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What is inspiration and why is it so important?

Understanding where inspiration comes from can help you to harness it when it strikes.

Inspiration can sometimes seem to be entirely out of our control. You can’t command your brain to come up with a great idea or an ideal solution to a problem, just as much as you can’t simply decide to feel creative one afternoon.

Feeling inspired in life and at work is an important part of sustaining motivation , and a lack of inspiration might be a clue that something else is going wrong. But while inspiration might be elusive at times, there are still plenty of strategies we can use to encourage it to strike more often.

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Let’s take a closer look at the concept of inspiration, where it comes from, and how it can benefit people in their daily lives. We’ll also share a few of our favorite inspirational quotes. But first, let’s try to define the word itself.

What is the definition of inspiration?

Inspiration can mean a few different things. It can describe the process of being overcome by a spontaneous urge to do something creative or important—that eureka moment when the way forward becomes suddenly obvious to you. Or it can describe the act of imparting that motivation to somebody else through your words and actions.

Coming from the Latin inspirare, meaning “to breathe into,” the word inspiration was originally used in a divine context to mean a kind of mystical animating force, a profound idea or truth revealed to an unsuspecting person. This is why inspiration is often said to “strike” out of nowhere, as though the feeling itself were a bolt of lightning from a heavenly muse.

But inspiration can also refer to the source of these new ideas, an intangible well of potent creativity that we can tap into with a little practice. This is the type of inspiration you can set out to find, rather than waiting for it to pop into your head as you’re lying awake in bed at 3 a.m.

Benefits of inspiration

Though research into the psychology of inspiration is relatively thin, most agree that inspiration is not a supernatural force. In everyday usage, “inspiration” is a broad label we apply to any number of unrelated mental processes. And far from anything as mysterious as divine intervention, the sensation of being inspired is generally understood to come from somewhere within ourselves.

The benefits of inspiration, however, are well understood by most people. Feeling inspired in your day-to-day life can play a key role in unlocking creativity, increasing productivity , and boosting happiness. People who regularly feel inspired at home and at work tend to be more engaged, more confident, and more motivated to solve problems and create new things.

Why is inspiration so important in life and work?

The peculiar feeling of being suddenly inspired by a new idea can seem random and unpredictable. But a sense of inspiration has been theorized to be the result of our minds processing new information in the context of things we already know, a lot like discovering a single jigsaw piece that connects two completed parts of a picture.

That means it’s possible to encourage inspiration through your intentional actions, rather than waiting around for it to happen spontaneously. For example, learning more about subjects unrelated to your area of expertise, while maintaining a curious attitude and an open mind, can help you increase the chances of recognizing patterns and links between seemingly disconnected concepts.

This happens to be why the notion of sudden inspiration is a persistent theme in popular mathematics. Mythologized discoveries don’t appear out of nowhere, but nearly always stem from brilliant minds connecting two disparate branches of math in previously inconceivable ways. To quote G.H. Hardy in A Mathematician’s Apology : “A mathematician, like a painter or poet, is a maker of patterns. If his patterns are more permanent than theirs, it is because they are made with ideas.”

No matter which field you are in, inspiration can kickstart our inherent ability to visualize a tricky problem from a novel perspective, or to think outside the box. The more flexible your style of thinking, the more receptive you are to inspiration and the better equipped you’ll be to counter unexpected problems with innovative solutions.

How to help yourself get inspired

Listen to music. When you’re focusing too hard on a problem or dilemma, it’s easy to fall into a repetitive mental routine of running through a list of the same potential solutions over and over again, and realizing that none of them will work. As a tool, the right music can help your mind disengage from these unhelpful loops and spot new ideas you might have otherwise overlooked.
Read a book. Literature is the most valuable source of knowledge we have, but as well as being stores of information, great books can also prompt us to think about situations from the perspective of another person or culture. The simple act of approaching a narrative from another angle is a form of empathetic thinking that can trigger moments of inspiration.
Get physical activity . Some studies have found that healthy and happy people experience inspiration more readily than those who feel anxious or stressed. Exercise is known to improve physical and mental health, and in addition to offering some space to clear your mind and process your thoughts, physical activity can help trigger the creative process.
Speak to people. Open-mindedness, honesty, and a willingness to share and listen to new perspectives can all play an important role when seeking out inspiration. Studies into where ideas come from have suggested that new ideas can be influenced by our social environments. That is to say, new ideas might be our subconscious minds remixing our friends’ ideas into something new, so strike up a conversation.
Watch a movie. Whether it’s an epic that leaves you feeling overwhelmed by the weight of your own emotional response, or it’s just Bridesmaids for the seventh time, watching a movie can place you in a focused state of mind and act as a starting point for the creative process.

Inspirational quotes

The best inspirational quotes are short nuggets of wisdom that inspire you to think about the world or yourself in a new way. Here are a few of our favorites:

“You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” —Maya Angelou

“Don’t spend time beating on a wall, hoping to transform it into a door.” —Coco Chanel

“The grass is greener where you water it.” —Neil Barringham

“We are what we pretend to be, so we must be careful about what we pretend to be.” —Kurt Vonnegut

“If you don’t turn your life into a story, you just become a part of someone else’s story.” —Terry Pratchett

“When money, rather than innovation or value, is your competitive advantage, that’s when things get boring and stagnant, and monopolies take root.” —Hank Green

Steve Hogarty is a writer and journalist based in London. He is the travel editor of City AM newspaper and the deputy editor of City AM Magazine , where his work focuses on technology, travel, and entertainment.

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Hero — Someone Who Inspires Me

Essays About Someone Who Inspires Me

My dad is my inspiration: a story from my life, my favorite person, my friend vie, made-to-order essay as fast as you need it.

