can easily focus on the subject that aligns to your academic writing interests.

Business Definition Essay Topics

Below are good topics for a definition essay related to business:

Define economic depression.
What is the meaning of e-commerce?
What is social media marketing?
Define the term “start-up”.
What is the meaning of acquisition, merger?
Define international trade.
What is corporate social responsibility?
What is a business?
Important roles of statistics in business.
What does small and mid-size enterprise mean?

Definition Essay Topics on History

Learning about history is pivotal in ensuring that you are prepared for future events. Some of the best definition essay ideas include:

What is history?
Define the abolitionist movement.
What is the American Civil War?
Define the Arab Spring.
What is independence?
What is colonization?
What was the Civil Rights Movement?
What is a war?
Discuss the Vietnam War.
Define the concept of revolution.

Politics Definition Essay Topics

There are many different political systems in the world. In addition, political leaders have diverse political ideologies. As a result, people approach political science topics from different points of view. Commonly discussed topics for a definition essay include:

What is democracy?
Define federal versus state government.
What is a monarchy?
Define anarchism.
Define the term “whistleblowing”.
What does the term “witch hunt” mean?
Define the Fifth Amendment and efforts to enact it.
What is a totalitarian regime?
What is a political party?
What is a trade union?

Philosophy Definition Essay Topics

Philosophers in the past have been credited for the development of present-day society, government, and the education system. As a result, many philosophical things have been discussed over the years. Below is a list of some common definition topic ideas:

Define devotion.
What is utilitarianism?
What is freedom?
Define humanity.
How do you define justice?
Define beauty.
Define conflict of interest.
How can you explain the term “aura”?
Retribution versus rehabilitation.
Define consciousness.

Definition Essay Topics on Psychology

The study and practice of psychological concepts have increased significantly in the recent past. Below is a list of good definition essay topics related to the subject in case you are also interested:

Define attachment theory.
What does absolute threshold mean?
Explain the placebo effect?
What is a mental disorder?
Define avoidance learning.
What is a conditional reflex?
Define PTSD.
What is emotional intelligence?
Is gender dysphoria a mental disorder?
Define depression.

Technology & Science Definition Essay Topics

With advancements in technology, many people have increased interest in technology and science. The list below outlines definition essay topics that you can use for your paper. Check these ideas or browse these technology research topics if you need more suggestions.

What is clean energy?
Define fossil fuel.
Explain the term “augmented intelligence”.
Define identity theft.
Define virtual assistance software.
Define right to privacy in the current digital era.
What does the technological term “cookies” mean?
What is cloud computing?
What is technology?
Define targeted marketing.

Liked the ideas? We have more blogs dedicated to different title ideas such as expository essay topics , analysis essay topics , satirical essy topics etc. Browse through our articles to find a fitting topic for any assignment.

Bottom Line on Definition Essay Topics

In sum, a definition essay is a common type of an academic paper that requires you to define a word, term, or concept. As a student, you should be able to select good topics for a definition paper. This article provides you with excellent tips to help you in the process of identifying great definition essay topic ideas. In addition, the blog post has many examples of definition essay ideas on various subjects to simplify the writing process for you. This post should increase your chances of success in writing a definition paper.

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FAQ About Definition Paper Topics

1. what are some good definition speech topics.

Not all definition essay topics are suitable for public speech. You should choose a topic that will capture the attention of your audience. Popular definition speech ideas include:

What is the meaning of discipline?
What is the modern-day standard of success?
What are the benefits of electric vehicles?
What is the value of time?

3. What are some great definition essay topic ideas?

This list outlines some great topic for definition essay that you can use for your definition paper.

What is industrialization and how does it affect today’s society?
What is grief?
What does liberalism mean as a political movement?
Define religion and its role in society.
Discuss roles of religion in promoting radicalization.

2. What are popular argumentative definition essay topics?

Good definitional argument topics ideas are characterized by divergent opinions. Example of these topics include:

Define pro-life versus pro-choice.
Define same-sex marriage?
Define patriotism in the context of American society.
Define overpopulation and its danger to earth’s ecosystem.
Define economic disparity across different ethnicities.

Daniel Howard is an Essay Writing guru. He helps students create essays that will strike a chord with the readers.

Definition Essay Topics: How to Choose the Best?

What Is a Definition Essay? ‍ Definition Essay Structure

How to choose a topic?

Topics by Category

MoreTopic Ideas

Final Words

Writing a definition essay can seem pretty simple. All you need to do is to pick a word and explain what it means. After all, what can be so hard about it? But wait, it only seems that simple until you start writing. Compared to all other essay types, definition papers can get rather tricky, if not challenging.Writing a definition essay can seem pretty simple at first sight. All you need to do is to pick a term and explain what it means in your own words. After all, what can be so hard about it? But wait, it only seems that simple until you start writing. Unlike all other essay types, definition papers can get tricky, if not challenging.

A student must look deep into the problem to create an A-worthy definition paper. It is not enough to simply rephrase the standard definition. Instead, it is necessary to approach the chosen word from different perspectives, look at it from different angles, consider its origin, and keep an eye for detail. That’s the key to success.

Is that all? Unfortunately, writing itself is not the only problem. A lot depends on whether you can choose an effective topic for a definition essay. If you handle this task, you can ensure the success of your essay. But if you fail, no matter how high-quality your essay's content is, you will most likely not get a high grade. Thus, it is vital to make the right choice.

Sounds too confusing and complicated? We get you. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! This article will tell you everything you need to know to choose brilliant topics. Also, here, we will share a list of good definition essay topics to help you find inspiration and get on the right track!

What Is a Definition Essay?

A definition paper is one of the most common essay types, often assigned in schools and colleges. This type of paper has a similar structure to a regular essay. However, it has a different purpose. Our paper writing service will tell you in detail what it definition essay and how to work with it correctly.

In a nutshell, the core goal of definition essays is to explain a chosen word, phrase, or complex to the reader. Therefore, students must carefully study and analyze the desired concept to achieve this goal.

Some of the key things to include in your essay are:

A common dictionary definition (in your own words)
Origin of the term
The modern meaning, as well as other old or less known definitions
History of the word
Your personal opinion

How long should an essay be? This type of paper is rather short. Typically, it has to be around 500 words. Your goal is to explain the chosen concept to the fullest without exceeding the word limit or making your essay too short.

Since the main focus of this type of essay is a single word or concept, the choice of topic is the most important step. Definition essay topics can be very different. They can be more abstract, like morality or justice, and more specific, like computers or music. In many cases, abstract topics are better as they allow more creativity and give you plenty of scope for research.

In this article, we will tell you how to pick a perfect topic for your definition essay and share some great topic ideas that you can choose right now.

Definition Essay Structure

In the process of composing any essay type, writing skills define success. Hence, useful tips are what you need at all stages, including writing an outline. Usually, students write definition essays by the general essay rules. So, by common sense, your work should look like this:

Introduction and thesis statement
Several body paragraphs

Essay writing guides recommend performing good research before writing a plan. Start with an interesting sentence to draw your reader’s attention. Then, for the main body, look up all the explanations of the particular word. How do people understand its literal meaning? How does society use it in everyday life? Maybe, you have a personal experience connected to this term, so write about it! Finally, as an illustration, pick an abstract word like self-esteem or peer pressure.

Eventually, add some closing remarks where you rephrase the main idea of the work. Now you have your perfect essay without hiring writers, thanks to professional writing advice!

How to Make the Right Choice of a Definition Essay Topic

As you probably already know, a good topic is a key to success in writing any academic paper. A definition paper is not an exception. To create a high-scoring paper, you must know how to choose the right topics for a definition essay. After all, how can you possibly create an A-level essay if your subject does not engage the readers?

Okay, that’s clear, but how can you define a good topic for a definition essay and what isn’t? Choosing the essay topic can be troublesome, no matter how easy it may seem. It shouldn’t be boring. At the same time, it has to give you enough scope for research and be clear.

Finding the right combination can be hard. But, we, the professional writing service, are here to lend you a helping hand! We gathered some of the handiest dos and don’ts that will help you find good definition essay topics at ease.

Start in advance to have enough time to choose a perfect topic and conduct thorough research.
Read a few samples of an essay to get a clear idea of what topics other students choose and understand what teachers expect of you.
Make a list of options you can choose.
Opt for topics that are clear and familiar to you.
Conduct primary research to collect facts and details about your options.
Analyze the available facts to choose the right topic.
Don’t choose a topic that is too boring.
Don’t opt for too generic words that are clear to everyone.
Don’t choose words that don’t have any hidden meaning.
Don’t use topics that are too controversial and create debates since your goal is to define the term but not to argue about something.

These basic tips will help you identify the right topic for essay writing. But, let us give you one more piece of advice. To ensure that your theme is truly engaging, you should pay close attention to details. Namely, here are the main things you have to learn about the chosen word or term:

Background - Before writing, you should have a clear idea of the origin of the chosen word. Find out where it came from, who used it first, etc.
Meaning - meanings of words tend to transform throughout the years. Thus, it is important to find out if your word had a different meaning initially that changed over time. Conduct research and collect facts from good sources.
Antecedent versions - just like the word's meaning can change over time, the form itself can also change. So be sure to check if there were any early versions of the same word.
Application - how was this word used in the past? And how is it used today? Discover different applications of the same word to find controversies in usage.

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7 Most Common Types of Definition Essay Topics Lists

All definition essay topics can fall into several categories based on the purpose and nature of the essay you want to write. To use our service, you must choose the right topic category that aligns with the purpose of your academic writing, making it easier for our experts to help me write my paper effectively.

In this section of our article, we are going to take a closer look at the seven most common definition essay topics and provide high-quality definition essay topics examples for each:

Extended Definition Essay Topics

In a nutshell, this type of work is pretty much the same standard definition paper. The core goal stays the same - your task is to explain particular words, phrases, or abstract terms. The only key difference is that it requires you to make an even deeper analysis. Also, this type of work allows you to showcase your personal opinion.

A perfect topic for this type of work has to be complex enough to let you analyze it deeply. Therefore, you should pick terms that have a broad meaning.

Now that you know about the key features of this type of paper, here are a few good extended definition essay topics for you to try:

What does it mean to be brave, and how is it different from having courage?
What is faith?
What is the true meaning of love?
How to define beauty?
What does trust mean to you, and what role does it play in our lives?
What is honesty?
How is wisdom different from knowledge?
What does it mean to be generous?
What is respect, and how is it manifested?
Why is hatred the most destructive feeling of all?

Definition Argument Essay Topics

A definition argument essay not only explains a concept but also strives to persuade the reader of something. It requires you to find the argument for definition essay topics that focus on an ill-defined or controversial concept. Then, you need to define your stance on a particular matter and convince readers of your perspective.

Here are some good definition argument essay topics to consider:

Mobile devices should be allowed in the classroom.
Racial segregation in the US.
What are the worst crimes of all?
Is the death penalty an arrogance or justice?
Sports is the best hobby for youth.
What is patriotism, and why is it vital in the modern world?
Global warming: What is it, and what are the main causes?
Why is corporate social responsibility inherent in the corporate world?
Should uniforms be obligatory in every school?
Should schools stop assigning homework?

Definition Essay Topics for College

College definition papers have the same purpose and requirements as standard definition essays. The main difference is that they must be deeper and clearly understand the defined concept.

To help you get on the right track, we have prepared ten great definition essay topics for college:

Who can be called a best friend?
What does it mean to have good mental health?
Define male chauvinism.
What is the true nature of hatred?
What is brand loyalty, and why does it matter?
Define cyberbullying.
The phenomenon of antisemitism.
What is success?
Define maturity.
What does self-determination mean?

Funny Definition Essay Topics

While there is no place for humor in most essay types, a definition paper allows you to showcase your sense of humor by choosing a funny concept to define or offering readers an amusing viewpoint on something.

Here is a funny definition essay topics list to help you find inspiration:

Why are funny cats videos the best thing in the world?
The most awkward date.
What is sarcasm, and why don't people get it?
Why should [a celebrity of your choice] go for the next US president?
Why do people love advertisements?
Why are dogs people’s best friends?
High-school stereotypes and why they can be good for you?
Why should animals have more rights than people?
How to become the most annoying you can be?
How to waste your time properly and always get away with it?

Controversial Definition Essay Topics

Definition essay topics that are controversial may be hard to disclose in a paper, but they are fun to discuss. Here are a few controversial themes to consider:

Is happiness that important?
Are vaccines good or bad for us?
Playing video games is good for you.
What is nationalism, and why is it bad?
Is e-learning more or less effective?
Artificial Intelligence: A new stage of evolution or a global hazard?
The pros and cons of spam.
What measures of punishment are unacceptable in a healthy family?
Is romance dead these days?
What are the positive aspects of war?
How does a healthy weight connect with body aesthetics?
Is honesty an unattainable trait of a good person?

Abstract Definition Essay Topics

While more specific words and terms are easier to define, more abstract topics can give you more space for creativity. In addition, abstract topics with multiple meanings allow you to interpret a chosen word or concept in your way.

Here is a list of some good abstract topics to choose from:

What is freedom?
Compassion: How to define it and why is it important?
What does being lonely mean to you?
What is boredom?
Laughter is the best medicine
What is grief?
Why do friendships mean so much in our lives?
Explain the concept of adolescence.
Define charisma.
What is civility?
What does the term freedom mean today?

Easy Definition Essay Topics

It is great if you are willing to explore a complex concept in your essay. But, remember that it is also okay to look more into easy topics. Easy definition essay topics are only different because you can explain them using a dictionary.

Typically, words, phrases, and concepts that are easy to define are pretty specific and narrowed. Here are a few ideas:

What does family mean to you?
Explain democracy.
Define the term equal rights.
What is poverty?
What can make a certain house your home?
What does it mean to be kind?
Explain terrorism.
What does marriage mean to you?
What is e-commerce?
Define colonization.

Topics for Definition Essay about Poetry, Love, and Music

What does platonic love mean?
Define poetry.
Why is poetry one of the most admired forms of art?
How is love expressed in different cultures?
Why do we love music?
Music is an alternative form of communication.
Define the connection between music and emotions.

Definition Essay Topics about Food, Health, and Sport

What is health and why is it important?
Explain mental health.
Why is doing sports good for you?
What is the difference between mental and physical health?
What is healthy eating?
Explain the impact of the food we eat on our health.

Definition Essay Topics about Environment and Nature

What is nature?
Define what an environment is.
The origin of the word “environment.”
Provide different definitions of nature.
What is deforestation?
Define the term “endangered species.”

Definition Essay Topics About Politics, History, and Governance

The origin of the word “politics.”
What is politics?
What is history?
The evolution of the term “history.”
Define the term governance.
What are the different forms of governance?

Definition Essay Topics About IT, Business, Commerce, and Economics

What does it mean to be a businessperson?
Explain economic freedom.
The origin of the term “IT”
What does business ethics mean?

The Bottom Line

To wrap up everything we’ve discussed in this article, let’s take a look at the key rules of choosing a good definition essay topic once more:

The word or concept you are going to define should have multiple meanings.
It should be more specific than broad.
You should choose a topic that interests you.
It should be something you know.
It is vital to analyze the chosen concept well, identifying its origins, common meanings, etc.
It can be helpful to figure out the history of the word or term and its previous versions.

On top of that, you can think of society definition essay topics or sports definition essay topics. Ensure that you provide the different explanations in your research paper!

Choosing a topic for a definition essay is hard. But writing the paper itself is even harder. It takes solid skills, an in-depth understanding of the subject matter, and a lot of time to create an A-worthy essay. Luckily, there are endless interesting definition essay topics for college students.

However, don’t get stressed if you are feeling stuck! If you lack time for writing a definition paper or have no idea how to do it, ask the team of PaperWriter and buy an essay , we are always here to help you! Trust real pros in academic writing and get an A+ with ease!

