Bailey.Academic_Writing

2.5 Definitions
cross-reference
1.14 Introductions
1. In academic writing, definitions are normally needed in two
situations:
In introductions, to clarify a word or phrase in the title.
More generally, to explain a word or phrase which may be
either very technical (and so not in normal dictionaries), very
recent, or with no widely agreed meaning.
Word Category Detail Use
A lecture is a formal talk given to a large
group,
An assignment is a task often given to
students
often used for
teaching.
for teaching or
assessment.
2. Insert suitable category words in the following definitions.
a) A barometer is a scientific . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . designed to
measure atmospheric pressure.
b) Kidneys are . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . that separate waste fluid from
the blood.
c) A multi-national company is a business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . that
operates in many countries.
d) Reinforced concrete is a building . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . consisting
of cement, sand and steel rods.
e) Bullying is a pattern of anti-social . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . found in
many schools.
f) Recycling is a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . in which materials are used
again.
g) A recession is a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . of reduced economic
activity.
h) Post codes are a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . for making mail delivery
more efficient.
3. More complete definitions may be written by adding
examples or extra information:
A mortgage is a type of loan (which is) used for buying
property, in which the lender has the security of the
property.
Complete and extend the following definitions.
a) Distillation is a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . used to .................
.................................
b) A psychiatrist is a . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . who specialises in . . . . .
...........................