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My Parents – The People I Admire The Most

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The people i consider to be my heroes, reason why my mother is the person i admire the most, my hero: elon musk, why my role model is my mother, me hero: forensic expert henry chang-yu lee, the life and accomplishments of mother teresa, my hero: larry page, bo jackson: an american hero and legend in sports, oprah winfrey as a nowadays hero, who is your role model: my father's influence on my life, why jesus inspires me and other poeple, an entrepreneur i admire the most, my hero: timothy john 'tim' berners-lee, emma watson as my role model, ellen degeneres – a person who inspires me, my hero: michelle obama, my role model at work, my favorite tv presenter and why i admire her, kobe bryant - an example of genuine leader, relevant topics.

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Writing Skills - Writing and the Pursuit of Inspiration

Writing skills -, writing and the pursuit of inspiration, writing skills writing and the pursuit of inspiration.

Writing Skills: Writing and the Pursuit of Inspiration

Lesson 1: writing and the pursuit of inspiration, writing and the pursuit of inspiration.

So you want to write, but you don’t feel inspired. Does that mean you should give up before you even start? Of course not!

Inspiration is more than just a sudden burst of good ideas. It’s a state of mind where ideas and possibilities seem to flow with ease, and you’re unafraid of trying something new. It’s the ideal head space that writers love to be in. But getting into that head space often requires time and effort.

Watch the video below to learn more about pursuing inspiration.

Hunting inspiration down

Inspiration isn’t always easy to find . For starters, it can be tricky to get in that inspired state of mind. You also can’t wait for random bursts of ideas if you want to write on a consistent basis. Otherwise, you may spend hours staring at a blank page, afraid to make a move.

A man sitting in a dark room, staring blankly at a laptop screen.

The solution is to hunt inspiration down yourself . Whether it’s a business email, an essay for school, or that novel you’ve always had in the back of your head, follow the words of author Louis L’Amour: “Start writing, no matter what. The water does not flow until the faucet is turned on.”

So start writing ! Write whether you have an idea already in mind or just a vague feeling that you want to explore. Get down every thought and possibility that comes to mind, then ask questions to develop them further. Follow every creative impulse that comes your way.

A woman writing a blog post on her computer.

Write now, edit later

Follow the principle of write now, edit later. That means you don’t worry about mistakes or saying too much or not having every detail ready at this point. Instead, concentrate on getting your writing brain active and finding the heart of your message.

Remember that your first draft does not have to be amazing . In fact, it’s the place to try any idea you want. Try to ignore the fear of writing something bad or boring, because it doesn't matter at this stage. You can dive into the editing process later when the first draft is done, and you have a better understanding of what you want to say.

The first draft of a speech, filled with handwritten edits and ideas.

The habits of pursuit

The more you pursue inspiration, the more often you’ll find it , even when you’re not writing. If you ever get stuck , get up and do something easy, like going for a walk. This will give your writing brain a chance to think over the problem in the background, which could lead to new perspectives and ideas.

Another great way to pursue inspiration is to establish a writing routine . Whether it’s writing 500 words a day, writing early in the morning, or scribbling on a legal pad, use whatever method helps your words flow. If you stay consistent, you should hopefully notice results in time.

When you make writing a regular part of your life, your chances of finding inspiration will increase . Much like how exercising regularly will get you physically fit, writing on a consistent basis will train your brain to seek out inspiration, and to crash through the fear of a blank page.

Writing is hard work

No matter how much you love it, writing is still hard work. It’ll take time and effort to make something worthwhile, and you may sit there wondering what to do next for a while.

But don’t give up . Keep pushing, keep experimenting, and keep writing, and go after inspiration with all your might.

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Essay Papers Writing Online

Exploring the art of essay writing – a collection of insights and reflections.

Essay writing is a craft that allows individuals to express their thoughts, ideas, and arguments in a structured and compelling manner. It is a form of art that requires creativity, critical thinking, and eloquence. Through the art of essay writing, writers have the power to influence and persuade their readers, sparking new perspectives and inspiring change.

When delving into the realm of essay writing, one explores the nuances of language, the intricacies of rhetoric, and the depth of analysis. Essays come in various forms, from persuasive to analytical, from narrative to argumentative. Each type of essay challenges the writer to convey their message effectively, captivating the audience and leaving a lasting impression.

Through this journey of exploration and discovery, writers discover new insights, hone their writing skills, and find inspiration in the world around them. The art of essay writing transcends mere academic requirements; it becomes a form of self-expression, a tool for communication, and a platform for sharing knowledge and ideas with others.

Unlocking the Secrets

Essay writing is often seen as a daunting task, but with the right approach and strategies, it can become a rewarding and enlightening experience. Here are some key secrets to unlocking your potential as an essay writer:

1. Understand the Prompt: Before you start writing, make sure you fully grasp the essay prompt. Take the time to analyze the requirements and expectations, so you can tailor your response accordingly.

2. Plan and Organize: A well-structured essay is a key to success. Create an outline to organize your thoughts and ideas before diving into the writing process. This will help you stay focused and ensure a logical flow of information.

3. Research Thoroughly: Good essays are backed by solid research. Take the time to gather relevant sources, quotes, and data to support your arguments and claims. Remember to cite your sources properly.

4. Develop a Strong Thesis: Your thesis statement should be clear, concise, and specific. It is the central idea of your essay, and all your arguments should revolve around it. Make sure your thesis is arguable and sets the tone for the rest of your paper.

5. Revise and Proofread: Don’t underestimate the power of revising and proofreading. Take the time to review your essay, fix any errors, and polish your writing. A well-edited essay will leave a lasting impression on your readers.

By following these secrets and incorporating them into your writing process, you can unlock the full potential of your essay writing skills and create compelling and impactful essays.

The Journey into Creativity

Embarking on the journey into creativity is an exhilarating experience that opens up a world of possibilities and inspiration. As you delve into the realm of essay writing, you have the opportunity to explore your unique perspective, voice, and style.