Read also our synthesis essay example . This guide will definitely be useful for you.

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52 Argumentative Essay Ideas that are Actually Interesting

What’s covered:, how to pick a good argumentative essay topic, elements of a strong argumentative essay, argumentative essay idea example topics.

Are you having writer’s block? Coming up with an essay topic can be the hardest part of the process. You have very likely encountered argumentative essay writing in high school and have been asked to write your own. If you’re having trouble finding a topic, we’ve created a list of 52 essay ideas to help jumpstart your brainstorming process! In addition, this post will cover strategies for picking a topic and how to make your argument a strong one. Ultimately, the goal is to convince your reader.

An argumentative essay tasks the writer with presenting an assertion and bolstering that assertion with proper research. You’ll present the claim’s authenticity. This means that whatever argument you’re making must be empirically true! Writing an argumentative essay without any evidence will leave you stranded without any facts to back up your claim. When choosing your essay topic, begin by thinking about themes that have been researched before. Readers will be more engaged with an argument that is supported by data.

This isn’t to say that your argumentative essay topic has to be as well-known, like “Gravity: Does it Exist?” but it shouldn’t be so obscure that there isn’t ample evidence. Finding a topic with multiple sources confirming its validity will help you support your thesis throughout your essay. If upon review of these articles you begin to doubt their worth due to small sample sizes, biased funding sources, or scientific disintegrity, don’t be afraid to move on to a different topic. Your ultimate goal should be proving to your audience that your argument is true because the data supports it.

The hardest essays to write are the ones that you don’t care about. If you don’t care about your topic, why should someone else? Topics that are more personal to the reader are immediately more thoughtful and meaningful because the author’s passion shines through. If you are free to choose an argumentative essay topic, find a topic where the papers you read and cite are fun to read. It’s much easier to write when the passion is already inside of you!

However, you won’t always have the choice to pick your topic. You may receive an assignment to write an argumentative essay that you feel is boring. There is still value in writing an argumentative essay on a topic that may not be of interest to you. It will push you to study a new topic, and broaden your ability to write on a variety of topics. Getting good at proving a point thoroughly and effectively will help you to both understand different fields more completely and increase your comfort with scientific writing.

Convincing Thesis Statement

It’s important to remember the general essay structure: an introduction paragraph with a thesis statement, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. A strong thesis statement will set your essay up for success. What is it? A succinct, concise, and pithy sentence found in your first paragraph that summarizes your main point. Pour over this statement to ensure that you can set up your reader to understand your essay. You should also restate your thesis throughout your essay to keep your reader focused on your point.

Ample Research

A typical argumentative essay prompt may look like this: “What has been the most important invention of the 21st century? Support your claim with evidence.” This question is open-ended and gives you flexibility. But that also means it requires research to prove your point convincingly. The strongest essays weave scientific quotes and results into your writing. You can use recent articles, primary sources, or news sources. Maybe you even cite your own research. Remember, this process takes time, so be sure you set aside enough time to dive deep into your topic.

Clear Structure

If the reader can’t follow your argument, all your research could be for nothing! Structure is key to persuading your audience. Below are two common argumentative essay structures that you can use to organize your essays.

The Toulmin argument and the Rogerian argument each contain the four sections mentioned above but executes them in different ways. Be sure to familiarize yourself with both essay structures so that your essay is the most effective it can be.

The Toulmin argument has a straightforward presentation. You begin with your assertion, your thesis statement. You then list the evidence that supports your point and why these are valid sources. The bulk of your essay should be explaining how your sources support your claim. You then end your essay by acknowledging and discussing the problems or flaws that readers may find in your presentation. Then, you should list the solutions to these and alternative perspectives and prove your argument is stronger.

The Rogerian argument has a more complex structure. You begin with a discussion of what opposing sides do right and the validity of their arguments. This is effective because it allows you to piece apart your opponent’s argument. The next section contains your position on the questions. In this section, it is important to list problems with your opponent’s argument that your argument fixes. This way, your position feels much stronger. Your essay ends with suggesting a possible compromise between the two sides. A combination of the two sides could be the most effective solution.

Is the death penalty effective?
Is our election process fair?
Is the electoral college outdated?
Should we have lower taxes?
How many Supreme Court Justices should there be?
Should there be different term limits for elected officials?
Should the drinking age be lowered?
Does religion cause war?
Should the country legalize marijuana?
Should the country have tighter gun control laws?
Should men get paternity leave?
Should maternity leave be longer?
Should smoking be banned?
Should the government have a say in our diet?
Should birth control be free?
Should we increase access to condoms for teens?
Should abortion be legal?
Do school uniforms help educational attainment?
Are kids better or worse students than they were ten years ago?
Should students be allowed to cheat?
Is school too long?
Does school start too early?
Are there benefits to attending a single-sex school?
Is summer break still relevant?
Is college too expensive?

Art / Culture

How can you reform copyright law?
What was the best decade for music?
Do video games cause students to be more violent?
Should content online be more harshly regulated?
Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?
Should schools ban books?
How important is art education?
Should music be taught in school?
Are music-sharing services helpful to artists?
What is the best way to teach science in a religious school?
Should fracking be legal?
Should parents be allowed to modify their unborn children?
Should vaccinations be required for attending school?
Are GMOs helpful or harmful?
Are we too dependent on our phones?
Should everyone have internet access?
Should internet access be free?
Should the police force be required to wear body cams?
Should social media companies be allowed to collect data from their users?
How has the internet impacted human society?
Should self-driving cars be allowed on the streets?
Should athletes be held to high moral standards?
Are professional athletes paid too much?
Should the U.S. have more professional sports teams?
Should sports be separated by gender?
Should college athletes be paid?
What are the best ways to increase safety in sports?

Where to Get More Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

If you need more help brainstorming topics, especially those that are personalized to your interests, you can use CollegeVine’s free AI tutor, Ivy . Ivy can help you come up with original argumentative essay ideas, and she can also help with the rest of your homework, from math to languages.

Definition Essay Topics

But writing an effective definition essay requires exploring the nuances of a word and explaining it from several different perspectives. Confused? Don’t worry, this article will tell you everything you need to know about how to write a high scoring definition essay.

What is a Definition Essay?

A definition essay is a common writing assignment in schools and universities. Put simply, It asks a student to choose a word and define it in-depth. The common dictionary definition is the first thing to state (in your own words), then the lesser-known meanings of the concept, followed by personal anecdotes and opinions further explaining the word.

These assignments usually have word limits of up to 500 words. There are two main difficulties, either finding a definition essay topic to write 500 words about or fitting a lengthy and complex definition into the word limit.

Some words are concrete concepts like clothes, telescope, or computer which may seem simple to write about but are ill-suited topics for a definition essay, while others are abstract like morality, envy, or justice which are much better because they allow for a more nuanced essay.

Writing a successful definition essay means exploring a word more deeply than just stating its definition. The goal is to show a deep understanding of the chosen word or concept. Choosing the right word is crucial to writing a successful definition essay.

The overall structure of a definition paper is the same as any essay. Just remember that each body paragraph should explain the term in a different way.

How to Choose a Definition Essay Topic

Choosing the right topic can make or break your essay. What is a good topic for a definition essay? Concrete concepts may seem easy to write about, but they often defeat the purpose of the assignment by not letting the writer show their critical thinking and writing skills.

An abstract concept with disputed meanings or definition essay topics with multiple meanings will give you enough to write about, but choose something specific rather than broad. Paranoia is a better definition essay topic choice than just the concept of fear in general. Remember, you have to find a concept that you know enough to write about, but also one that you can fully explain in about 500 words or so.

Avoid choosing a noun about a place, person, or thing since they are concrete concepts and might not give you enough to write about. An abstract noun, referring to an idea and adjectives are better choices for a definition essay topic. For example, gaming rather than console.

Choose a word that you already have some information about or feel passionate about. The better you know the concept, the easier it will be to write.

Answering some questions will help you understand and decide on a word.

What is the Origin of the Word?

What are the roots of the word? What do the roots mean? How did the modern meaning of the word come to be? Understanding the roots of a word can give you insight into what the word truly means and be excellent research for your essay.

What is the Context of the Word?

Does the word mean the same thing in different contexts? It’s quite possible that the word means different things in different places, or that there are multiple meanings to the word that you aren’t aware of.

What are the Previous Versions of the Word?

The meanings of words tend to change over time. Sometimes it’s subtle and sometimes it’s drastic. Tracking the previous meaning of the word will give you insight into the evolution of its meaning.

What is the Common Modern Usage of the Word?

The way the word is used today should be the main explanation. By doing the research you make sure that you aren’t working with an outdated concept of the word.

Just because you now know how to choose a topic for your definition essay doesn’t mean that examples won’t be helpful. Here’s a list of 100 good definition essay topics across several categories.

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Definition Essay Topics List by Category

Extended definition essay topics.

An extended definition essay has essentially the same purpose as a definition essay except it asks you to analyze the term even more deeply and gives you the opportunity to incorporate additional personal opinion. You can pinpoint the exact meaning of a term and explain why other meanings may be incorrect. Analyze the word by identifying its antonym (opposite). Delve deeper into the history and roots of the word to back your interpretations etc. The topic of an extended definition needs to be chosen carefully because there needs to be enough complexity to work with. Have a look at these definition essay topic ideas.

The difference between a “Novel” and other pieces of long-form writing.

Why poverty means different things in different countries

Is beauty really in the eye of the beholder?

My experiments with truth

Does faith actually require a leap?

The different forms of love

Is there really something as an “Ideal” form of something?

Why a home is more than a house

A stirring inside: Music

When are humans not acting?

Good Definition Argument Essay Topics

There are always going to be people on multiple sides of an issue. An argument definition essay gives you the chance to convince the reader of your perspective on a controversial or ill-defined concept. It lets you state what you feel and what side you’re on. Take a look at these topics for an argument definition essay.

Conspiracy theories are just as valid as mainstream theories

Deep dish versus New York: What makes a pizza a pizza?

Is emotional infidelity as bad as cheating?

Science fiction is the best literary genre

Sports are the ideal hobby

Is corporate social responsibility done for the wrong reasons?

The death penalty: Justice or arrogance?

Does secular mean all-inclusive or completely non-inclusive?

The difference between a freedom fighter and a rebel is which side wins

Patient care: A doctor who’s nice or a doctor who’s effective?

Definition Essay Topics for College

Definition essays assigned in college are expected to be masterfully written with nuance and subtle understanding of the concept being explored. The following are 10 examples of definition essay topics for college.

Is college the best path to upward social mobility?

Does maturity mean different things at different stages of life?

A personal account of personal independence

The misery of loneliness

How to define success

Bullying doesn’t end in high school, it evolves

Homesick for the very first time

The joy of self-determination

The importance of time management

Changing concepts of the self

Funny Definition Essay Topics

A definition essay can be a fantastic opportunity to showcase your wit! You can choose to play with an amusing concept, or explore an idea from an interesting viewpoint. Get inspired by the following topics.

Puppy love: How a dog feels about its master

Why dork is a worse insult than you think

Wrench: A useful tool? Or to take something away?

Lit: Not about candles anymore

I speak sarcasm

Facebook: Social media for old-timers

I think my dads going through a midlife crisis

Jokes for children and why they aren't funny anymore

Why a Lorry is not a truck

French fries weren’t invented in France

Controversial Definition Essay Topics

Writing about things you’re passionate about is a good decision when writing a definition essay. These controversial topics should ignite your passion, just make sure that you don’t get too carried away!

Vaccines have changed the course of humanity

War, what is it good for?

What is the purpose of incarceration?

Is happiness overrated?

Why being sad doesn’t mean being depressed

Gaming doesn’t rot your brain

Is it still addiction without a physical dependency?

Romantic love is a modern concept

Globalist is actually a compliment

Why nationalism is bad

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Abstract Definition Essay Topics

Abstract topics for definition essay can be simple or incredibly complex. They give you the freedom to give your own interpretation (backed by supporting arguments) on words that have a fluid meaning.

Honor is valued differently by people

What does freedom mean for a refugee?

Schadenfreude: Pleasure at the misfortune of others

Compassion is the most valuable human trait

I’m the best at being humble

The speed of thought

Boredom: A state of mind

Why friendship means more than family

Humour is the best medicine

Spotting a charismatic person

Easy Definition Essay Topics

It’s completely fine If you don’t want to explore a complicated concept or you just want something easy to write about. Give the words dictionary definition, explain the perception of the word, and then add your personal thoughts. Feel free to use some of these good topics for a definition essay.

What makes a house a home?

Why vacations are important

Laughter is the best medicine

What family means to me?

What is democracy?

Popularity and why it’s important

My connection with worship

What exactly is science?

Why is a beach the perfect place to be?

Dancing is freedom

Definition Essay Topics on Love, Poetry, and Music

A topic that you feel emotional about is always a good choice, and nothing inspires passion more than love, poetry, and music.

Love: Pleasure through pain

Why plutonic love is the purest form of love

The fascinating ways love is expressed in different cultures

Poetry: Words that pull at the heart

Why poetry has always been admired

Do rap lyrics count as poetry?

Music: A language that every human speaks

Explaining different tastes in music

Music as the first form of human communication

The connection between dance and music

Definition Essay Topics on History, Politics, and Governance

Writing a definition essay about things you’re interested in or studying cut down on a lot of research time and can be more enjoyable. Or maybe your teacher assigned the general topic, in any case, here are some examples!

If history is written by the winners, do we really truly know what happened?

Are we doomed to repeat the mistakes of the past?

What is personal history?

The perception of politics in different places in the world

The origin of politics in early human civilizations

Politics: One for all or all for one?

Was the feudal system a form of social governance?

The changing role of governance in the 2020s

Governance: Serving the people or feeding one’s ego

The difference between politics and governance

Definition Essay Topics on Economics, Business, IT, and Commerce

If you’re aspiring to join the business world or want an MBA, you’ll have to know the definitions and complexities of many terms. A lot of concepts in economics, business, IT, and commerce are abstract and ill-defined, which makes them perfect for a definition essay. Have a look at some of these topic examples.

Is scarcity an artificial construct?

What does economic freedom really mean?

Economics in the middle ages

Business ethics in a globalized world

Is there a connection between busyness and business?

What makes a person a businessman?

The origins of the word “programming’

What information technology meant in the 1980s

Is free-market trade good for the world?

How monetary supply affects day to day life

This list of definition essay topics examples should set you on the right track!

Things to Keep in Mind

The structure of a definition essay is the same as any other essay. The challenge is in describing a word or concept in a compelling way while showing in-depth understanding. Choosing the right definition essay topics are the most important element of writing a successful definition essay. Here’s a summary of how to make sure you’ve chosen an appropriate topic

An abstract concept is better than a concrete concept
Make the term specific rather than broad
The word should have multiple meanings
A word with disputed meaning is a good choice
Choose a word that has a different meaning based on the context
Select a topic that you already understand well
Choose a term that you feel passionately about
Identify the origins of the word
Look into previous versions of the word
Track the history of the word

If you are looking for assistance with your academic writing, Studyfy is a comprehensive platform that offers a range of services to suit your needs. Whether you require history essay help , need someone to write my philosophy essay , or seek support with term paper writing service or nursing paper writing service , Studyfy can provide you with the necessary assistance. Additionally, if you need help with a definition essay, whether it be finding example topics or receiving help from essay editors and online proofreading services, Studyfy is the one-stop solution for all your academic needs. With the support of Studyfy's essay writing service online , you can produce high-quality papers and showcase your writing skills with confidence.

