Circular definition definitions
| Word backwards | ralucric noitinifed |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Noun |
| Syllabic division | cir-cu-lar de-fi-ni-tion |
| Plural | The plural of the word circular definition is circular definitions. |
| Total letters | 18 |
| Vogais (5) | i,u,a,e,o |
| Consonants (7) | c,r,l,d,f,n,t |
Circular Definition
Circular definition refers to a form of definition that includes the term being defined as a part of the definition itself. In other words, it is a type of definition that uses the word or concept being defined in the explanation, creating a loop that does not provide any new information.
Characteristics
A circular definition can be confusing and unhelpful because it does not offer a clear understanding of the term in question. It is essentially a form of circular reasoning where the term is used to define itself, leading to a lack of clarity and specificity.
Examples
For example, defining "apple" as a fruit that is an apple would be considered a circular definition. Similarly, defining "education" as the act of educating is another example of a circular definition.
Issues
Circular definitions are often criticized for their lack of informative value. They do not provide insight into the true meaning of a word or concept because they simply repeat the term in question without offering any new or useful information.
Importance of Avoiding Circular Definitions
When defining terms or concepts, it is important to avoid circular definitions to ensure clarity and understanding. Using circular definitions can lead to confusion and make it difficult for others to grasp the true meaning of the term being defined.
By utilizing clear and concise language, one can provide meaningful definitions that help others comprehend the subject matter more effectively. Avoiding circular definitions is essential for effective communication and knowledge transfer.
Circular definition Examples
- 1. The dictionary's circular definition of "astute" as "having or showing an ability to accurately assess situations or people" is not very helpful.
- 2. Using the phrase "unbelievably incredible" to describe something is a circular definition because incredible already means something that is hard to believe.
- 3. The circular definition of "paradox" as "a seemingly absurd or self-contradictory statement or proposition" can be confusing for some people to understand.
- 4. When defining the term "wordplay" as "the playful use of words", one could argue that it is a circular definition.
- 5. The circular definition of "redundant" as "not necessary or useful because it is more than what is needed" can be a bit redundant itself.
- 6. Describing someone as "incredibly amazing" is a circular definition since amazing already implies a high level of incredibility.
- 7. The circular definition of "verbose" as "using or expressed in more words than are needed" highlights the word's own trait within its definition.
- 8. Defining "ostentatious" as "characterized by vulgar or pretentious display" can be seen as a circular definition due to the subjective nature of terms like vulgar and pretentious.
- 9. Calling something "completely total" is an example of a circular definition since total already signifies completeness.
- 10. The circular definition of "cliché" as "a phrase or opinion that is overused and betrays a lack of original thought" emphasizes the very nature of clichés in its explanation.