Creativity in writing is not just about coming up with innovative ideas or flashy phrases. It’s about approaching your topic from new angles, weaving together compelling narratives, and engaging your readers in thought-provoking ways.

Throughout this journey, you may encounter challenges and roadblocks, but these obstacles can be catalysts for creativity. Embrace the process of brainstorming, drafting, revising, and refining your essays. Allow yourself to experiment with different techniques, structures, and approaches.

Remember, creativity is a journey, not a destination. Stay curious, open-minded, and willing to push the boundaries of your writing. Let your imagination roam free and see where it takes you. The journey into creativity is an ongoing and rewarding adventure that will shape you as a writer and thinker.

Discovering the Power

In the realm of essay writing, one of the most powerful tools at your disposal is the ability to convey your thoughts and ideas with clarity and precision. By mastering the art of crafting well-structured and compelling essays, you open the door to a world of influence and impact.

Through the process of writing, you have the opportunity to delve deep into your subject matter, exploring its nuances and complexities. This journey of discovery not only enriches your own understanding but also allows you to share your insights with others, shaping their perspectives and sparking thought-provoking conversations.

As you hone your essay-writing skills, you tap into the power of words to inspire, persuade, and educate. Each sentence becomes a brushstroke on the canvas of your ideas, painting a vivid picture that captivates your readers and leaves a lasting impression.

By discovering the power of essay writing, you unlock a world of creativity and expression that knows no bounds. Embrace the journey, and let your words soar.

Unleashing Your Imagination

One way to unleash your imagination is to brainstorm and jot down all your ideas, no matter how wild or unconventional they may seem at first. By embracing the unexpected, you can discover unique angles and fresh insights that will make your essay stand out.

Inspiration Tip:

Take a walk in nature, listen to music, or read a book that sparks your curiosity. These activities can stimulate your imagination and help you see things from a new perspective.

Remember, the art of essay writing is not about following rules – it’s about letting your imagination run wild and expressing your ideas in a way that is uniquely yours. So, don’t be afraid to take risks, experiment with different writing styles, and explore the boundaries of your creativity. Unleash your imagination and watch your writing come to life!

Embracing the Craft

Essay writing is not just a task or an academic exercise; it is an art form that allows us to express our thoughts, ideas, and emotions in a structured and coherent manner. To truly excel in the art of essay writing, one must embrace the craft with passion, dedication, and creativity.

Embracing the craft of essay writing means approaching each piece with an open mind and a willingness to experiment with different styles, tones, and techniques. It involves honing your skills through practice, feedback, and continuous learning. Embracing the craft also requires a deep appreciation for language, storytelling, and the power of words to create impact and inspire change.

By embracing the craft of essay writing, you can transform your ideas into compelling narratives, persuasive arguments, and thought-provoking reflections. Whether you are writing for academic purposes, personal expression, or professional communication, embracing the craft will help you communicate effectively, connect with your audience, and leave a lasting impression.

Key Points:
1. Approach each essay with passion and dedication.
2. Experiment with different styles and techniques.
3. Hone your skills through practice and feedback.
4. Appreciate the power of language and storytelling.
5. Transform your ideas into compelling narratives.

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Expository Writing: Definition and Examples

Hannah Yang

What is expository writing, what is an expository paragraph, expository writing examples, how prowritingaid can help you with expository composition.

One of the most common types of writing is expository writing. Whether you’re a student taking an English class or a professional trying to communicate to others in your field, you’ll need to use expository writing in your day-to-day work.

So, what exactly does this term mean?

The short answer is that expository writing refers to any writing designed primarily to explain or instruct.

Read on to learn the definition of expository writing as well as some examples of what this type of writing can look like.

Before we look at examples of expository writing, let’s start with a quick definition of what this term actually means.

Expository Writing Definition

The term expository writing refers to any writing that’s designed to explain something. We use the word expository to describe any passage of writing that’s supposed to present information and help you understand it in an objective way.

Some common examples of expository writing include academic essays, textbooks, instructional guides, and news reports. Good expository writing should be factual, objective, and clear.

To better understand what this term means, think about the difference between a scientific article, a short story, and an advertisement.

The scientific article is considered expository writing because its primary purpose is to explain a particular topic in more detail. It presents data, analyzes what that data means, and focuses on the facts.

On the other hand, the short story isn’t considered expository writing, because its core purpose isn’t to explain or inform—instead, it’s probably trying to entertain you or to take you on a journey. Short stories are narrative writing.

Similarly, an advertisement isn’t expository writing because its core purpose isn’t to explain or inform—instead, it’s trying to persuade you to buy what it’s selling. Advertisements are persuasive writing.

Here’s a quick rundown of what expository essays should and shouldn’t do.

An expository essay should:

Teach the reader about a particular topic

Focus on the facts

Follow a clearly organized structure

Present information and details from credible sources

An expository essay should not:

Try to change the reader’s mind about something

Present the author’s personal opinions

Include made-up narratives or stories

Follow experimental or nonlinear structures

An expository paragraph is exactly what it sounds like—a paragraph of expository writing.

A well-written expository paragraph should follow a specific format to make it as clear and easy to read as possible. Most expository paragraphs do the following things:

Start with a topic sentence, which explains what the paragraph will be about

Then, include 3 – 5 body sentences that provide supporting details for the topic sentence

Finally, wrap things up with a closing sentence that summarizes what the paragraph has said

Writing an expository paragraph is a great way to practice expository writing. That’s because the paragraph follows the same structure as a more complex expository essay, just on a smaller scale.