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100 Intersting Definition Essay Topics

Students all over the world look for definition essay topics at some points of their academic lives. The reason for this is simple: they got an assignment and are now worried about getting it done. There are a number of challenges connected with this task, and for doing everything correctly, you have to have a clear idea of what you’re doing. At first, it is important to figure out what definition essay is . It’s a genre of writing where you present, explain, and elaborate on some idea, concept, or object. If you check any definition essay topics list, you’ll see that it could be anything, from feelings to technical instruments and philosophical concepts.

Why are such tasks important? They give writers a chance to look at a specific subject from a much deeper perspective than they’re used to, and such practice will be useful in their future life. For example, you might have always known what love is, but have you dwelled on all its meanings? Did you know where the word itself came from and how people’s understanding of it differs depending on their circumstances? A paper like this lets you get a definitive answer. Choice of topic is extremely important, so knowing how to pick it is crucial.

Selecting Extended Definition Essay Topics

Deciding on a topic for an essay could look like a piece of cake, but in reality, it’s a complex process. You must select something interesting, educational, and academic in nature. Can you readily think of such themes? Probably not. With tips outlined below, making a choice will be easier!

Choose interesting, not boring. The worst mistake students could do is pick a topic they’ll hate. There are many definition essay ideas, and while some might seem easier than others, it doesn’t mean you should go for them. Be sure you like your topic and want to explore it. This will help you feel inspiration when you’re writing, so the process will not only be interesting to you, but to your readers as well.
Brainstorm. Discussing topics with friends or classmates is always a great idea. For one thing, you might find a sense of direction for your own essay. For another, you could make certain that you pick a unique topic. Very often, professors receive works dedicated to identical issues, and while it’s not always frowned upon, this is still a situation that should be avoided. You won’t want to be accused of plagiarism when you’ve put honest efforts into your essay.
Compare the topic against the word count. Some definition essay prompts are more substantial than others. Defining the concept of family could take 5 or even 10 pages, but something like a word “table” wouldn’t let you move farther than 1 or 2. So, think carefully. If you were told to write 1200 words, select a topic accordingly.
Check availability of sources. Be sure to check instructions or even a template if it’s available: professors often provide them to make their students’ writing easier. Are the number of sources indicated there? Most essays of academic level have to be based on credible support. That includes peer-reviewed articles, scientific books, and official sites with tested information.

100 Best Definition Paper Topics

A way to choose an appropriate topic is to look through different helpful lists. We’ve prepared one specifically for you. If you are in search of inspiration and cannot settle on an idea you’d like, check options below. There are 10 categories with 10 topics in each: think about which appeals to you more and feel free to pick anything that sounds good.

Family Definition Essay Ideas

Love and family often go together, but family life also has numerous problems. Choose any of these definition essay topics for college and explore this concept from the angle you like.

An Image of a Perfect Family: Define How It Looks From Your Perspective
Common American Family: What Does This Image Include?
What Does Being Teenage Parents Mean & How and Why It Happens?
Stepfather: Who Is He & What Role Does He Play?
Being a Mother: Concept, Responsibility, and Purpose
Who Are Abusive Parents and What Criteria Should Be Met to Be Defined as Such?
How Could Traditional Family Values Be Defined?
Families with Multiple Children: What Single Definition Unites Them?
Elaborate on the Concept of Being an Orphan: What Does This Mean?
In What Cases Does the Word “Dysfunctional” Apply to Families?

Love and Friendship Topics for Definition Essays

Almost every person has or had friends. These good definition essay topics will help you research this term as you see fit.

Love as Understood in Families Around the World: How Do Religion and Culture Affect Its Definition?
Romantic Attraction: What Feelings and Experiences Define It?
How I Understand the Idea of Having a Best Friend
Friendship Among Politicians as a Unique Phenomenon
How Would You Define Unhealthy Relationships?
Co-dependency: What Is It, What Causes It, & What This Leads To
Romantic Obsession: What Defines This Concept and How It Emerges?
Understanding Friendship: What Do Different Populations Say About It?
Parental Love and Its Inherency: How Do People Understand It?
Friendship between Men and Women: In What Ways Does It Exist?

Freedom Definition Essay Prompts

Who doesn’t want to be free? With these definition essay topics examples, you could make your point known.

What Freedom Means to Americans vs. the Rest of the World
How Do People Who Work All Their Lives Define Freedom?
Freedom for Prisoners: What Features Does This Idea Entail?
Limitations In School: What Are They?
Correlation between Concepts of Freedom and Personal Satisfaction
How Was Freedom Perceived During WW2?
Breaks at School: Why Have They Been Created?
Slavery in the Modern World, Its History, & Changing Reasons That Cause It
Money in the Context of Freedom
What Is Your Unique Understanding of Being Free?

This category is full of easy definition essay topics because happiness is a very universal concept that most people can understand.

Provide Your Personal View on What Being Happy Means
Define Connection between Dreams and Happiness
How Could Ancient People Perceive Freedom vs. How It is Understood Now
What Are Expectations in Terms of Happiness?
Helping Others to Feel Happy: Define This Phenomenon and Provide Explanation
How Does a Happy American Normally Look Like?
Suffering from Depression: What Does This Issue Mean in Relation to Happiness?
Characteristics of Being Unhappy
Concept of Joy as Understood in Developed & Underdeveloped Countries
Define Happiness Like It Is Seen by Families as Unites

Business Topics for Definition Essay

There are diverse topics for a definition essay in the sphere of business. If you are interested in learning how the world works and what money making entails, you might like some of these.

Define the Word Business by Explaining It & Analyzing Its Background
How Do You Personally Understand the Concept of Business?
Transition From Being Employed to Losing Job: Define & Explain It
Good Salary: What Would It Be in Modern America?
Merging between Companies: Explain What This Process Implies
What Are Start-Ups & How Is Their Success Defined?
Explain What Bankruptcy Is
What Is Definition of Social Packages and Why Do They Exist?
What Does Being Fired Mean?
Explain Maternal Leave and Rules That Surround It

Science and IT Definition Prompts

Science and IT are pretty complicated sectors, but they have lots of fascinating definition essay example topics, especially if this is something you have passion for.

Explain What Windows Is Like You Would to Newbies
What Concepts and Directions Does Math Include?
Cell Phones: Their Old & New Versions and How the Concept Has Evolved Over Time
Artificial Intelligence: What This Phenomenon Means & How It Came to Be
Internet as One of the Most Complex and Widest Concepts in Modern Times
Explain the Job of a Programmer: Which Aspects Are Included Into It?
What Defines Smartphone?
E-Learning: What Caused This and How You Would Define It?
Branch of Physics: Talk About Its Meaning
Define Laptops and Underline How They Differ From Computers

Definition Essay Topics For College Students

College presupposes tasks with a certain level of complexity. These definition argument topics correspond to it.

What Is Paragraph in Accordance with Academic Standards?
How Is Education Understood These Days?
Explain Relevance & Meaning of Part-Time Education
Role of Literature in Our Technology-Based World
What Does Having a Degree Mean Today?
Discuss the Idea Behind Plagiarism: Concept, Dangers, Reasons, & Impacts
Define Heteronormativity and Share Information about Its Origins
Brand Loyalty: What Could People Derive From This Concept?
Reveal the Core & Reasons of Fascism
Does Nobility Still Exist & How Could It Be Explained?

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Easy Definition Essays Topics

Sometimes students don’t want to spend too much time on their work. In such instances, easy and funny definition essay topics apply.

Poverty: How Do People From Different Social Classes Perceive It?
Define Home Along with Everything This Concept Entails
What Is Art and How Does Modern Concept Differ From the Past?
How Would You Define Personal & Global Success?
What Inspired Fanfiction & Who Are People Interested in Writing in This Genre?
Explain the Concept Behind Your Favorite TV Show
Most Perfect Teacher in the World: How Should They Look Like?
How Do Teenagers Perceive Popularity and What Meaning This Understanding Holds for Them?
Define Your Favorite Piece of Music
How Should Social Media Be Defined?

Creative Ideas

Some people are bursting with desire to do things differently. If you’d like creative definition essay topics, check these out.

What Does a Self-Publishing Process Entail & What Meaning Does It Have?
Talk About Polygamous People & What This Implies
What Is Wedding & Which Attributes Represent It?
All Types of Bed-Sharing: Discuss Them with Examples
Ghosts: What Are They & When Did People Start Talking About Them?
Good Sleep: How Many Hours Are needed & What Dreams Are Preferable
What Are Online Trolls?
Explain Laptop Freezing, Its Causes, & Reactions This Problem Evokes
Rainbow Flag: Where Did It Come From & What Meaning Does It Hold?
“Supernatural” Concept: Explain This Idea

Extended Definition Essays Ideas

Some definitions could be extended to cover more complex or general ideas. These definition paragraph topics will show you how it could be done.

Being Miserable and Committing Crimes: Define Link Between These Concepts
Pick Any Three Related Concepts and Elaborate On Them
Life in Abusive Households & Becoming Abusive: What Do They Mean?
What Is Laziness & Ways of Its Expression
Define Having a Selfish Nature
Weak Teachers: How Would You Explain This Occurrence?
What Is the Best Definition for Coldness as Personal Trait?
Human Sexuality and All Its Sides
Phobias: Explain Concept & Define Its Elements
How Can Segregation Be Understood?

Pick Great Definition Speech Topics and Learn Beauty of Writing

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Want to write a winning essay but lack experience? Browse our free essay samples

Definition Essay - Writing Guide, Examples and Tips

14 min read

Published on: Oct 9, 2020

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

What is a Definition Essay?

Just as the name suggests, a definition essay defines and explains a term or a concept. Unlike a narrative essay, the purpose of writing this essay is only to inform the readers.

Writing this essay type can be deceivingly tricky. Some terms, concepts, and objects have concrete definitions when explained. In contrast others are solely based on the writerâs understanding and point of view.

A definition essay requires a writer to use different approaches when discussing a term. These approaches are the following:

Denotation - It is when you provide a literal or academic definition of the term.
Connotation - It is when the writer provides an implied meaning or definition of the term.
Enumeration - For this approach, a list is employed to define a term or a concept.
Analogy - It is a technique in which something is defined by implementing a comparison.
Negation - It is when you define a term by stating what it is not.

A single or combination of approaches can be used in the essay.

Definition Essay Types

There are several types of definition essays that you may be asked to write, depending on the purpose and scope of the assignment.

In this section, we will discuss some of the most common types of definition essays.

Descriptive Definition Essay

This type of essay provides a detailed description of a term or concept, emphasizing its key features and characteristics.

The goal of a descriptive definition essay is to help readers understand the term or concept in a more profound way.

Stipulative Definition Essay

In a stipulative definition essay, the writer provides a unique definition of a term or concept. This type of essay is often used in academic settings to define a term in a particular field of study.

The goal of a stipulative definition essay is to provide a precise and clear definition that is specific to the context of the essay.

Analytical Definition Essay

This compare and contrast essay type involves analyzing a term or concept in-depth. Breaking it down into its component parts, and examining how they relate to each other.

The goal of an analytical definition essay is to provide a more nuanced and detailed understanding of the term or concept being discussed.

Persuasive Definition Essay

A persuasive definition essay is an argumentative essay that aims to persuade readers to accept a particular definition of a term or concept.

The writer presents their argument for the definition and uses evidence and examples to support their position.

Explanatory Definition Essay

An explanatory definition essay is a type of expository essay . It aims to explain a complex term or concept in a way that is easy to understand for the reader.

The writer breaks down the term or concept into simpler parts and provides examples and analogies to help readers understand it better.

Extended Definition Essay

An extended definition essay goes beyond the definition of a word or concept and provides a more in-depth analysis and explanation.

The goal of an extended definition essay is to provide a comprehensive understanding of a term, concept, or idea. This includes its history, origins, and cultural significance.

How to Write a Definition Essay?

Writing a definition essay is simple if you know the correct procedure. This essay, like all the other formal pieces of documents, requires substantial planning and effective execution.

The following are the steps involved in writing a definition essay effectively:

Instead of choosing a term that has a concrete definition available, choose a word that is complicated . Complex expressions have abstract concepts that require a writer to explore deeper. Moreover, make sure that different people perceive the term selected differently.

Once you have a word to draft your definition essay for, read the dictionary. These academic definitions are important as you can use them to compare your understanding with the official concept.

Drafting a definition essay is about stating the dictionary meaning and your explanation of the concept. So the writer needs to have some information about the term.

In addition to this, when exploring the term, make sure to check the termâs origin. The history of the word can make you discuss it in a better way.

Coming up with an exciting title for your essay is important. The essay topic will be the first thing that your readers will witness, so it should be catchy.

Creatively draft an essay topic that reflects meaning. In addition to this, the usage of the term in the title should be correctly done. The readers should get an idea of what the essay is about and what to expect from the document.

Now that you have a topic in hand, it is time to gather some relevant information. A definition essay is more than a mere explanation of the term. It represents the writerâs perception of the chosen term and the topic.

So having only personal opinions will not be enough to defend your point. Deeply research and gather information by consulting credible sources.

The gathered information needs to be organized to be understandable. The raw data needs to be arranged to give a structure to the content.

Here's a generic outline for a definition essay:

Provide an that grabs the reader's attention and introduces the term or concept you will be defining.

of why this term or concept is important and relevant.
that clearly defines the term or concept and previews the main points of the essay.

, , or that will help the reader better understand the term or concept.
to clarify the scope of your definition.

or of the term or concept you are defining in detail.
to illustrate your points.

by differentiating your term or concept from similar terms or concepts.
to illustrate the differences.

of the term or concept.
between the types, using examples and anecdotes to illustrate your points.

, or to support your points.

VII. Conclusion

you have defined.
that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Are you searching for an in-depth guide on crafting a well-structured definition essay?Check out this definition essay outline blog!

6. Write the First Draft

Drafting each section correctly is a daunting task. Understanding what or what not to include in these sections requires a writer to choose wisely.

The start of your essay matters a lot. If it is on point and attractive, the readers will want to read the text. As the first part of the essay is the introduction , it is considered the first impression of your essay.

To write your definition essay introduction effectively, include the following information:

Start your essay with a catchy hook statement that is related to the topic and the term chosen.
State the generally known definition of the term. If the word chosen has multiple interpretations, select the most common one.
Provide background information precisely. Determine the origin of the term and other relevant information.
Shed light on the other unconventional concepts and definitions related to the term.
Decide on the side or stance you want to pick in your essay and develop a thesis statement .

After briefly introducing the topic, fully explain the concept in the body section . Provide all the details and evidence that will support the thesis statement. To draft this section professionally, add the following information:

A detailed explanation of the history of the term.
Analysis of the dictionary meaning and usage of the term.
A comparison and reflection of personal understanding and the researched data on the concept.

Once all the details are shared, give closure to your discussion. The last paragraph of the definition essay is the conclusion . The writer provides insight into the topic as a conclusion.

The concluding paragraphs include the following material:

Summary of the important points.
Restated thesis statement.
A final verdict on the topic.

7. Proofread and Edit

Although the writing process ends with the concluding paragraph, there is an additional step. It is important to proofread the essay once you are done writing. Proofread and revise your document a couple of times to make sure everything is perfect.

Before submitting your assignment, make edits, and fix all mistakes and errors.

If you want to learn more about how to write a definition essay, here is a video guide for you!

Definition Essay Structure

The structure of a definition essay is similar to that of any other academic essay. It should consist of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

However, the focus of a definition essay is on defining and explaining a particular term or concept.

In this section, we will discuss the structure of a definition essay in detail.

Introduction

Get the idea of writing an introduction for a definition essay with this example:

"Have you ever wondered what it truly means to be a hero?"
Heroes have been celebrated in literature, mythology, and pop culture throughout history.
"In this essay, we will define the term hero, explore the key features that define heroism, and examine real-life examples of heroism in action."

