Chapter 14 - Creating Definitions

Chapter fourteen covers the topic of definitions. Because words, phrases, or symbols have different meanings in different contexts, technical writing often requires definitions. The definitions differ from those of a dictionary in that they usually need to be more specific to be useful to the intended audience. Definitions aren’t only needed for the pure comprehension of the audience, but can be used to a marketer’s advantage as well. Figure 14.1 shows how definitions can be used to educate a customer about comparative benefits of a product. Chapter fourteen also addresses the different types of definitions such as operational and expanded definitions and how they may be used. I am constantly coming across technical definitions, and many times, across multiple contexts. Trying to define terms for the reader can be tricky, especially if they are common to me, but the guidelines and examples in chapter fourteen are very helpful in determining the correct way to go about it.