Most expository essays should follow this format:

Start with an introductory paragraph that includes the thesis statement, which tells the reader the core statement of the essay

Then, include 3 – 5 body paragraphs that provide factual evidence to support the thesis statement

Finally, wrap things up with a concluding paragraph that summarizes what the body paragraphs and thesis statement said

You can see the similarities between the two formats. If you can write a fantastic expository paragraph, you’ll be well-prepared to move on to writing a full expository essay.

Example of Expository Paragraph

Here’s an example of an expository paragraph that follows the structure described above.

The leading cause of death in the United States is heart disease, which can be fatal if it leads to heart attack or cardiac arrest. Heart attacks occur when a blockage in the coronary artery prevents oxygenated blood from reaching the heart. Cardiac arrests occur when the heart stops pumping entirely, which prevents the patient from breathing normally. Both of these problems can be deadly, even in seemingly healthy people who don’t have noticeable risk factors. As a result, heart disease is an important problem that many doctors and scientists are researching.

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There are many ways you can present information in an expository essay. Here are four of the most popular ways, along with examples of each one.

Problem and Solution Essay

A problem and solution essay presents the reader with a problem and then considers possible solutions to that problem.

Here’s an example passage you might find in a problem and solution essay:

Among the many proposed solutions to rising carbon emissions, one promising possibility is carbon trapping. Scientists are figuring out how to pull carbon emissions out of the atmosphere and trap it in less harmful forms, such as by injecting carbon dioxide underground so it will turn to stone.

Compare and Contrast Essay

This type of essay takes two subjects and compares and contrasts them. It focuses on highlighting the differences and similarities between those two things.

Here’s an example passage of this type of expository writing:

Though country music and R&B music have very different sounds, they also share many similarities. For one thing, both types of music embody a specific cultural identity. For another, both genres trace their roots back to the 1920s, when the Victor Talking Machine Company signed singers from the American South.

Classification Essay

In a classification essay, you describe the categories within a certain group of things.

Here’s an example passage you might find in a classification essay:

There are three ways in which artificial intelligence might become stronger than humans in the future: high speed, high collective intelligence, and high quality. A speed AI would be able to perform calculations and experience the world much faster than humans. A collective intelligence, like a hive mind, would be able to break down a complex task into several parts and pursue them simultaneously. Finally, a quality AI would simply be able to solve more complex problems than humans could.

Process Essay

In a process essay, you give the reader the steps for completing a specific process. This is similar to a how-to guide or an instruction manual.

Here’s an example passage you might find in this type of expository writing:

Caramelize the chopped onions in a frying pan. When the onions have caramelized, mix in the bell peppers, mushrooms, and tomatoes and stir for 4 – 6 minutes or until all the ingredients have softened. If you want to add meat, you can add ground beef and cook for another 4 – 6 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Good expository writing should be easy to read. After all, the purpose of exposition is to explain things to your readers, and you won’t be able to accomplish that if they have trouble understanding your writing.

That’s why ProWritingAid can help you write an expository essay. The grammar checker can help you ensure your sentences flow well, you’re not missing any necessary punctuation, and all your words are precise and clear.

Good luck, and happy writing!

Hannah is a speculative fiction writer who loves all things strange and surreal. She holds a BA from Yale University and lives in Colorado. When she’s not busy writing, you can find her painting watercolors, playing her ukulele, or hiking in the Rockies. Follow her work on hannahyang.com or on Twitter at @hannahxyang.

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The internet can be a dark and, quite often, violent place for women — many of whom are subjected to trolling, harassment, and threats on a daily basis. But it can also be a truly wonderful place, one that provides free access to news, educational resources, entertainment, communication, and wealth of incredible writing — including these empowering essays by women you can read online right now . Written by Cecile Richards, Lindy West, Lady Gaga, and more, these essays are filled with inspiration and wisdom to guide you through your day.

For female readers, the online world can sometimes feel like a minefield, one that is littered with destructive words meant to tear women down or shut them up. But for famous authors and writers, beloved celebrities, and popular athletes, it can also serve as the perfect platform to share their empowering stories, which often include plenty of inspirational anecdotes and practical advice that makes the whole mess of the internet worth it.

Whether you’re looking for a bit of guidance in your own life, or hoping to inspire your friends with some sage advice from more experienced women, here are nine empowering essays you can read for free online right now .

"The Most Daring Women Don’t Always Make Headlines" by Cecile Richards

"Today, women across this country are doing her proud. The earth is shifting under the force of millions of women standing up for themselves, for each other, for their daughters and their mothers and sisters," writes the former president of Planned Parenthood Action Fund Cecile Richards in her inspiring piece about women and activism for Harper's Bazaar . "Women are no longer asking for permission. They’re just diving in and taking risks. They know we can’t afford to sit this one out."

Read the full essay here .

"Rebranding Motherhood" by Diksha Basu

"If anything, so far being a mother feels quite delightfully self-indulgent. I have a daughter in whom I can constantly look for and find little bits of myself or, better yet, improved bits of myself," writes Windfall author Dikashu Basu in a moving essay for The New York Times about redefining motherhood. "Recently a construction worker called out to me on the street in Lower Manhattan and I got my angry anti-catcalling face ready to respond but he very respectfully said, 'You have a beautiful daughter, ma’am.' My vanity now has two bodies within which to reside — the sacrifice looks more like narcissism from certain angles."

Read the full essay here.

"This Is Survival" by Aly Raisman

In a heartbreaking but incredibly powerful essay for The Players' Tribune , American gymnast Aly Raisman opens up about her experience with sexual abuse, and offers some words of encouragement to anyone else who has gone through the same thing. "I am not a victim. I am a survivor. The abuse does not define me, or anyone else who has been abused. This does not define the millions of those who’ve suffered sexual abuse," the two-time Olympian writes. "They are not victims, either. They are survivors. They are strong, they are brave, they are changing things so the next generation never has to go through what they did."