Body Paragraphs

Here is an example of how to craft your definition essay body paragraph:

Heroes are individuals who demonstrate courage, selflessness, and a commitment to helping others. They often risk their own safety to protect others or achieve a noble goal.
Heroes are often confused with protagonists or role models, but they differ in that heroism involves action and sacrifice.
This could include stories of firefighters rescuing people from burning buildings, soldiers risking their lives in battle, or ordinary citizens performing acts of bravery during natural disasters.

Types of the Term/Concept

If applicable, the writer may want to include a section that discusses the different types or categories of the term or concept being defined.

This section should explain the similarities and differences between the types, using examples and anecdotes to illustrate the points.

This section could explore the different categories of heroes, such as those who are recognized for their bravery in the face of danger, those who inspire others through their deeds, or those who make a difference in their communities through volunteering.

Examples of the Term/Concept in Action

The writer should also include real-life examples of the term or concept being defined in action.

This will help the reader better understand the term or concept in context and how it is used in everyday life.

This could include stories of individuals who risked their lives to save others, such as firefighters who rushed into the Twin Towers on 9/11 or civilians who pulled people from a burning car.
This could include stories of individuals who performed small acts of kindness, such as a stranger who paid for someone's groceries or a teacher who went above and beyond to help a struggling student.

Conclusion

This example will help you writing a conclusion fo you essay:

Heroes are defined by their courage, selflessness, and commitment to helping others. There are many different types of heroes, but they all share these key features.
Heroism is an important concept because it inspires us to be better people and reminds us of the importance of selflessness and compassion.
"In a world where it's easy to feel cynical and disillusioned, heroes remind us that there is still goodness and bravery in the world."

Definition Essay Examples

It is important to go through some examples and samples before writing an essay. This is to understand the writing process and structure of the assigned task well.

Following are some examples of definition essays to give our students a better idea of the concept.

Understanding the Definition Essay

Definition Essay Example

Definition Essay About Friendship

Definition Essay About Love

Family Definition Essay

Success Definition Essay

Beauty Definition Essay

Definition Essay Topics

Selecting the right topic is challenging for other essay types. However, picking a suitable theme for a definition essay is equally tricky yet important. Pick an interesting subject to ensure maximum readership.

If you are facing writerâs block, here is a list of some great definition essay topics for your help. Choose from the list below and draft a compelling essay.

Authenticity
Sustainability
Mindfulness

Here are some more extended definition essay topics:

Social media addiction
Ethical implications of gene editing
Personalized learning in the digital age
Ecosystem services
Cultural assimilation versus cultural preservation
Sustainable fashion
Gender equality in the workplace
Financial literacy and its impact on personal finance
Ethical considerations in artificial intelligence
Welfare state and social safety nets

Need more topics? Check out this definition essay topics blog!

Definition Essay Writing Tips

Knowing the correct writing procedure is not enough if you are not aware of the essayâs small technicalities. To help students write a definition essay effortlessly, expert writers of CollegeEssay.org have gathered some simple tips.

These easy tips will make your assignment writing phase easy.

Choose an exciting yet informative topic for your essay.
When selecting the word, concept, or term for your essay, make sure you have the knowledge.
When consulting a dictionary for the definition, provide proper referencing as there are many choices available.
To make the essay informative and credible, always provide the origin and history of the term.
Highlight different meanings and interpretations of the term.
Discuss the transitions and evolution in the meaning of the term in any.
Provide your perspective and point of view on the chosen term.

Following these tips will guarantee you better grades in your academics.

By following the step-by-step approach explained in this guide, you will acquire the skills to craft an outstanding essay.

Struggling with the thought, " write my college essay for m e"? Look no further.

Our dedicated definition essay writing service is here to craft the perfect essay that meets your academic needs.

For an extra edge, explore our AI essay writer , a tool designed to refine your essays to perfection.

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Definitional Argument Essay

For a definitional essay, you need to write an argument that a borderline or contested case fits (or does not fit) within a particular category by classifying that particular case and defining the category.

Definitional arguments require a definition of key terms:

Example: Joe is too bossy.

Define “bossy” and provide examples of his bossy attitude (poor listening skills, shouting at people, making decisions without asking committee—these are what define “bossy” in your argument.

Example : Low-carb diets are dangerous.

Define what constitutes “low-carb” and define what you mean by “dangerous.” Cite studies showing harmful effects, how substances affect the body, etc.

Criteria-Match Structure:

The criteria section of your argument explains and illustrates your criteria.

The match section of your argument persuades the reader that your example meets those criteria.

Example: Although the Hercules Shoe Company is nonpolluting and provides a socially useful product, [CLAIM] it is not a socially responsible company [BECAUSE CLAUSE] because it treats its workers unjustly.

Criteria Part: What points must be met for a company to be deemed “socially responsible”?

(1) Research how others have defined your term (dictionaries, judicial opinions, expert testimony, etc.
(2) Use your own critical thinking to make your own extended definition.

Match Part : In what ways does the shoe company meet those points?

(1) Supply examples of how this and other situations meet your criteria.
(2) Give other evidence about how your example meets your criteria.

For your Definitional Argument Essay :

introduce the issue and state the claim
define key terms
present your first criterion and argument that your case meets your definition
present your second criterion and argument that your case meets your definition
present your third criterion and argument that your case meets your definition (if necessary)
anticipate and respond to possible objections/arguments
conclude with return to the “big picture,” what is at stake, why your argument is important, etc.

Definitional Argument Essay Proposal

What vague or arguable term, phrase, or situation are you defining?
What scenario are you going to use to introduce your claim?
What is your first (1) criterion and (2) argument that your case meets your definition?
What is your second (1) criterion and (2) argument that your case meets your definition?
What is your third (1) criterion and (2) argument that your case meets your definition?
What are your (1) anticipated objections/arguments and (2) responses to them?
How will you conclude with return to the “big picture,” what is at stake, why your argument is important, etc?
Definition Argument. Provided by : Martin's College English. Located at : http://www.oercommons.org/courses/definitional-argument-essay/view# . License : CC BY-SA: Attribution-ShareAlike
Table of Contents

Instructor Resources (Access Requires Login)

Overview of Instructor Resources

An Overview of the Writing Process

Introduction to the Writing Process
Introduction to Writing
Your Role as a Learner
What is an Essay?
Reading to Write
Defining the Writing Process
Videos: Prewriting Techniques
Thesis Statements
Organizing an Essay
Creating Paragraphs
Conclusions
Editing and Proofreading
Matters of Grammar, Mechanics, and Style
Peer Review Checklist
Comparative Chart of Writing Strategies

Using Sources

Quoting, Paraphrasing, and Avoiding Plagiarism
Formatting the Works Cited Page (MLA)
Citing Paraphrases and Summaries (APA)
APA Citation Style, 6th edition: General Style Guidelines

Definition Essay

How to Write a Definition Essay
Critical Thinking
Video: Thesis Explained
Effective Thesis Statements
Student Sample: Definition Essay

Narrative Essay

Introduction to Narrative Essay
Student Sample: Narrative Essay
"Shooting an Elephant" by George Orwell
"Sixty-nine Cents" by Gary Shteyngart
Video: The Danger of a Single Story
How to Write an Annotation
How to Write a Summary
Writing for Success: Narration

Illustration/Example Essay

Introduction to Illustration/Example Essay
"She's Your Basic L.O.L. in N.A.D" by Perri Klass
"April & Paris" by David Sedaris
Writing for Success: Illustration/Example
Student Sample: Illustration/Example Essay

Compare/Contrast Essay

Introduction to Compare/Contrast Essay
"Disability" by Nancy Mairs
"Friending, Ancient or Otherwise" by Alex Wright
"A South African Storm" by Allison Howard
Writing for Success: Compare/Contrast
Student Sample: Compare/Contrast Essay

Cause-and-Effect Essay

Introduction to Cause-and-Effect Essay
"Cultural Baggage" by Barbara Ehrenreich
"Women in Science" by K.C. Cole
Writing for Success: Cause and Effect
Student Sample: Cause-and-Effect Essay

Argument Essay

Introduction to Argument Essay
Rogerian Argument
"The Case Against Torture," by Alisa Soloman
"The Case for Torture" by Michael Levin
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457 Definition Essay Topics and Writing Tips

A definition explains the meaning of a term or a concept. In a dictionary, you’ll find a definition in a single sentence. A definition paper, however, encompasses several paragraphs. Such an essay, amongst other things, can include personal experience and examples.

The picture explains what a definition essay is.

To write a successful definition paper, you need to provide a unique view of your chosen subject. In this article by Custom-Writing.org , we have compiled a list of the best definition essay ideas for high school and college students. We will also:

explain how to choose a topic;
give some writing tips;
provide a definition essay sample.   
🔝 Top 10 Topics
⭐ How to Choose a Topic
💭 Top 7 Prompts
👍 70 Easy Definition Topics
🏫 High School Topics
🎓 Definition Topics for College

🧐 Definition Argument Topics

🤯 Controversial Definition Topics
🎈 Funny Definition Topics
📚 Other Topics
✅ Essay Writing Tips
📑 Definition Essay Example

🔍 References

🔝 top 10 definition essay topics.

Can love be defined? 
Is empathy a weakness? 
Is optimism a strength? 
How do you define success? 
What is considered racism? 
What does it mean to be happy? 
What is independence for you? 
When does one become an adult? 
What does it take to be an ambitious person? 
How to know if someone is a perfectionist?

⭐ Definition Essay Topics: How to Choose

When it comes to papers explaining a concept, essay topics are notoriously hard to choose. How do you find a good idea to write about? Well, here are a few steps that you might want to consider while making the decision:

Choose a word with a complex meaning. For instance, notions such as “love” or “home” are hard to define because everyone has their own understanding of them.
Make sure the meaning of the word is arguable. Unlike “love” and “home,” words such as “coffee” or “hose” have a precise meaning you can’t really argue about.
Choose the word you are familiar with. You can educate yourself on the meaning of certain words before writing an essay, but it’s still different from incorporating it into your daily life.

So, let’s get started with our prompts and topics for a definition essay!

💭 Top 7 Definition Essay Prompts

Definition of love essay prompt.

Practically all people have felt love at some point in their life. However, what is love, exactly? How do you define it? Well, love is a term that encompasses various meanings and has different implications:

You can write about different characteristics of love. For instance, it can be all-consuming and passionate or tender and gentle.
There are various types of love, such as romantic and platonic, and you can explore them in your essay.
You may also dive into how love shouldn’t necessarily be related to another human being. One can also love certain activities or objects. 
Another widely discussed topic is the love language. You can write about how different people perceive and express their love.

Family Definition Essay Prompt

Family is another term that has a vast spectrum of meanings. Here are some ideas for your essay:

Talk about the difference between an immediate and a chosen family. For instance, you may think of family while referring to your parents or siblings. For others, a family can also be a group of people who love and care for one another. It doesn’t matter if they are related by blood or not.
You can talk about the traditional understanding of a family vs. the modern one.

Definition of a Hero Essay Prompt

People’s ideas of heroes and heroic qualities change throughout time. Consider discussing the following in your essay:

Look into the mythological roots of a hero and how Ancient Greeks described someone with heroic traits.
Talk about the modern understanding of a hero.
Is having superpowers a pre-requirement to being a hero, or can anyone spiritually strong and brave be called a hero?

Racism Definition Essay Prompt

Racism is one of the most permanent issues in society. It happens when people divide themselves into exclusive, separate groups according to their race and skin color. In your paper, you may discuss:

Talk about how the word “racism” when it comes to law and the legal system.
You can talk about the etymology of the word racism and how it came to be.
Discuss how racism is understood in philosophy, literature, and psychology.
Mention the differences between the implications the term “racism” has when it comes to social life and the law.

Home Definition Essay Prompt

If you look up the word “home” in a dictionary, you’ll see definitions like “a place where a person lives” or “a place where one originally comes from.” However, each person has a different understanding of what it actually means. Here are a few things that you can discuss in your essay:

You can write about your interpretation of the famous saying, “There’s no place like home.” 
Talk about the differences between “home” and “house.”
Explore how the word “home” is understood in philosophy, literature, and psychology.

Definition Essay: American Dream Prompt

American Dream is a concept that’s almost synonymous with the word America itself. This term and its meaning have been discussed since its first appearance in Epic of America in 1931. You can explore the following topics in your paper:

Discuss how the notion of the American Dream has changed and evolved throughout time.
Write about the concept of “4 freedoms for all” and how it has affected people’s perception of the American Dream.
You may also want to mention globalization and how it has affected people’s interpretation of the American Dream.

Kindness Definition Essay Prompt

The concept of what it means to be kind is debated in religion, philosophy, and psychology. Writing about this topic will allow you to contemplate and look at it from different perspectives. Here are some exciting ideas to consider:

Discuss the phenomenon of kindness and how it’s reflected in philosophy, religion, and literature.
Talk about the concept of kindness and its origin. You can see how people’s understanding of being kind has evolved through time. 
Interpret the phrase “The road to hell is paved with good intentions.” You can discuss how this saying relates to people’s perception of kindness.
Talk about altruism and to what extent this principle reflects the meaning people attach to the word “kindness.”

👍 70 Best Definition Essay Topics: Easy & Exciting

What is anarchism?
What does “ commitment ” mean?
The ancient and modern concept of a healthy person.
Why does “break a leg” mean “good luck”?
How does the definition of mimesis change through time?
Define postmodern theatre and its elements.
What is the difference between Platonic and Aristotelian understandings of mimesis?
What is euthanasia, and how is it different from assisted suicide?
What is industrialization, and how does it affect our society ?
Define individualism from a psychological and sociological perspective.
How would you define grief?
What is the poetry of mourning ?
The concept of independence .
What does it mean “to narrate” in literature ?
Define liberalism as a political ideology.
How does the concept of family vary depending on the culture?
Egoism in psychology.
The meaning behind the phrase “ peace of mind.”
Interpreting Marxism.
What is metaphysics about?
How would you define modernism in theatre?
Define Nietzsche’s ideas of nihilism.
Define the abolitionist movement in Western Europe and the Americas.
The origin of the word “science.”
What is an eating disorder?
What is Ziggurat, and how is it important to the ancient Mesopotamian culture ?
What is anorexia?
The meaning of depression from a medical perspective.
What does bulking mean in sports?
People’s perception of sports as a hobby and as a career.
What does it mean to “do business”?
What is a kinetic sculpture?
Papier-mâché and its place in sculpting.
The concept of death and how it affects people’s perception of life .
What is the origin and meaning of the word arena?
Religion as a belief and an institutionalized notion.
Define pacifism and what it means to be a pacifist.
How would you define artistic works through philosophy?
What is cultural pluralism ?
What does it mean to be responsible ?
What is “common sense?”
Define the modern phenomenon of cyberbullying.
Ego and egoism: how are the two connected?
How would you define the word “rosary”?
Altruism and kindness: the definitions.
People’s understanding of success in the 21st century .
What is the Indian reservation, and what historical importance does it have?
Trauma in psychology.
What is the equality of rights?
The image of a contemporary vs. ancient hero.
What is democracy?
What is an argument in writing?
What does it means to lose one’s identity?
What is the meaning of identity in the cultural context?
The concept of time in history.
The perspective on time: linear and circular.
What does it mean to be confident ?
People’s perception of gender and the impact it has on society.
Define gothic literature and talk about its key features.
What does the word “taboo” means?
Define grotesque and its importance in art.
What is maturity in psychology?
A butterfly effect in chaos theory.
The meaning of ethics in philosophy .
What does it mean to “fancy someone”?
The understanding of science in ancient Greece and philosophy .
People’s interpretation of art and beauty in the Middle Ages.
What can be called poetry ?
What does it mean to “make a long story short”?
How people’s perception of war has been changing throughout history.

