Reading Theme:
Definition: Meaning, Usage & Examples Explained (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：exact meaning (definition)
definition
/ˌdɛfɪˈnɪʃ(ə)n/
n.
A clear explanation of what a word or idea means, especially the one you find in a dictionary.
exact meaning
➕
/ɪɡˈzækt ˈmiːnɪŋ/
n.
The precise explanation or description of what a word, phrase, or concept signifies.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'definire' (to set limits, to define), from 'de-' (completely) + 'finire' (to bound, limit).
💡 Mnemonic
Think: 'DEtails + FINal answer + ITION (condition)' = the detailed final answer that sets the condition for a word's meaning.
📖 Example
When I first read the word ‘altruism’, I had to look up its definition in the dictionary to fully understand it.
When I first read the word 'altruism', I had to look up its exact meaning in the dictionary to fully understand it.
🔗 Collocations
formal definition – A precise, official explanation of a term.
precise definition – An exact and accurate explanation.
by definition – According to the fundamental nature of something.
🔄 Synonyms
meaning (n.) – What is intended to be, or actually is, expressed or indicated.
explanation (n.) – A statement that makes something clear.
interpretation (n.) – The action of explaining the meaning of something.
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
define (v.) – To state or describe exactly the nature, scope, or meaning of.
definable (adj.) – Able to be defined or clearly described.
definitive (adj.) – Of the most accurate or authoritative nature.
📖 Cultural Story
The word entered English in the late 14th century from Old French 'definicion', which itself came from Latin 'definitionem' (a bounding, a limit). Its core idea of 'setting boundaries' for a word's meaning reflects the logical precision valued in medieval philosophy and law.
Meaning 2：clarity and sharpness (definition)
definition
/ˌdɛfɪˈnɪʃ(ə)n/
n.
The degree to which an image, sound, or picture is clear, sharp, and not blurry.
clarity and sharpness
➕
/ˈklærəti ənd ˈʃɑːpnəs/
n.
The degree of distinctness and detail in a visual image or audio signal.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The new smartphone camera takes photos with amazing definition, you can see every detail of the flower petals.
The new smartphone camera takes photos with amazing clarity and sharpness, you can see every detail of the flower petals.
🔗 Collocations
high definition – A standard for high-quality, sharp images and sound.
crystal-clear definition – Extremely sharp and clear visual or audio quality.
lack of definition – Poor clarity or sharpness in an image or sound.
🔄 Synonyms
clarity (n.) – The quality of being clear and easy to perceive.
sharpness (n.) – The quality of having a clear and distinct outline.
resolution (n.) – The degree of detail visible in an image.
🚫 Antonyms
blurriness (n.) – The quality of being unclear or lacking sharp outlines.
fuzziness (n.) – The quality of being indistinct or hazy.
Wordbook
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