"What I Learned at War" by Tammy Duckworth

Senator Tammy Duckworth has often spoken out about her time serving in the U.S. army, including in this persuasive essay about the price of war and what it can teach us that she wrote for Politico. "That day, I lost both of my legs, but I was given a second chance at life," she writes, recounting her experience fighting in the Iraq War. "It’s a feeling that has helped to drive me in my second chance at service—no one should be left behind, and every American deserves another chance."

"The 'Perfect Body' Is a Lie. I Believed It For a Long Time and Let It Shrink My Life" by Lindy West

If you have read Lindy West's memoir Shrill , you know that she has a lot of incredibly insightful things to say fat acceptance and body positivity. In an essay for The Guardian, she shares some of them, saying "The 'perfect body' is a lie. I believed in it for a long time, and I let it shape my life, and shrink it – my real life, populated by my real body. Don’t let fiction tell you what to do. In the omnidirectional orgy gardens of Vlaxnoid, no one cares about your arm flab."

"Bring It On" by Ibtihaj Muhammad

The first Muslim American to medal in the Olympics, fencing champion Ibtihaj Muhammad opened up about what it is like to compete in an sport where so few people look like her. "One day, during a fifteen-hour flight to a training camp in Beijing, I arrived at a moment where I said enough is enough — I’d spent years fighting for every win, every opportunity, every ounce of respect on my path to becoming an Olympian, and I was no longer going to allow other people to affect how I perceived myself or restrict what I was capable of," she writes in Lenny Letter. "When people stared me down at a tournament, I didn’t know if it was a race thing or a religious thing or that they weren’t ready for change, but I finally realized: Why was that burden on me to figure out? I didn’t have the time to acquire their baggage or analyze why anyone wanted to make me feel inferior. I had a job to do on that team, and that job was winning a medal."

"Why It's So Important That CEOs Like Me Speak Out Against Trump" by Reshma Saujani

In an essay about corporate responsibility in the age of Trump by Reshma Saujani, the Girls Who Code founder and CEO reminds readers that individuals have a lot of power to enact change. "But if every American has the power to sway a CEO," she argues in a piece for Teen Vogue, "then every American quite literally has a chance to sway public opinion, to shape the way we talk and think and act on our values system — to change the way we treat our fellow Americans and those who come here seeking a better life for their families."

"Ava DuVernay on How to 'Pivot Towards Positivity' in Trying Times" by Ava DuVernay

There are few creatives as wise, or as giving when it comes to advice, as A Wrinkle in Time director Ava DuVernay. "These days I’m a lot less competitive, a lot less concerned about what other people do. I’m much more focused on the things that make me happy," she writes in an inspirational essay for InStyle. "I believe that good comes when you put out good, and so I just try to emanate joyful vibes. Why not? I’m not going to spend my day hating on someone else. I’ve got so many better and more joy-filled things to do."

"Portrait of a Lady" by Lady Gaga

In her 2016 essay on being a woman in the modern world, Lady Gaga opens up and offers a truly refreshing and inspiring perspective. "Being a lady today means being a fighter. It means being a survivor," she writes. "It means letting yourself be vulnerable and acknowledging your shame or that you're sad or you're angry. It takes great strength to do that."

Definition Essay Topics: The Best Selections

In the ever-evolving landscape of academic writing, the definition essay topic has emerged as a versatile and dynamic form of expression. However, what many may find surprising is that the roots of this genre trace back to ancient Greece, where philosophers like Socrates engaged in dialectical conversations to uncover the true essence of abstract concepts. These early philosophical dialogues laid the foundation for the modern definition essay, a genre that continues to thrive today, with topics ranging from profound metaphysical inquiries to the analysis of everyday concepts that shape our lives.

Definition Essay Topics: Short Description

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

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.

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.

Diving into Intriguing Definition Essay Topics

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!

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Send us your request and be sure that you’ll receive a definition essay on any topic of the highest quality within the set timeframe!Diving into Intriguing Definition Essay Topics

Extended Definition Essay Topics

Success: Beyond material wealth to personal fulfillment.
Freedom: Different perspectives on what it truly means.
Happiness: The varied interpretations across cultures.
Courage: More than the absence of fear.
Love: Romantic versus platonic definitions.
Family: Traditional and modern understandings.
Friendship: True friends versus acquaintances.
Justice: Legal justice versus social justice.
Beauty: Objective and subjective views.
Intelligence: Academic versus emotional intelligence.
Equality: Gender, racial, and economic equality.
Integrity: Personal and professional integrity.
Patriotism: National pride and its implications.
Ambition: Positive drive versus destructive obsession.
Leadership: Qualities that define a true leader.

Funny Definition Essay Topics

Procrastination: The art of doing nothing.
Hipster: What it means to be ironically cool.
Fashionista: Beyond a love for clothes.
FOMO: Fear of missing out on nothing.
Selfie: The modern self-portrait obsession.
Cat Lady: More than just owning cats.
Millennial: Stereotypes versus reality.
Dad Bod: The new standard of attractiveness?
Social Media Influencer: The new-age celebrity.
Binge-Watching: Modern-day addiction to TV series.
Foodie: More than just loving food.
Techie: The new-age geek.
Zombie: Beyond the horror movie creature.
Shopaholic: When shopping becomes a sport.
Clumsy: The art of unintentional comedy.

Society Definition Essay Topics

Class: Economic and social distinctions.
Culture: Shared values and practices.
Community: More than just living together.
Gender Roles: Traditional versus modern views.
Social Justice: A path towards equality.
Civic Duty: Responsibilities of citizens.
Human Rights: Universal rights and their implementation.
Social Media: Impact on human interaction.
Democracy: Beyond the political system.
Urbanization: Effects on lifestyle and society.
Globalization: Cultural and economic impacts.
Education: More than formal schooling.
Healthcare: Access and equity in society.
Migration: Movement of people and its effects.
Sustainability: Balancing progress and preservation.