🏫 Definition Essay Topics for High School

What is global warming?
How would you define progress?
Define imperialism.
What is polynomial in mathematics?
How are the ideas of imperialism reflected in Orwell’s essay Shooting an Elephant ?
The meaning of the hippie movement in the 60s and 70s.
How would you interpret the saying “a friend in need is a friend in deed?”
What is the cultural meaning of the tea ceremony in Japan ?
Define teamwork in business.
What does it mean to be a good student?
What is mass culture as opposed to popular culture?
The meaning of the phrase “ natural beauty .”
What does it mean to be a good role model ?
What is self-confidence ?
Intellectual and intelligent: is there any difference?
What is popular culture ?
Social media and its influence on teenagers’ communication skills .
Define parenthood .
What is alliteration in poetry?
What does it mean to be a reliable person?
What is classical music?
How would you define happiness ?
Does social media increase people’s anxiety levels?
Why do smartphones decrease our attention span?
What can be considered an artwork?
Globalization in contemporary art .
The meaning and the usage of the term lithography.
Activism as an art form.
Explain the term decalcomania.
What does the expression “bite the bullet” mean?
What is biochemistry, and how is it used in nursing?
Astrophysics vs. astrochemistry: definition.
What is sarcasm?
How would you define antisemitism?
What does it mean to have a bad sense of humor?
What does it mean “ to oppress ?”
Define careerism .
What is housing segregation?
The concept of collectivism in communism.
The meaning of consumerism in the modern world.
What does it mean to be cynical?
Meaning of determinism in philosophy.
Define fascism during the Second World War.
What are the fundamental principles of fatalism?
The philosophy of finalism.
What is Hinduism?
The critical points of liberal discourse.
What does it mean “to exploit”?
What can be called “ realistic “?
What does it mean to be creative?

Feel free to explore our list of high school essay topics for more ideas.

🎓 Definition Essay Topics for College Students

Harlem Renaissance and Jazz Music.
Define Jazz culture in the ’90s America.
What is capitalism?
The meaning of calisthenics.
Define a nuclear family.
What is transcendentalism ?
Define surrealism in painting.
The relation between puritanism and capitalism.
What does it mean to have freedom of choice?
Capitalism vs. Communism : which one is more human-oriented? 
Does Jimi Hendrix’s performance of Star Spangled Banner in 1969 correspond with the definition of activism?
The philosophy of absurdism in Albert Camus’s works.
Impressionism vs. Expressionism: meanings .
How would you define a sense of responsibility ?
What is an operating system (Windows, Mac, etc.) ?
What does “a start-up” mean?
What is a farewell ?
Beauty standards in the 20 th century and medieval Europe.
Define the omniscient narrator in a novel .
How is French materialism different from American materialism?
Define the 3 rd wave of feminism .
Admiration and respect : differences in defining.
What is artificial intelligence?
Define the concept of memory in history and science. 
What is a genetic code?
Immunology and its impact on modern medicine.
What is gene therapy ?
What are prions?
How does drama translation differ from prose translation?
What is an extreme long shot, and how is it used in movies?
According to Structuralism, what are “Langue” and “Parole”? 
In your opinion, what is the main difference between Structuralism and Poststructuralism? 
Define the poetry of the Beat Generation.
The importance of Thought and Language in George Orwell’s dystopian novel 1984 .
What is a loophole?
Define multiculturalism and its effect on society.
What is Brexit ? 
What is social identity?
How does social media affect people’s idea of attractiveness?
Male vs. female gaze: how it is used in cinema.
What makes something “addictive”?
Define the Silent Movie Era as opposed to sound films .
The meaning of the American Dream as depicted in road movies.
What is so unique about film noir ?
The meaning of mental health portrayed in movies and how it affects people’s perception of it.
What is online education ?
Hip-hop culture and b-boying: definition and historical roots.
Define modern poetry .
What is blues, and how is it different from jazz?
Define imagism in poetry.

Want more essay ideas? Check out our list of essay ideas for college students !

Science is not always precise.
Sports should be encouraged more.
Should uniform in school be obligatory?
What are the effects of global warming?
Pros and cons of the death penalty.
Do students benefit from assignments?
Ways to deal with drug abuse .
Why should childbirth be encouraged?
Natural food is more beneficial for health than manufactured products.
Children should be taught about sex from an early age.
Education has no actual value in the modern world.
Does the legalization of drugs have a positive or negative effect on society ?
Why is diet more effective than doing sports for losing weight?
Working out is beneficial for mental health. 
The Keto diet doesn’t work for everyone.
Weightlifting helps with weight loss.
Natural protein is better than protein supplements.
Does the level of emotional affect depend on gender?
The reasons why we should ban factory farming.
Animal testing is unethical .
Farm animals should not be treated with antibiotics.
Should vaccination be mandatory ?
Is there a way to store nuclear waste safely?
Plastic surgery reinforces beauty standards.
Is vaping less harmful than smoking?
Animal testing is a necessary evil.
The benefits of animal-assisted therapy .
Advertising can be considered an art form.
Animal euthanasia should be illegal.
There should be no mandatory military service.
Education should be free .
Is a vegan diet beneficial for your health?
Should parents limit screen time for their children ? 
Unpaid internships should be illegal.
Should teachers be able to express their political views freely?
Schools should start later.
Should the grading system be abolished?
Art should not be censored.
Video games can be good for children’s development.
It is essential to encourage kids to do sports.
Live-action movies are better than animated ones.
GMOs are not safe for consumption and should be banned.
Should children own personal mobile phones ?
Reading helps to develop creativity.
Group training and mental help services are essential for large organizations.
Does the use of outsourcing take away legal responsibilities?
Technology affects the way businesses deal with their failures.
Is it morally acceptable to advertise to minors?

When it comes to the definition argument essay, you may need to do a little more research and support your ideas with some strong arguments. First, you need to introduce the issue, state the claim and define the key term. Then you can present your arguments to prove your point and convince the reader. For more ideas, check out our list of argumentative topics .

🤯 Controversial Definition Essay Topics

What are the benefits of sex education in school ?
What is a polyamorous relationship?
The meaning of death penalties.
What can be considered a mental disorder?
Different perceptions of age in various cultures.
What is abortion?
People’s changing attitude towards childbirth.
Define assisted suicide.
What is taurobolium in religious cults?
The meaning and benefits of gun control.
Free journalism doesn’t exist anymore: is it true?
Define violence in video games.
What is internet addiction ?
The meaning of love in popular culture.
How polygamy is understood in modern society.
What is cannibalism?
The usage of the n-word: who has the right to say it?
The perception of underage marriages in different cultures.
What is artificial insemination?
What are the negative aspects of the feminist movement?
What is considered explicit content?
How would you define consciousness?
What is home-schooling?
Define prostitution in ancient Greece.
What is a prison in the cultural context?
What can be called “ censorship “?
Define “a man” and “a woman.”
Define climate change and its impact on social movements.
What is illegal immigration, and what are its leading causes ?
What is a “prescription drug”?
Vaping vs. smoking : definition.
What is an ethical zoo ?
Explain the meaning of the word “crime.”
What does the word “gender” means?
Define the word “orphan.”
Define the LGBTQ+ rights movement.
What does “gender-neutral” mean?
The meaning and benefits of conventional medicine.
Cancel culture: what is it ?
What is anorexia in a medical context?
The most common side effects of war.

Some issues cause controversy due to people’s divided opinions and feelings about them. You may want to pay special attention to those topics and be more careful while discussing them. For more ideas, check out our list of controversial issues .

🎈 Funny Definition Essay Topics

What does it mean to be an expert in gaming?
What are the implications behind the phrase “I got a nice job”?
What does “chilling” mean?
Describe the various meanings of the verb “to quit” and its usage.
Define the worst tattoo ever.
What kind of song can be called a love ballad ?
What does a “dirty joke” mean?
Define stand-up comedy .
How would you interpret the phrase “couch potato”?
Define humor in Family Guy .
What does “drama queen” mean?
Stereotypes and how they are used in movies and books.
What does it mean to “skip classes”?
What does “pulling an all-nighter” mean?
What are good drinking habits?
Reasons why silly movies make you feel good about yourself.
What does “friendship zone” mean?
In your opinion, what qualities does one need to have to be described as a player?
What does it mean to “have a crush”?
What does “to break up” mean?
Define femininity and its attributes.
What does the word “frenemies” mean?
What dishes can be called Mediterranean?
What does it mean to have a “cat nap”?
What is a horoscope, and why are people so obsessed with it?
How do you understand the expression “fake person”?
What does it mean to be attractive ?
What is a Quentin Tarantino movie?
What does it mean to be a narcissist ?
Where does the phrase “sweet tooth” comes from?
Define gen Z .
How would you define fashion ?
What does the phrase “Netflix and chill” mean?
What does it mean “ to cheat ” on someone?
Who are “boomers”?
What is WWE , and what social impact does it have on young people?
Define cringe comedy and what makes it special.
What does the internet slang word “simp” mean?
What is a good selfie ?
The meaning behind the “blondes are stupid” stereotype.
What does it mean to be a “ gym rat”?
What does it mean “to split the check”?
What is binge-watching?
What does it mean to be obsessed ?
What is lactose intolerance?
Define a trend and its social effect.

Need even more ideas? Find them in our funny topics list !

📚 Other Definition Essay Topics

Extended Definition Essay Topics

The meaning of sensitivity .
What makes a good husband ? 
How do you define a mature person? 
What does it mean to be a good person ? 
What makes someone trustworthy? 
What does it mean to be conservative ? 
How to know if someone is being sexist. 
What does it take to be charismatic? 
How do you define a happy marriage? 
What makes someone a hero ?
What is happiness for you?
Explain what it means to be a charismatic leader.
What is humor ?
How can we define laziness ?

Definitions can be extended, formal, or informal.

Describe the characteristics of true leadership.
Determine what can be called common sense.
What constitutes progress ?
What does it mean to be proud?
How can we define loyalty ?
Point out the implications of the word “pessimism.”
How do people show courage?
What does it mean to respect yourself?

Extended definition essays need enough room for elaborate explanation and illustration. Unlike ordinary definition papers, they are more general. Besides, they are open to discussion, counterarguments, and doubts. Because of this, abstract concepts are an excellent starting point for a paper.

Society Definition Essay Topics

What makes a good person ?
Explain how you understand equality.
How can you define globalization?
What does the term “white privilege” signify?
What does “family” mean?
Determine the meaning of the word “respect” in today’s society.
What does it mean to become an adult ?
What is feminism ?
When can a system be called just?
Explain what patriarchy is.
When is a child well-behaved?
What do the words “masculinity” and “femininity” mean to you?
What does the concept of the “glass ceiling” signify?
Determine how peer pressure manifests itself.
How can you define the term “mansplaining”?

Definition essays on society analyze social structures and human interaction. An individual’s perspective on society stems from various influences. It includes their cultural background, age, and gender. Choose one of the following prompts, and ask your relatives or friends what they think about it. You can find some additional helpful ideas in our sociology topics list .

History Definition Essay Topics

What can we call a revolution?
Define a hippie movement.
Explain who the Suffragettes were.
What was the Land of Punt?
What is colonization?
What does independence mean for a country?
What makes something “historic”?
Explain the “Lebensreform” movement of the 1920s.
Who were the Untouchables?
Which events designate the end of the Medieval Period?
Define the White movement during the Russian revolution.
What was the Arab Spring?
Explain who Joan of Arc was.
What does the term “Antebellum South” signify?
What was the Pastry War?

Learning from history is integral to progress. If we understand our past failures, we can shape a better future. Writing about history grants exciting insights into various issues. There are even more essay ideas in our history topics list .

Politics Definition Essay Topics

What does “ anarchism ” mean?
How does the system of checks and balances work?
Explain what constitutes liberal ideology.
How does democracy work?
How can you define monarchy?
Determine when a regime can be called totalitarian.
Define the meaning of the word “politics.”
What is McCarthyism?
What does it take to be a political party?
What are the implications of the word “democracy”?
Describe a society that can be called communist.
What defines a capitalistic system?

How do electoral systems work?
How can you define the term “witch hunt”?
What is Gerrymandering?

Definition essays on politics explore mechanisms of governance. There are only four major types of political systems, but there are infinite ways to implement them. Additionally, you can consult our list of compelling political topics to look into .

Mass Media Definition Essay Topics

The origin of the word “media.”
What does the term “ mainstream ” entail?
What is the purpose of broadcasting?
Define the different types of mass media .
What is cross-media publishing?
Define the term “publicity.”
What makes a good cover story?
Explain what television is.
Describe different types of news articles.
Define the word “communication.”
How does propaganda work?
What is gonzo journalism?
Come up with the definition of the word “sensationalism.”
What does “gatekeeping” mean?
How can you explain what “radio” is?

Mass media is various means of communication aiming to reach as much of the public as possible. Nowadays, it is nearly inescapable, which makes it an interesting subject to investigate.

Culture Definition Essay Topics

What does the term “ belief ” mean to you?
What makes a culture diverse?
How does a culture shock feel ?
How is the notion of “global village” defined?
What does “stereotype” mean?
What is “cultural appropriation” ?
What topics can be called taboo?
Explain the notion of “ zeitgeist. ”
What is “secularization”?
Define the word “ ritual. ”
What does your culture consider traditional values?
What does the notion of “civilization” describe?

Explain what cultural techniques are.
What is “ everyday life ”?
What type of culture is agriculture ?

Culture encompasses abstract notions such as rituals, norms, and manners. Simply put, it has everything to do with people’s way of living. Besides, it expands into the worlds of art, religion, and law. Want some more ideas? Read our extensive list of culture essay topics .

Science and Technology Definition Essay Topics

What are fossil fuels ?
How does an area become polluted ?
How can you define renewable energy sources?
Explain what the term “smart technology” means.
How does a CPU work?
Define the word “technology.”
What does the term “science” encompass?
What defines a vegetable?
What is energy?
What characterizes digital data?
How does blockchain work?
What is weather?
Explain the use of cryptocurrency .
Where did the term “ ecology ” originate?
Define the notion of time .

Technology becomes increasingly important with each passing day. The IT sector is developing particularly fast. For more inspiration, visit our page with topics on science and technology .

Sports Definition Essay Topics

What does it mean to be in shape?
What were the ancient Olympics ?

The first ever Olympic Games took place in 776 B.C.

Explain the difference between American football and rugby.
What makes a good chess player?
When does an activity become a sport?
Explain the word “agility.”
What are the typical forms of indoor sports ?
What is the Tough Mudder?
Define the difference between a sport and a game .
What does the term “fitness” signify?
What does it mean to be athletic?
When does a sport become a niche sport?
What is chess boxing?
What makes a good football player?
What constitutes the different types of wrestling?

Some enjoy sport as a healthy past-time activity. Others prefer to watch it on TV after a long day. With that in mind, it’s unsurprising that sport is one of the world’s biggest industries. You can find more ideas in our list of topics on sports .

Philosophy Definition Essay Topics

How does boredom manifest itself?
What does it mean to be beautiful?
How can you define the word “ freedom ”?
What does “friendship” mean ?
Define the word “passion.”
What is devotion?
What does the notion of “home” mean to you ?
How can you define an aura?
Explain the Categorical Imperative .
What makes someone a villain?
Determine the meaning of the word “justice.”
What does it mean to love someone or something?
What acts show that a person is selfish?
What does it mean to be human?
How does hatred show itself?

“I know that I know nothing.” To this day, Socrates is the prime example of a philosopher. However, philosophy is much more than a profession of ancient times. If you like pondering abstract concepts, have a look at our list of philosophy topics .

✅ Definition Essay Outline Structure & Writing Tips

Definition essay: before you start.

Step #1: Select a topic.

First of all, if your teacher has not specified a theme, you need to select a topic. It can be a subject you know well or something you care about. A bit of research prior to choosing a theme can help pinpoint potential problems. A good idea would be to use a  topic generator for writing .