Creative Definition Essay Topics

Magic: In literature and real life.
Imagination: The power of creative thinking.
Innovation: Beyond new inventions.
Art: Diverse forms and expressions.
Fiction: Blurring the lines between reality and imagination.
Dreams: Nighttime adventures or aspirations?
Adventure: More than physical journeys.
Fantasy: Worlds beyond our own.
Creativity: The essence of original thinking.
Storytelling: The art of sharing experiences.
Inspiration: Sources and effects on creativity.
Illusion: When things are not as they seem.
Wonder: Childlike awe in a complex world.
Legend: Myth versus historical fact.
Whimsy: Lighthearted and playful creativity.

Common Definition Essay Topics

Love: Different types and meanings.
Trust: Building and maintaining it.
Friendship: Characteristics of true friends.
Honesty: Importance in personal and professional life.
Respect: Mutual regard in relationships.
Happiness: Personal and societal views.
Fear: Psychological and physiological aspects.
Kindness: Small acts with big impacts.
Loyalty: In relationships and society.
Gratitude: Appreciation and its benefits.
Patience: Importance in everyday life.
Hard Work: The pathway to success.
Perseverance: Overcoming obstacles.
Wisdom: Knowledge applied in life.
Peace: Internal and external tranquility.

History Definition Essay Topics

Democracy: Evolution through the ages.
Revolution: Different types and their impacts.
Empire: Rise and fall of empires.
Colonialism: Historical perspectives and consequences.
Industrialization: Transformative periods in history.
Renaissance: Rebirth of art and science.
Feudalism: Medieval socio-economic structures.
Totalitarianism: 20th-century examples and definitions.
Enlightenment: Intellectual movement’s impact.
Slavery: Historical practices and abolition.
Nationalism: Formation of nation-states.
Cold War: Ideological conflict of the 20th century.
Imperialism: Motivations and outcomes.
Holocaust: Definition and historical context.
Civil Rights Movement: Struggle for equality in the 20th century.

Philosophy Definition Essay Topics

Existentialism: Philosophical exploration of existence.
Ethics: Theories of right and wrong.
Metaphysics: Nature of reality and being.
Aesthetics: Philosophy of beauty and art.
Epistemology: The study of knowledge.
Logic: Principles of valid reasoning.
Stoicism: Ancient philosophy of personal ethics.
Nihilism: Rejection of religious and moral principles.
Humanism: Emphasis on human values and potential.
Utilitarianism: The greatest good for the greatest number.
Deontology: Duty-based ethics.
Phenomenology: Study of structures of experience.
Pragmatism: Practical consequences in philosophical thought.
Dualism: Mind-body relationship.
Relativism: Concepts of truth and morality as relative.

How to Write a Definition Essay: 6 Simple Tips

When selecting topics for definition essay, keep these expert tips in mind for successful writing:

Choose Wisely : Opt for more informative essay topics that go beyond simple nouns or verbs like 'swimming' or 'necklace.' Focus on processes or concepts that offer depth.
Add Your Insight : Alongside official dictionary definitions, provide your personal interpretations of the terms. Maintain a balanced perspective, avoiding excessive subjectivity.
Real-Life Examples : Enhance comprehension by incorporating real-world examples that illustrate how the term is used in context.
Embrace Complexity : Select social issues topics with multiple meanings, such as beauty, fight, freedom, or rock, to enrich your analysis.
Skip the Mundane : Avoid discussing universal words like 'hi,' 'café,' or 'telephone' to ensure a more engaging essay.
Research Matters : While it's not a research paper, conduct some background research to uncover the term's origins, various meanings, and historical usage, making your essay more captivating.

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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Student Essay: The Power of Stories to Inspire Strong Leaders

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Maya S. is a Muslim, Egyptian and student athlete who has lived in Saudi Arabia for most of her life. She is 16 and a junior at the American International School of Riyadh, where she is enrolled in the International Baccalaureate program.

In this Student Essay of the Week, Maya talks about how building a platform for others to share their stories has helped her understand why welcoming diversity of thought and experience will make her a stronger, more empathetic leader.

Three steps forward and two steps back. That was my reality during the privilege walk.

In October 2018, I was selected along with 50 other high school students to attend a leadership trip to a farm outside Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. We believed that we were all going to learn about how to become leaders with strong voices. However, the trip took a completely unexpected and inspiring turn. Instead, we left knowing how to listen first and speak second.

At the farm, we participated in an activity called a privilege walk , where we were asked to step forward or backward in response to certain questions. From the responses, it became obvious that all of us were struggling with something that those around us knew nothing about.

I learned that the girl beside me once wondered where her next meal would come from. The girl beside her was afraid to leave the house at night because she had been assaulted. The boy to my left had been held at gunpoint. And the boy beside him had a mental disorder. This realization hit me hard. I was able to understand that although it’s impossible for us all to experience the same things, it is possible for us to try and listen to each other and understand each other’s differences. I began to appreciate the meaning of finding beauty in diversity. During that trip I learned that true leaders listen to the voices of others, and as a result they are able to enrich their own points of view.

“Living with anxiety is like feeling alive through the motions of life, but never freely living. It’s being aware of my surroundings, but lost in another world inside my head.”

During the summer of that year, someone I loved dearly was faced with medical issues, and my family began dealing with a lot of uncertainty. Even when it was all over, I felt lost and changed. I couldn’t explain it, but I wished that someone understood. I then began thinking of the people standing around me that day in Riyadh during the privilege walk, and everyone around the world like us. Did we all feel the same desire to be understood? How could we all feel seen and valued, regardless of our stories? I wanted to hear more about the stories of all those kids I met that day in line. I wanted to understand how we all ended up there, despite our different paths. I wanted to create something that would allow them to express their stories.