Step #2: Consider the audience.

Start by creating an outline and organizing your arguments. In doing so, keep your audience in mind. Ask yourself the following questions:

Who will read your essay?
What do they already know about the subject?
Are you addressing a specific group?

Identifying the audience helps to prevent under- or over-explanation. If you know who you are writing for, you know what kind of language to use.

Step #3: Choose a strategy.

Each type of academic writing has its own set of requirements. A definition paper needs to contain an explanation of a concept. Here are different strategies of explaining that you can use in an essay:

By denotation.  Denotation explains a term through its literal meaning. You can find it in a dictionary. Example: According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, nature is “a creative and controlling force in the universe”.
By connotation.  Connotation deals with the implications of a word. It can be positive, negative, or neutral. Have a look at this example: even though “old” and “vintage” have the same denotation, the connotation for “vintage” is more positive. Example: My grandfather calls himself vintage, but I just think he’s old.
By negation.  Negation defines what the term is not. Example: Freedom is not the absence of handcuffs.
By analogy.  An analogy juxtaposes two things that are similar to each other. Example: Socks are like cages for the feet.
By enumeration.  An enumeration is a list of words that serve as an explanation. Example: A hero is someone who is genuinely selfless, helps other people, and wears a cape.

Definition Essay Introduction

An introduction is the opening part of your essay, which sets the tone and piques the reader’s interest. In this part, you can briefly introduce the topic and develop a strong thesis statement.

Start with a nice hook that draws attention to the subject.
Follow it with a transition sentence that leads to the thesis.
A good thesis statement usually gives its reader a clearly stated definition. That way, they can prepare themselves for the discussion and easily follow your paper.

Definition Essay Body

The body of your essay is a part that includes all the information you want to present to the reader. How you divide your body paragraphs and how many of them you have in your paper depends on the topic and how you choose to present it.

Usually, the body consists of two to four paragraphs.
Each body paragraph needs to include a topic sentence, which explains to the reader what this particular paragraph will discuss.
Every new definition, idea, or argument should be explored in a separate paragraph. That makes your essay more cohesive and professional.

Definition Essay Conclusion

Wrap thing up with a good conclusion. This part of the essay usually summarizes most information from the body and reminds readers of the thesis.

The summary shouldn’t be elaborate or too long. Only mention the key points.
When you go back to the thesis statement, don’t use it in the exact same form, but rephrase the sentence while keeping the meaning.

📑 Definition Essay Example: Beauty

So we’ve mentioned all the essential points that can help you write a definition essay. Below, you will find an excellent sample you can use as reference or inspiration while working on your paper. You’re welcome to download the PDF file below:

Throughout centuries people have struggled to define the true meaning of beauty. This phenomenon has been and still is discussed in various literary works and movies. People strive to be beautiful, or they try to find beauty in their life. This essay will argue that beauty is an immense concept with aesthetical and sensual value and varies from person to person.

Definition of Beauty

We hope that this article will help you write a perfect essay! Don’t hesitate and start writing your own definition essay. If you have any questions or ideas on this topic, feel free to share them in the comment section.

How to Write a Definition Essay: St. Cloud State University
Definition Essay: Excelsior College OWL
Vocabulary: Political Words: Scholastic
Science and Technology: British Council
NTID-Supported Athletes at RIT: Rochester Institute of Technology
Glossary of Philosophical Terms: Oxford University Press
Basic World History Terms and Definitions: Quia
Essay Structure: Harvard University
The Definition Essay: Dallas Baptist University
How to Write an Introduction to an Essay: BBC
Definition Essays: Reed College
Essay Writing Tips: Deakin University
Essay Body Paragraphs: Massey University
Conclusions: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Negation: Stanford University
Enumeration: Literary Devices
“Denotation” vs. “Connotation”: What’s The Difference?: Dictionary.com
Before You Start Writing That Paper: University of California, Berkeley
Essay Planning: Outlining with a Purpose: San José State University
Writing an Outline for Your Essay: Carleton University
What Is Analogy? Definition and Examples of Analogy in Literature: MasterClass
Writing Your Conclusion: The University of Sydney
Identifying Audiences: Purdue University
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Writing Tips

50 Argumentative Essay Topics for Students

4-minute read

11th June 2022

The goal of an argumentative essay is to persuade the reader to understand and support your position on an issue by presenting your reasoning along with supporting evidence. It’s important to find the right balance between giving your opinions and presenting established research.

These essays discuss issues around a range of topics, including science, technology, politics, and healthcare. Whether you’re a teacher looking for essay topics for your students or a student tasked with developing an idea of your own, we’ve compiled a list of 50 argumentative essay topics to help you get started!

● Does texting hinder interpersonal communication skills?

● Should there be laws against using devices while driving?

● Do violent video games teach or encourage people to behave violently?

● Should social media sites be allowed to collect users’ data?

● Should parents limit how long their children spend in front of screens?

● Is AI helping or hurting society?

● Should cyber-bullying carry legal consequences?

● Should Supreme Court justices be elected?

● Is war always a political decision?

● Should people join a political party?

● Is capitalism ethical?

● Is the electoral college an effective system?

● Should prisoners be allowed to vote?

● Should the death penalty be legal?

● Are governments around the world doing enough to combat global warming?

● Is healthcare a fundamental human right?

● Should vaccinations be mandated for children?

● Are there any circumstances under which physician-assisted suicides should be legal?

● Should parents be able to choose specific genetic modifications of their future children?

● Should abortion be legal?

● Is it ethical to perform medical experiments on animals?

● Should patients who lead unhealthy lifestyles be denied organ transplants?

● Should doctors be able to provide medical care to children against their parents’ wishes?

Mental Healthcare

● What causes the stigma around mental health?

● Discuss the link between insufficient access to mental health services and the high suicide rates among veterans.

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● Should cannabis be used as a treatment for patients with mental disorders?

● Is there a link between social media use and mental disorders?

● Discuss the effect of physical activity on mental health.

● Should sports be segregated by gender?

● Should male and female athletes be given the same pay and opportunities?

● Are professional athletes overpaid?

● Should college athletes be paid?

● Should sports betting be legal?

● Should online access to art such as music be free?

● Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?

● Are there any circumstances under which books should be banned?

● Should schools be required to offer art courses?

● Is art necessary to society?

● Should schools require uniforms?

● Should reciting the Pledge of Allegiance be required in schools?

● Do standardized tests effectively measure intelligence?

● Should high school students take a gap year before pursuing higher education?

● Should higher education be free?

● Is there too much pressure on high school students to attend college?

● Are children better off in two-parent households?

● Should LGBTQ+ partners be allowed to adopt?

● Should single people be able to adopt children as easily as couples?

● Is it okay for parents to physically discipline their children?

● Does helicopter parenting help or hurt children?

● Should parents monitor their children’s Internet use?

Proofreading & Editing

An argument could also be made for the importance of proofreading your essay ! The reader can focus more on your message when your writing is clear, concise, and error-free, and they won’t question whether you’re knowledgeable on the issues you’re presenting. Once you have a draft ready, you can submit a free trial document to start working with our expert editors!

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50 Argumentative Essay Topics

Illustration by Catherine Song. ThoughtCo.

M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
B.A., History, Armstrong State University

An argumentative essay requires you to decide on a topic and argue for or against it. You'll need to back up your viewpoint with well-researched facts and information as well. One of the hardest parts is deciding which topic to write about, but there are plenty of ideas available to get you started. Then you need to take a position, do some research, and present your viewpoint convincingly.

Choosing a Great Argumentative Essay Topic

Students often find that most of their work on these essays is done before they even start writing. This means that it's best if you have a general interest in your subject. Otherwise, you might get bored or frustrated while trying to gather information. You don't need to know everything, though; part of what makes this experience rewarding is learning something new.

It's best if you have a general interest in your subject, but the argument you choose doesn't have to be one that you agree with.

The subject you choose may not necessarily be one you are in full agreement with, either. You may even be asked to write a paper from the opposing point of view. Researching a different viewpoint helps students broaden their perspectives.

Ideas for Argument Essays

Sometimes, the best ideas are sparked by looking at many different options. Explore this list of possible topics and see if a few pique your interest. Write those down as you come across them, then think about each for a few minutes.

Which would you enjoy researching? Do you have a firm position on a particular subject? Is there a point you would like to make sure you get across? Did the topic give you something new to think about? Can you see why someone else may feel differently?

List of 50 Possible Argumentative Essay Topics

A number of these topics are rather controversial—that's the point. In an argumentative essay , opinions matter, and controversy is based on opinions. Just make sure your opinions are backed up by facts in the essay. If these topics are a little too controversial or you don't find the right one for you, try browsing through persuasive essay and speech topics as well.

Is global climate change caused by humans?
Is the death penalty effective?
Is the U.S. election process fair?
Is torture ever acceptable?
Should men get paternity leave from work?
Are school uniforms beneficial?
Does the U.S. have a fair tax system?
Do curfews keep teens out of trouble?
Is cheating out of control?
Are we too dependent on computers?
Should animals be used for research?
Should cigarette smoking be banned?
Are cell phones dangerous?
Are law enforcement cameras an invasion of privacy?
Do we have a throwaway society ?
Is child behavior better or worse than it was years ago?
Should companies market to children?
Should the government have a say in our diets?
Does access to condoms prevent teen pregnancy?
Should members of Congress have term limits?
Are actors and professional athletes paid too much?
Are CEOs paid too much?
Should athletes be held to high moral standards?
Do violent video games cause behavior problems?
Should creationism be taught in public schools?
Are beauty pageants exploitative ?
Should English be the official language of the United States?
Should the racing industry be forced to use biofuels?
Should the alcohol-drinking age be increased or decreased?
Should everyone be required to recycle?
Is it okay for prisoners to vote (as they are in some states)?
Should same-sex marriage be legalized in more countries?
Are there benefits to attending a single-sex school ?
Does boredom lead to trouble?
Should schools be in session year-round ?
Does religion cause war?
Should the government provide health care?
Should abortion be illegal?
Should more companies expand their reproductive health benefits for employees?
Is homework harmful or helpful?
Is the cost of college too high?
Is college admission too competitive?
Should euthanasia be illegal?
Should the federal government legalize marijuana use nationally ?
Should rich people be required to pay more taxes?
Should schools require foreign language or physical education?
Is affirmative action fair?
Is public prayer okay in schools?
Are schools and teachers responsible for low test scores?
Is greater gun control a good idea?

How to Craft a Persuasive Argument

After you've decided on your essay topic, gather evidence to make your argument as strong as possible. Your research could even help shape the position your essay ultimately takes. As you craft your essay, remember to utilize persuasive writing techniques , such as invoking emotional language or citing facts from authoritative figures.

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160 Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Students in 2024

April 3, 2024

The skill of writing an excellent argumentative essay is a crucial one for every high school or college student to master. In sum, argumentative essays teach students how to organize their thoughts logically and present them in a convincing way. This skill is helpful not only for those pursuing degrees in law , international relations , or public policy , but for any student who wishes to develop their critical thinking faculties. In this article, we’ll cover what makes a good argument essay and offer several argumentative essay topics for high school and college students. Let’s begin!

What is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is an essay that uses research to present a reasoned argument on a particular subject . As with the persuasive essay , the purpose of an argumentative essay is to sway the reader to the writer’s position. However, a strong persuasive essay makes its point through diligent research and emotion while a strong argumentative essay should be based solely on facts, not feelings.

Moreover, each fact should be supported by clear evidence from credible sources . Furthermore, a good argumentative essay will have an easy-to-follow structure. When organizing your argumentative essay, use this format as a guide:

Introduction
Supporting body paragraphs
Paragraph(s) addressing common counterarguments

Argumentative Essay Format

In the introduction , the writer presents their position and thesis statement —a sentence that summarizes the paper’s main points. The body paragraphs then draw upon supporting evidence to back up this initial statement, with each paragraph focusing on its own point. The length of your paper will determine the amount of examples you need. In general, you’ll likely need at least two to three. Additionally, your examples should be as detailed as possible, citing specific research, case studies, statistics, or anecdotes.

In the counterargument paragraph , the writer acknowledges and refutes opposing viewpoints. Finally, in the conclusion , the writer restates the main argument made in the thesis statement and summarizes the points of the essay. Additionally, the conclusion may offer a final proposal to persuade the reader of the essay’s position.

How to Write an Effective Argumentative Essay, Step by Step

Choose your topic. Use the list below to help you pick a topic. Ideally, a good argumentative essay topic will be meaningful to you—writing is always stronger when you are interested in the subject matter. In addition, the topic should be complex with plenty of “pro” and “con” arguments. Avoid choosing a topic that is either widely accepted as fact or too narrow. For example, “Is the earth round?” would not be a solid choice.
Research. Use the library, the web, and any other resources to gather information about your argumentative essay topic. Research widely but smartly. As you go, take organized notes, marking the source of every quote and where it may fit in the scheme of your larger essay. Moreover, remember to look for (and research) possible counterarguments.
Outline . Using the argument essay format above, create an outline for your essay. Then, brainstorm a thesis statement covering your argument’s main points, and begin to put your examples in order, focusing on logical flow. It’s often best to place your strongest example last.
Write . Draw on your research and outline to create a first draft. Remember, your first draft doesn’t need to be perfect. (As Voltaire says, “Perfect is the enemy of good.”) Accordingly, just focus on getting the words down on paper.
Does my thesis statement need to be adjusted?
Which examples feel strongest? Weakest?
Do the transitions flow smoothly?
Do I have a strong opening paragraph?
Does the conclusion reinforce my argument?

Tips for Revising an Argument Essay

Evaluating your own work can be difficult, so you might consider the following strategies:

Read your work aloud to yourself.
Record yourself reading your paper, and listen to the recording.
Reverse outline your paper. Firstly, next to each paragraph, write a short summary of that paragraph’s main points/idea. Then, read through your reverse outline. Does it have a logical flow? If not, where should you adjust?
Print out your paper and cut it into paragraphs. What happens when you rearrange the paragraphs?

Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School, High School, and College Students

Family argumentative essay topics.

Should the government provide financial incentives for families to have children to address the declining birth rate?
Should we require parents to provide their children with a certain level of nutrition and physical activity to prevent childhood obesity?
Should parents implement limits on how much time their children spend playing video games?
Should cell phones be banned from family/holiday gatherings?
Should we hold parents legally responsible for their children’s actions?
Should children have the right to sue their parents for neglect?
Should parents have the right to choose their child’s religion?
Are spanking and other forms of physical punishment an effective method of discipline?
Should courts allow children to choose where they live in cases of divorce?
Should parents have the right to monitor teens’ activity on social media?
Should parents control their child’s medical treatment, even if it goes against the child’s wishes?
Should parents be allowed to post pictures of their children on social media without their consent?
Should fathers have a legal say in whether their partners do or do not receive an abortion?
Can television have positive developmental benefits on children?
Should the driving age be raised to prevent teen car accidents?
Should adult children be legally required to care for their aging parents?

Education Argument Essay Topics

Should schools ban the use of technology like ChatGPT?
Are zoos unethical, or necessary for conservation and education?
To what degree should we hold parents responsible in the event of a school shooting?
Should schools offer students a set number of mental health days?
Should school science curriculums offer a course on combating climate change?
Should public libraries be allowed to ban certain books? If so, what types?
What role, if any, should prayer play in public schools?
Should schools push to abolish homework?
Are gifted and talented programs in schools more harmful than beneficial due to their exclusionary nature?
Should universities do away with Greek life?
Should schools remove artwork, such as murals, that some perceive as offensive?
Should the government grant parents the right to choose alternative education options for their children and use taxpayer funds to support these options?
Is homeschooling better than traditional schooling for children’s academic and social development?
Should we require schools to teach sex education to reduce teen pregnancy rates?
Should we require schools to provide sex education that includes information about both homosexual and heterosexual relationships?
Should colleges use affirmative action and other race-conscious policies to address diversity on campus?
Should public schools remove the line “under God” from the Pledge of Allegiance?
Should college admissions officers be allowed to look at students’ social media accounts?
Should schools abolish their dress codes, many of which unfairly target girls, LGBTQ students, and students of color?
Should schools be required to stock free period products in bathrooms?
Should legacy students receive preferential treatment during the college admissions process?
Are school “voluntourism” trips ethical?

Government Argumentative Essay Topics

Should the U.S. decriminalize prostitution?
Should the U.S. issue migration visas to all eligible applicants?
Should the federal government cancel all student loan debt?
Should we lower the minimum voting age? If so, to what?
Should the federal government abolish all laws penalizing drug production and use?
Should the U.S. use its military power to deter a Chinese invasion of Taiwan?
Should the U.S. supply Ukraine with further military intelligence and supplies?
Should the North and South of the U.S. split up into two regions?
Should Americans hold up nationalism as a critical value?
Should we permit Supreme Court justices to hold their positions indefinitely?
Should Supreme Court justices be democratically elected?
Is the Electoral College still a productive approach to electing the U.S. president?
Should the U.S. implement a national firearm registry?
Is it ethical for countries like China and Israel to mandate compulsory military service for all citizens?
Should the U.S. government implement a ranked-choice voting system?
Should institutions that benefited from slavery be required to provide reparations?
Based on the 1619 project, should history classes change how they teach about the founding of the U.S.?
Should term limits be imposed on Senators and Representatives? If so, how long?
Should women be allowed into special forces units?
Should the federal government implement stronger, universal firearm licensing laws?
Do public sex offender registries help prevent future sex crimes?
Should the government be allowed to regulate family size?
Should all adults legally be considered mandated reporters?
Should the government fund public universities to make higher education more accessible to low-income students?
Should the government fund universal preschool to improve children’s readiness for kindergarten?

Health/Bioethics Argumentative Essay Topics

Should the U.S. government offer its own healthcare plan?
In the case of highly infectious pandemics, should we focus on individual freedoms or public safety when implementing policies to control the spread?
Should we legally require parents to vaccinate their children to protect public health?
Is it ethical for parents to use genetic engineering to create “designer babies” with specific physical and intellectual traits?
Should the government fund research on embryonic stem cells for medical treatments?
Should the government legalize assisted suicide for terminally ill patients?
Should organ donation be mandatory?
Is cloning animals ethical?
Should cancer screenings start earlier? If so, what age?
Is surrogacy ethical?
Should birth control require a prescription?
Should minors have access to emergency contraception?
Should hospitals be for-profit or nonprofit institutions?

Good Argumentative Essay Topics — Continued

Social media argumentative essay topics.

Should the federal government increase its efforts to minimize the negative impact of social media?
Do social media and smartphones strengthen one’s relationships?
Should antitrust regulators take action to limit the size of big tech companies?
Should social media platforms ban political advertisements?
Should the federal government hold social media companies accountable for instances of hate speech discovered on their platforms?
Do apps such as TikTok and Instagram ultimately worsen the mental well-being of teenagers?
Should governments oversee how social media platforms manage their users’ data?
Should social media platforms like Facebook enforce a minimum age requirement for users?
Should social media companies be held responsible for cases of cyberbullying?
Should the United States ban TikTok?
Is social media harmful to children?
Should employers screen applicants’ social media accounts during the hiring process?

Religion Argument Essay Topics

Should religious institutions be tax-exempt?
Should religious symbols such as the hijab or crucifix be allowed in public spaces?
Should religious freedoms be protected, even when they conflict with secular laws?
Should the government regulate religious practices?
Should we allow churches to engage in political activities?
Religion: a force for good or evil in the world?
Should the government provide funding for religious schools?
Is it ethical for healthcare providers to deny abortions based on religious beliefs?
Should religious organizations be allowed to discriminate in their hiring practices?
Should we allow people to opt out of medical treatments based on their religious beliefs?
Should the U.S. government hold religious organizations accountable for cases of sexual abuse within their community?
Should religious beliefs be exempt from anti-discrimination laws?
Should religious individuals be allowed to refuse services to others based on their beliefs or lifestyles? (As in this famous case .)
Should the US ban religion-based federal holidays?
Should public schools be allowed to teach children about religious holidays?

Science Argument Essay Topics

Would the world be safer if we eliminated nuclear weapons?
Should scientists bring back extinct animals? If so, which ones?
Should we hold companies fiscally responsible for their carbon footprint?
Should we ban pesticides in favor of organic farming methods?
Should the federal government ban all fossil fuels, despite the potential economic impact on specific industries and communities?
What renewable energy source should the U.S. invest more money in?
Should the FDA outlaw GMOs?
Should we worry about artificial intelligence surpassing human intelligence?
Should the alternative medicine industry be more stringently regulated?
Is colonizing Mars a viable option?
Is the animal testing worth the potential to save human lives?

Sports Argument Essay Topics

Should colleges compensate student-athletes?
How should sports teams and leagues address the gender pay gap?
Should youth sports teams do away with scorekeeping?
Should we ban aggressive contact sports like boxing and MMA?
Should professional sports associations mandate that athletes stand during the national anthem?
Should high schools require their student-athletes to maintain a certain GPA?
Should transgender athletes compete in sports according to their gender identity?
Should schools ban football due to the inherent danger it poses to players?
Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports?
Do participation trophies foster entitlement and unrealistic expectations?
Should sports teams be divided by gender?
Should professional athletes be allowed to compete in the Olympics?
Should women be allowed on NFL teams?

Technology Argumentative Essay Topics

Should sites like DALL-E compensate the artists whose work it was trained on?
Should the federal government make human exploration of space a more significant priority?
Is it ethical for the government to use surveillance technology to monitor citizens?
Should websites require proof of age from their users? If so, what age?
Should we consider A.I.-generated images and text pieces of art?
Does the use of facial recognition technology violate individuals’ privacy?
Is online learning as effective as in-person learning?
Does computing harm the environment?
Should buying, sharing, and selling collected personal data be illegal?
Are electric cars really better for the environment?
Should car companies be held responsible for self-driving car accidents?
Should private jets be banned?
Do violent video games contribute to real-life violence?

Business Argument Essay Topics

Should the U.S. government phase out the use of paper money in favor of a fully digital currency system?
Should the federal government abolish its patent and copyright laws?
Should we replace the Federal Reserve with free-market institutions?
Is free-market ideology responsible for the U.S. economy’s poor performance over the past decade?
Will cryptocurrencies overtake natural resources like gold and silver?
Is capitalism the best economic system? What system would be better?
Should the U.S. government enact a universal basic income?
Should we require companies to provide paid parental leave to their employees?
Should the government raise the minimum wage? If so, to what?
Should antitrust regulators break up large companies to promote competition?
Is it ethical for companies to prioritize profits over social responsibility?
Should gig-economy workers like Uber and Lyft drivers be considered employees or independent contractors?
Should the federal government regulate the gig economy to ensure fair treatment of workers?
Should the government require companies to disclose the environmental impact of their products?
Should companies be allowed to fire employees based on political views or activities?
Should tipping practices be phased out?
Should employees who choose not to have children be given the same amount of paid leave as parents?
Should MLMs (multi-level marketing companies) be illegal?
Should employers be allowed to factor tattoos and personal appearance into hiring decisions?

In Conclusion – Argument Essay Topics

Using the tips above, you can effectively structure and pen a compelling argumentative essay that will wow your instructor and classmates. Remember to craft a thesis statement that offers readers a roadmap through your essay, draw on your sources wisely to back up any claims, and read through your paper several times before it’s due to catch any last-minute proofreading errors. With time, diligence, and patience, your essay will be the most outstanding assignment you’ve ever turned in…until the next one rolls around.

Looking for more fresh and engaging topics for use in the classroom? You might consider checking out the following:

125 Good Debate Topics for High School Students
150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics
7 Best Places to Study
Guide to the IB Extended Essay
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High School Success

Lauren Green

With a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing from Columbia University and an MFA in Fiction from the Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas at Austin, Lauren has been a professional writer for over a decade. She is the author of the chapbook A Great Dark House (Poetry Society of America, 2023) and a forthcoming novel (Viking/Penguin).

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50 Great Argumentative Essay Topics for Any Assignment

General Education

At some point, you’re going to be asked to write an argumentative essay. An argumentative essay is exactly what it sounds like—an essay in which you’ll be making an argument, using examples and research to back up your point.

But not all argumentative essay topics are created equal. Not only do you have to structure your essay right to have a good impact on the reader, but even your choice of subject can impact how readers feel about your work.

In this article, we’ll cover the basics of writing argumentative essays, including what argumentative essays are, how to write a good one, and how to pick a topic that works for you. Then check out a list of argumentative essay ideas to help you get started.

What Is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is one that makes an argument through research. These essays take a position and support it through evidence, but, unlike many other kinds of essays, they are interested in expressing a specific argument supported by research and evidence.

A good argumentative essay will be based on established or new research rather than only on your thoughts and feelings. Imagine that you’re trying to get your parents to raise your allowance, and you can offer one of two arguments in your favor:

You should raise my allowance because I want you to.

You should raise my allowance because I’ve been taking on more chores without complaining.

The first argument is based entirely in feelings without any factual backup, whereas the second is based on evidence that can be proven. Your parents are more likely to respond positively to the second argument because it demonstrates that you have done something to earn the increased allowance. Similarly, a well-researched and reasoned argument will show readers that your point has a basis in fact, not just feelings.

The standard five-paragraph essay is common in writing argumentative essays, but it’s not the only way to write one. An argumentative essay is typically written in one of two formats, the Toulmin model or the Rogerian model.

The Toulmin model is the most common, comprised of an introduction with a claim (otherwise known as a thesis), with data to support it. This style of essay will also include rebuttals, helping to strengthen your argument by anticipating counterarguments.

The Rogerian model analyzes two sides of an argument and reaches a conclusion after weighing the strengths and weaknesses of each.

Both essay styles rely on well-reasoned logic and supporting evidence to prove a point, just in two different ways.

The important thing to note about argumentative essays as opposed to other kinds of essays is that they aim to argue a specific point rather than to explain something or to tell a story. While they may have some things in common with analytical essays, the primary difference is in their objective—an argumentative essay aims to convince someone of something, whereas an analytical essay contextualizes a topic with research.

What Makes a Good Argumentative Essay?

To write an effective argumentative essay, you need to know what a good one looks like. In addition to a solid structure, you’ll need an argument, a strong thesis, and solid research.

An Argument

Unlike other forms of essays, you are trying to convince your reader of something. You’re not just teaching them a concept or demonstrating an idea—you’re constructing an argument to change the readers’ thinking.

You’ll need to develop a good argument, which encompasses not just your main point, but also all the pieces that make it up.

Think beyond what you are saying and include how you’re saying it. How will you take an idea and turn it into a complex and well thought out argument that is capable of changing somebody’s mind?

A Strong Thesis

The thesis is the core of your argument. What specific message are you trying to get across? State that message in one sentence, and that will be your thesis.

This is the foundation on which your essay is built, so it needs to be strong and well-reasoned. You need to be able to expand on it with facts and sources, not just feelings.

A good argumentative essay isn’t just based on your individual thoughts, but research. That can be citing sources and other arguments or it can mean direct research in the field, depending on what your argument is and the context in which you are arguing it.

Be prepared to back your thesis up with reporting from scientific journals, newspapers, or other forms of research. Having well-researched sources will help support your argument better than hearsay or assumptions. If you can’t find enough research to back up your point, it’s worth reconsidering your thesis or conducting original research, if possible.

How to Come Up With an Argumentative Essay Topic

Sometimes you may find yourself arguing things you don’t necessarily believe. That’s totally fine—you don’t actually have to wholeheartedly believe in what you’re arguing in order to construct a compelling argument.

However, if you have free choice of topic, it’s a good idea to pick something you feel strongly about. There are two key components to a good argumentative essay: a strong stance, and an assortment of evidence. If you’re interested and feel passionate about the topic you choose, you'll have an easier time finding evidence to support it, but it's the evidence that's most important.

So, to choose a topic, think about things you feel strongly about, whether positively or negatively. You can make a list of ideas and narrow those down to a handful of things, then expand on those ideas with a few potential points you want to hit on.

For example, say you’re trying to decide whether you should write about how your neighborhood should ban weed killer, that your school’s lunch should be free for all students, or that the school day should be cut by one hour. To decide between these ideas, you can make a list of three to five points for each that cover the different evidence you could use to support each point.

For the weed killer ban, you could say that weed killer has been proven to have adverse impacts on bees, that there are simple, natural alternatives, and that weeds aren’t actually bad to have around. For the free lunch idea, you could suggest that some students have to go hungry because they can’t afford lunch, that funds could be diverted from other places to support free lunch, and that other items, like chips or pizza, could be sold to help make up lost revenue. And for the school day length example, you could argue that teenagers generally don’t get enough sleep, that you have too much homework and not enough time to do it, and that teenagers don’t spend enough time with their families.

You might find as you make these lists that some of them are stronger than others. The more evidence you have and the stronger you feel that that evidence is, the better the topic. Of course, if you feel that one topic may have more evidence but you’d rather not write about it, it’s okay to pick another topic instead. When you’re making arguments, it can be much easier to find strong points and evidence if you feel passionate about our topic than if you don't.

50 Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

If you’re struggling to come up with topics on your own, read through this list of argumentative essay topics to help get you started!

Should fracking be legal?
Should parents be able to modify their unborn children?
Do GMOs help or harm people?
Should vaccinations be required for students to attend public school?
Should world governments get involved in addressing climate change?
Should Facebook be allowed to collect data from its users?
Should self-driving cars be legal?
Is it ethical to replace human workers with automation?
Should there be laws against using cell phones while driving?
Has the internet positively or negatively impacted human society?

Should college athletes be paid for being on sports teams?
Should coaches and players make the same amount of money?
Should sports be segregated by gender?
Should the concept of designated hitters in baseball be abolished?
Should US sports take soccer more seriously?
Should religious organizations have to pay taxes?
Should religious clubs be allowed in schools?
Should “one nation under God” be in the pledge of allegiance?
Should religion be taught in schools?
Should clergy be allowed to marry?
Should minors be able to purchase birth control without parental consent?
Should the US switch to single-payer healthcare?
Should assisted suicide be legal?
Should dietary supplements and weight loss items like teas be allowed to advertise through influencers?
Should doctors be allowed to promote medicines?

Government/Politics

Is the electoral college an effective system for modern America?
Should Puerto Rico become a state?
Should voter registration be automatic?
Should people in prison be allowed to vote?
Should Supreme Court justices be elected?
Should sex work be legalized?
Should Columbus Day be replaced with Indigenous Peoples’ Day?
Should the death penalty be legal?
Should animal testing be allowed?
Should drug possession be decriminalized?

Should unpaid internships be legal?
Should minimum wage be increased?
Should monopolies be allowed?
Is universal basic income a good idea?
Should corporations have a higher or lower tax rate?
Are school uniforms a good idea?
Should PE affect a student’s grades?
Should college be free?
Should Greek life in colleges be abolished?
Should students be taught comprehensive sex ed?

Arts/Culture

Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?
Should books with objectionable words be banned?
Should content on YouTube be better regulated?
Is art education important?
Should art and music sharing online be allowed?

How to Argue Effectively

A strong argument isn’t just about having a good point. If you can’t support that point well, your argument falls apart.

One of the most important things you can do in writing a strong argumentative essay is organizing well. Your essay should have a distinct beginning, middle, and end, better known as the introduction, body and opposition, and conclusion.