That summer, I started Voice of Change , a weblog that allows other teenagers to contribute writing that reflects the experiences that have shaped them. The first story I received was “Purpose,” from a girl struggling with depression. She wrote, “Purpose: a reason, a given, motivation , a point. We all live life because we have a purpose. We realize that there is a point, we have motivation and a reason to live. We look forward to things and create opportunities for ourselves. We see a future. Imagine living life feeling as though you have no purpose… That means no reason, no motivation, simply no point… the best way to describe this feeling is as if [you’re] dead. This feeling is depression.”

After I posted the article, which talked about how depression impacted the author’s life, I received comments, emails and texts from others saying that the article communicated what they needed to hear and couldn’t put into words. This initial response fueled the rest of my work. I began receiving other stories about challenging experiences, ranging from sexual assault and racial discrimination, to losing a loved one and struggling with body image. Here are a few powerful quotes from these articles:

“I’m not sure who or what I’m living for, but I’d never want to risk my family members feeling as I do right now. It’s okay that I’m suffering right now, because I have faith that it will pass, eventually it will.” – “Live On”

“I am not ignorant because I’m Arab. I’m not a terrorist because I’m Muslim. I am not a thug because I’m black. I am not who I am because of what you see on the news. I am who I am because of what I’ve been through, and what I have become.” – “Assume”

“Living with anxiety is like feeling alive through the motions of life, but never freely living. It’s being aware of my surroundings but lost in another world inside my head.” – “I Choose Life”

I see my Voice of Change journey as having so much to do with becoming a better leader. It has helped me to see clearly the type of leader I hope to become. I have developed a stronger perspective by understanding the voices and stories of others. I have become more empathetic to other people’s struggles, a quality I will need when I run my own business one day. You can’t understand your customers’ wants or your employees’ needs if you don’t listen and appreciate where they’re coming from. Also, Voice of Change has shown me how much our experiences shape us and contribute to how we see the world and solve problems. Each person offers a unique voice and a different perspective – all powerful and important in their own way.

Conversation Starters

What is empathy and why is it such an important leadership quality? How is empathy related to storytelling? Use the Related Links with this article if you need to better understand empathy.

How have your experiences shaped you? Share your story in the Comment section of this article.

Maya writes that she has come to appreciate “how much our experiences shape us and contribute to how we see the world and solve problems.” Diversity of thought is incredibly powerful in the business world. Why does it hold such value? How does it enrich the team dynamic and important outcomes?

6 comments on “ Student Essay: The Power of Stories to Inspire Strong Leaders ”

Hi Maya, Thank you for sharing your fantastic story with us. Being able to appreciate the people around you and, in first place, yourself is one of the major keys to success and, most importantly, happiness in life, at least according to my experience. We all come from different environments and experiences, the same ones which make us who we are, in our uniqueness and diversity, as you clearly and beautifully stated in your essay. Appreciation is one of those emotions, if that’s how we want to define it, I have learned to consider and embrace later in life, but it is surely the one all the rest comes down to: appreciation for life, appreciation for love from our beloved ones… Having dealt throughout life with friends who coped with depression and anxiety, I can say I have experienced the emotional upheaval that tends to follow this kind of acknowledgements. It gives you a completely different perspective on the world, on the people that surround you and on the way you look at your very own life. On the other hand, I’ve been lucky enough to feel the wonderful sense of relief and joy which comes after helping this people, which taught me the value of the word, indeed, appreciation. In the same way I’ve been able to help my dearest friends deal with these horrible feelings and find a way out of them, I find what you have done with this very same individuals awesome: not only giving them a voice through the blog, but giving their peers the chance to find sympathy and reassurance in their words. Keep it up! And take care.

Sonder – n. The realization that each random passerby is living a life as vivid and complex as your own—populated with their own ambitions, friends, routines, worries and inherited craziness (The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows).

I believe that sonder, a short and simple made-up word to describe a complex feeling, perfectly captures the spirit of Maya and her article. Maya realized the complexity of the lives of those around her, that every stranger on the leadership trip had their own unique story to tell, filled with their personal struggles. She reaches the conclusion that “each person offers a unique voice and a different perspective – all powerful and important in their own way.”

Sonder, and more broadly, empathy, is a crucial element of being a good leader. I had my own moment of sonder last summer when I had the opportunity to volunteer at my local Chinese senior center. I started volunteering there because I had to fill my school’s requirement for service hours but ended up gaining much more out of it than that. At first, I was wary of taking on the job because my Chinese conversational skills were acceptable at best and rudimentary at worst. However, I quickly found that the seniors were very welcoming and were just happy that someone was willing to sacrifice their time to help out. I performed tasks such as preparing and serving food as well as helped teach ESL and citizenship classes. I learned about the hard work ethic of the workers and volunteers around me while washing apples. I learned about the amiability and habits of the seniors in the lunchroom. There would always be those in the back table playing cards, the younger seniors chatting in the front, and the seasoned mahjong players upstairs. I even had the chance to hear some of their rich stories, stories of their journeys of emigrating from communist China, stories of their successful children, stories of their war experiences, and stories of their hope in America. I truly understood that these seniors, whom I would not have given a second glance on the street, lived such deep and meaningful lives, each of which would be a thrilling standalone novel.

Just like Maya learned to understand those from different backgrounds, I was able to empathize with these seniors and develop an appreciation for their experiences. We should all have empathy for each other in this world full of division and hatred. Sonder helps us have that empathy not only with those close to us but with everyone around us.

When I became the youngest Student Council President of my school, my idea of a strong leader was someone who could command and lead a group of people with total authority the way they like it. So, that’s what I tried to do during my early days as a leader. I thought I would be a strong leader by commanding the student council and demonstrating my full authority over the rest. But after the first month, like Maya, the experience of being a leader took a completely unexpected and inspiring turn. I learned, like Maya, that you have to listen first and speak second. It is by listening to others that makes you a stronger leader because it is easier to command and display your authority. But it is harder to swallow your pride and listen to others when their opinions or stories differ from yours.