This example follows the Toulmin model—if your essay follows the Rogerian model, the same basic premise is true, but your thesis will instead propose two conflicting viewpoints that will be resolved through evidence in the body, with your conclusion choosing the stronger of the two arguments.

Introduction

Your hook should draw the reader’s interest immediately. Questions are a common way of getting interest, as well as evocative language or a strong statistic

Don’t assume that your audience is already familiar with your topic. Give them some background information, such as a brief history of the issue or some additional context.

Your thesis is the crux of your argument. In an argumentative essay, your thesis should be clearly outlined so that readers know exactly what point you’ll be making. Don’t explain all your evidence in the opening, but do take a strong stance and make it clear what you’ll be discussing.

Your claims are the ideas you’ll use to support your thesis. For example, if you’re writing about how your neighborhood shouldn’t use weed killer, your claim might be that it’s bad for the environment. But you can’t just say that on its own—you need evidence to support it.

Evidence is the backbone of your argument. This can be things you glean from scientific studies, newspaper articles, or your own research. You might cite a study that says that weed killer has an adverse effect on bees, or a newspaper article that discusses how one town eliminated weed killer and saw an increase in water quality. These kinds of hard evidence support your point with demonstrable facts, strengthening your argument.

In your essay, you want to think about how the opposition would respond to your claims and respond to them. Don’t pick the weakest arguments, either— figure out what other people are saying and respond to those arguments with clearly reasoned arguments.

Demonstrating that you not only understand the opposition’s point, but that your argument is strong enough to withstand it, is one of the key pieces to a successful argumentative essay.

Conclusions are a place to clearly restate your original point, because doing so will remind readers exactly what you’re arguing and show them how well you’ve argued that point.

Summarize your main claims by restating them, though you don’t need to bring up the evidence again. This helps remind readers of everything you’ve said throughout the essay.

End by suggesting a picture of a world in which your argument and action are ignored. This increases the impact of your argument and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

A strong argumentative essay is one with good structure and a strong argument , but there are a few other things you can keep in mind to further strengthen your point.

When you’re crafting an argument, it can be easy to get distracted by all the information and complications in your argument. It’s important to stay focused—be clear in your thesis and home in on claims that directly support that thesis.

Be Rational

It’s important that your claims and evidence be based in facts, not just opinion. That’s why it’s important to use reliable sources based in science and reporting—otherwise, it’s easy for people to debunk your arguments.

Don’t rely solely on your feelings about the topic. If you can’t back a claim up with real evidence, it leaves room for counterarguments you may not anticipate. Make sure that you can support everything you say with clear and concrete evidence, and your claims will be a lot stronger!

What’s Next?

No matter what kind of essay you're writing, a strong plan will help you have a bigger impact. This guide to writing a college essay is a great way to get started on your essay organizing journey!

Brushing up on your essay format knowledge to prep for the SAT? Check out this list of SAT essay prompts to help you kickstart your studying!

A bunch of great essay examples can help you aspire to greatness, but bad essays can also be a warning for what not to do. This guide to bad college essays will help you better understand common mistakes to avoid in essay writing!

Looking for help with high school? Our one-on-one online tutoring services can help you study for important exams, review challenging material, or plan out big projects. Get matched with a top tutor who is an expert in the subject you're studying!

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Melissa Brinks graduated from the University of Washington in 2014 with a Bachelor's in English with a creative writing emphasis. She has spent several years tutoring K-12 students in many subjects, including in SAT prep, to help them prepare for their college education.

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150 Exemplification Essay Topics: Inspiration & Writing Tips

Updated 23 Sep 2024

What is an Exemplification Essay?

An exemplification essay is a type of argumentative writing that uses specific examples to clarify a general idea or to support a thesis. It is commonly used in academic settings to present a balanced and thorough discussion on a given topic. Writers often employ this style when they need to explain complex concepts or controversial issues, using real-world examples to illustrate their points.

Exemplification essays are particularly useful in educational contexts, research papers, and persuasive writing, where a deeper understanding and clear communication are essential. This essay type requires a structured approach, including an introduction with a clear thesis, body paragraphs presenting detailed examples, and a conclusion reinforcing the argument. The key is to provide enough examples to substantiate the claim without overwhelming the reader.

The Importance of Choosing a Good Topic for an Exemplification Essay

Selecting the right topic for an exemplification essay is crucial as it sets the foundation for your entire piece. A well-chosen topic makes the writing process smoother and ensures that your essay is engaging and informative for your audience. It allows you to explore a subject thoroughly, using concrete examples to support your argument and make complex ideas more accessible.

When choosing a topic, consider your interests and its relevance to your audience. Opt for subjects that offer a balance between being broad enough to find numerous examples and specific enough to maintain a clear focus. This will help you craft a compelling essay that is both persuasive and insightful.

Tips for Choosing a Good Topic:

Choose a Relevant Issue: Select a topic that resonates with current social, technological, or cultural trends.
Ensure Availability of Examples: Make sure you can find concrete examples to support your arguments.
Balance Complexity and Clarity: Avoid overly complicated topics that are difficult to explain or too simple that they lack depth.

By carefully selecting your topic, you ensure a more effective and impactful essay that resonates with readers.

150+ Exemplification essay topics across subjects

Technology and innovation.

The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Employment
Pros and Cons of Blockchain Technology in Finance
The Role of Technology in Modern Education
Cybersecurity Challenges in the Digital Age
The Influence of Social Media on Society
Big Data and Privacy Concerns
The Future of Autonomous Vehicles
How Virtual Reality is Changing Entertainment
Renewable Energy Innovations and Sustainable Development
The Role of Drones in Environmental Conservation

Environmental Issues

Climate Change: Causes, Effects, and Solutions
Plastic Pollution in Oceans and Solutions
Deforestation and Its Impact on Biodiversity
The Global Water Crisis and Sustainable Water Management
The Role of Individuals in Environmental Conservation
Urban Sprawl and Its Environmental Impact
The Impact of Fast Fashion on the Environment
Sustainable Agriculture Practices
Air Pollution and Its Effects on Public Health
The Future of Electric Vehicles and Green Transportation

Social Issues

The Global Impact of Poverty and Inequality
Gender Equality: Progress and Challenges
The Effects of Globalization on Local Cultures
Racial Discrimination and Social Justice Movements
Mental Health Awareness and Stigma Reduction
The Refugee Crisis: Causes and Solutions
The Role of Social Media in Activism
LGBTQ+ Rights and Legal Recognition Worldwide
Human Trafficking: A Modern Form of Slavery
The Opioid Crisis: Public Health and Policy Responses

Health and Wellness

The Importance of Nutrition in Preventing Chronic Diseases
The Impact of Exercise on Mental Health
Vaccinations: Myths and Facts
The Global Rise of Obesity and Public Health Strategies
The Benefits of Mindfulness and Meditation
The Relationship Between Mental Health and Social Media Use
The Role of Genetics in Personalized Medicine
The Health Risks of Air and Water Pollution
The Importance of Sleep for Overall Health
Stress Management Techniques for a Balanced Life

Education and Learning

The Benefits and Challenges of Homeschooling
The Importance of Early Childhood Education
Online Learning: Pros and Cons
The Future of Higher Education Post-Pandemic
The Importance of STEM Education
The Role of Art and Music in Cognitive Development
The Impact of Social Media on Learning and Attention
The Importance of Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
The Role of Physical Education in Schools

Business and Economics

The Effects of Globalization on Small Businesses
Corporate Social Responsibility and Its Impact on Brand Image
The Influence of E-commerce on Traditional Retail
The Importance of Financial Literacy for Young Adults
The Role of Startups in Economic Development
Ethical Issues in Corporate Governance
The Impact of Remote Work on Business Productivity
The Future of Cryptocurrency in Global Markets
The Role of Women in Business Leadership
The Effects of Minimum Wage Increases on the Economy

Politics and Law

The Impact of Lobbying on Political Decisions
The Importance of Voting in a Democracy
The Role of International Organizations in Global Peacekeeping
The Effects of Media Bias on Public Opinion
The Ethics of Capital Punishment
The Influence of Social Movements on Legal Reforms
The Impact of Immigration Policies on Society
Freedom of Speech vs. Hate Speech: A Legal Perspective
The Role of the Judiciary in Protecting Human Rights
The Effectiveness of Gun Control Laws

Science and Research

The Importance of Space Exploration for Humanity
The Ethical Implications of Genetic Engineering
The Role of Vaccines in Public Health
The Impact of Climate Change on Marine Life
The Benefits and Risks of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
The Role of Citizen Science in Research
The Future of Renewable Energy Technologies
The Ethics of Animal Testing in Scientific Research
The Role of Research in Developing Sustainable Agriculture
The Importance of Funding for Scientific Innovation

Media and Entertainment

The Influence of Pop Culture on Youth Behavior
The Role of Journalism in Modern Society
The Impact of Reality TV on Public Perception
The Evolution of Film Genres Over the Decades
The Role of Music in Cultural Identity
The Influence of Video Games on Cognitive Skills
The Impact of Social Media on Celebrity Culture
The Role of Documentaries in Social Awareness
The Evolution of News Consumption in the Digital Age
The Influence of Advertising on Consumer Behavior

Lifestyle and Personal Development

The Importance of Work-Life Balance
The Role of Hobbies in Personal Growth
The Impact of Travel on Cultural Understanding
The Importance of Time Management in Student Success
The Influence of Minimalism on Mental Health
The Role of Volunteering in Community Development
The Impact of Social Media on Self-Esteem
The Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet for Health
The Role of Mentorship in Career Development
The Importance of Setting Personal Goals

Sports and Recreation

The Role of Sports in Building Character
The Impact of Professional Sports on Society
The Importance of Physical Activity for Mental Health
The Role of Sports in Promoting National Unity
The Influence of Sponsorships on Sports Performance
The Impact of Technology on Sports Training and Performance
The Ethics of Performance-Enhancing Drugs in Sports
The Role of Youth Sports in Community Engagement
The Influence of Media on Sports Popularity
The Importance of Sportsmanship in Athletic Competitions

Culture and Society

The Impact of Cultural Diversity on Society
The Role of Traditions in Preserving Cultural Heritage
The Influence of Globalization on Cultural Identity
The Role of Festivals in Community Building
The Impact of Language on Cultural Perception
The Influence of Social Media on Cultural Norms
The Role of Art in Social Change
The Importance of Cultural Sensitivity in Communication
The Impact of Migration on Cultural Integration
The Role of Literature in Shaping Society

Ethics and Morality

The Role of Ethics in Business Decision Making
The Importance of Ethical Leadership in Politics
The Ethics of Genetic Modification in Humans
The Moral Implications of Euthanasia
The Role of Ethics in Environmental Conservation
The Impact of Cultural Differences on Moral Values
The Ethics of Surveillance and Privacy
The Role of Religion in Moral Development
The Ethics of Capital Punishment in Modern Society
The Moral Dilemmas of War and Conflict

Family and Relationships

The Impact of Parenting Styles on Child Development
The Role of Communication in Healthy Relationships
The Influence of Family Structure on Children's Education
The Importance of Work-Life Balance in Family Life
The Role of Technology in Modern Relationships
The Impact of Divorce on Family Dynamics
The Influence of Social Media on Romantic Relationships
The Role of Extended Family in Child Development
The Impact of Cultural Differences on Family Life
The Importance of Family Support in Personal Growth

Arts and Humanities

The Role of Art in Expressing Social Issues
The Influence of Literature on Cultural Perception
The Impact of Music on Emotional Wellbeing
The Role of Theatre in Community Engagement
The Evolution of Visual Arts in the Digital Age
The Influence of Architecture on Urban Development
The Role of Poetry in Social Change
The Impact of Historical Events on Contemporary Art
The Influence of Dance on Cultural Identity
The Role of Museums in Preserving History

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Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Exemplification Essays

In conclusion, learning how to write an exemplification essay is a valuable skill that enhances your ability to present complex ideas clearly and persuasively. Choosing a compelling topic and using specific examples can effectively support your argument and engage your readers. Remember to maintain a structured approach: introduce your thesis, present detailed examples in the body, and reinforce your main points in the conclusion. This method strengthens your argument and demonstrates your critical thinking and writing skills.

To truly excel in writing exemplification essays, focus on selecting relevant and illustrative examples that resonate with your audience. Your examples should clarify your thesis and add depth and perspective to your argument. With practice and careful attention to detail, you can master the art of exemplification and create informative and compelling essays.

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A definition essay is a type of essay that seeks to define and explain a concept, term, or idea. The goal of this type of essay is: to explain the meaning of a concept, term, or idea. to examine how a concept, term, or idea is defined by different people and groups. to analyze the implications of a particular definition.
150 Best Definition Essay Topics For Students
Unique Definition Essay Topics. The quirkiness of 'fam': exploring unconventional family structures. The essence of 'chill': beyond a relaxing vibe. Defining 'awkward': navigating social discomfort. The true meaning of 'indie': beyond music and film. The 'vibe' culture: capturing the unspoken atmosphere.
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A definition essay is a common writing assignment in schools and universities. Put simply, It asks a student to choose a word and define it in-depth. The common dictionary definition is the first thing to state (in your own words), then the lesser-known meanings of the concept, followed by personal anecdotes and opinions further explaining the ...
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Extended Definition Essays Ideas. Some definitions could be extended to cover more complex or general ideas. These definition paragraph topics will show you how it could be done. Being Miserable and Committing Crimes: Define Link Between These Concepts. Pick Any Three Related Concepts and Elaborate On Them.
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Learn the structure of a definition essay and read two examples of essays about concrete and abstract concepts. Dictionary ... Review the example essays below and try exploring some of the suggested essay topics, too. Definition Essay Structure. You can follow the general structure for an expository essay when writing a definition essay. ...
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The definition essay is deceptively simple. All you need to do is define a term or concept. But a definition essay is more than a simple dictionary definition. A definition essay extends the definition by providing examples to help readers understand the term or concept being defined. Let me say that again: a definition essay uses an extended ...
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Definitional arguments require a definition of key terms: Example: Joe is too bossy. Define "bossy" and provide examples of his bossy attitude (poor listening skills, shouting at people, making decisions without asking committee—these are what define "bossy" in your argument. Example: Low-carb diets are dangerous.
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How to Write an Effective Argumentative Essay, Step by Step. Choose your topic. Use the list below to help you pick a topic. Ideally, a good argumentative essay topic will be meaningful to you—writing is always stronger when you are interested in the subject matter. In addition, the topic should be complex with plenty of "pro" and "con ...
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A good argumentative essay will be based on established or new research rather than only on your thoughts and feelings. Imagine that you're trying to get your parents to raise your allowance, and you can offer one of two arguments in your favor: You should raise my allowance because I want you to.
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Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Exemplification Essays In conclusion, learning how to write an exemplification essay is a valuable skill that enhances your ability to present complex ideas clearly and persuasively. Choosing a compelling topic and using specific examples can effectively support your argument and engage your readers.

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Definition Essay Topics With Multiple Meanings

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How to Write a Good Definition Essay?

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Breaking Down Concepts: A How-To Guide for Writing Definition Essays

What Is a Definition Essay?

Choosing the Right Topic

What Is the Purpose of a Definition Essay and Creating an Outline?

Structuring the Definition Essay

Introduction:

Body Paragraphs :

Conclusion:

Writing Tips and Techniques for Crafting an Excellent Definition Essay

Use Multiple Sources for Definitions

Classify the Term

Separate a Word Into Various Parts

Begin your essay With a Standard Definition

Incorporate Your Thesis Early

Consider Different Viewpoints or Interpretations

Use Real-Life Examples and Anecdotes:

Analyze the Term’s Origin and History

Discuss the Term in Different Contexts

Compare and Contrast

Address Common Misconceptions

Introspection and the Effect of the Defining Term

List of Definition Essay Topics

Striking the Balance in Academic Writing

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