Therefore, in the Student Council that I am in, I launched an initiative called “Listen Monday” with the purpose of listening to everyone’s opinions and views in the student council and utilizing them for the betterment of the school.

By understanding the voices of others it has helped me develop a better perspective. I have become more empathetic to others. Listening to others has allowed me to see the full picture that I have never seen. And because I see the bigger picture, I realized that other’s experiences can help shape how I see the world and solve problems. As Maya said, each person offers a unique voice and a different perspective, all-powerful and important in their own way.

I want to thank Maya for inspiring me.

I want to thank Maya for inspiring me to become a better leader.

Hello L Dau K!

Thank you for sharing your experience and lessons as a student council president. Listening to your implementation of listening Mondays has brought me back to a time when I was the storyteller, pouring my life out, not to a student council president, but to my mother.

Before the story begins, I must tell you about my mother. She is a very successful corporate leader of hundreds of people. Of course, when it comes to life, she’s never lost her footing when it comes to parenting. Her dogma for me was always the same as that for her employees. She required me to write a time schedule and reflect on life every day and report my academic progress to her with a PowerPoint presentation every week. Similar to your listening Mondays, but coerced. Of course, these rules also apply to her employees. I argued with her countless times, berating her for treating me, at the time, a 12-year-old, as her employee. Perhaps you have already begun to detest my mother’s parenting philosophy, or that she is just another derelict mother who neglects her children’s emotional needs to give her career 100%. But she was a mother for the first time, and I as her oldest child witnessed her growth and how she became a leader, both to her employees and to me.

Where should I begin my story with this leader? As I counted the episodes that flashed through my mind, neither the long conversation in the evening breeze nor the laughing conversation in the dark living room seemed like the most appropriate beginning of the story. Puzzled, I put down my thoughts and sat down to recall the beginning of our conversations. There’s no longer nameless fear and tension when she approaches me, dreading to hear what she has to say. Instead, I always walked up to her when I found her alone, and the dialogue always began with a sigh. I told her many stories about young love, friends, hobbies, and self-reflection, all parts of me that I was reluctant to reveal in PowerPoints. She is busy all day but never said no when I started a conversation. I could feel that she valued every part of our communication, regardless of how nonsensical it was, taking it wholeheartedly. She would sit down and listen to every word I had to say, and she would take to heart every hint of emotion I tried to convey. She did her best to understand my passions, cater to my needs, and embrace my sentiments. And that’s one of the most valuable lessons she’s taught me as a leader.

My mother’s growth as a leader came naturally to her as she listened to every ebullient story and every heart-wrenching sob. She did what many leaders, even in family relationships, fail to do: give the most attention to her children and subordinates, dwelling on their stories, bringing herself into their emotions, and living their experiences. Simply receiving a comment differentiates from understanding the root of their feedback. Through sharing stories with my mother, as my thoughts became words and leaped out of my mouth, my thoughts received a carrier. The stories I told were imparted with meaning through the process of communication. These words made me who I am and marked every footprint of mine. Not only giving her a chance to guide me but giving me a chance to recourse, bonding two unknown souls by building emotional bridges rather than giving ice-cold PowerPoint presentations. I myself am walking on those bridges, and I will be learning to build them up. Through open communication, we can build bridges high enough to see the world from a bigger view, see the tips of Mt. Everest, hear the mumbles of rhinoceros and vaquitas, and unveil a side of the world that we have never seen before.

In her essay “The Power of Stories to Inspire Strong Leaders”, Maya S. quotes “I was able to understand that although it’s impossible for us to all experience the same things, it is possible for us to try and listen to each other and understand each other’s differences. I began to appreciate the meaning of finding beauty in diversity. During that trip I learned that true leaders listen to the voices of others, and as a result they are able to enrich their own points of view.” This quote taught me that in order to be understood, one must learn to understand.

As an international student living in the states, my school days were certainly different from most of my classmates. There were a lot more plane rides, more hours of memorizing English vocabulary, and less people that paid attention to the struggles I went through. It was hard to focus on the upside of life when I knew that my comfort zone was about 6800 miles away. I felt like I was drowning in my own world, and was unsure of what I needed to do to get out of it.

As time passed, I did learn to embrace my new home. That started with a simple step: Learning about how people here lived. I added Kendrick Lamar and Olivia Rodrigo to my playlist, started to watch the NBA, and reached out for corrections when I didn’t recognize an English word. As I began to understand and appreciate what was around me, it was way easier to fit in. My struggles started to pay off as I received multiple honors and varsity MVP awards. Apart from Academics, I also became much more active in the social circle. I learned more about life here from my new friends, and also taught them some parts of life that I left behind back in Korea. After these changes, I could proudly say that I’m definitely leading my own life.

Maya’s story of the privilege walk reminded me of the change in my perspective before and after trying to understand American culture. At first I was hesitant in getting to know the new environment, but now I see the hidden value of entirely different customs, just like how Maya was able to understand the children with more depth. Furthermore, something Maya did that I greatly appreciate is that she didn’t just stop from enlightenment and took action to advocate for her beliefs. I believe that Maya’s propulsion of creating the “Voice of Change” weblog exemplifies what leaders do to promote their voice to the world. As a person aspiring to be a global leader and a businessman, I was greatly inspired by Maya’s quotes of insight and her action to spread her words.

Our world today is heavily interconnected, and the effects of collaborating across diverse backgrounds have never been more apparent. As I reflect on Maya’s quote and my own understanding, I am reminded that true leaders are distinguished by their ability to seek harmony in differences. My journey from a foreign student drowning in isolation to a confident participant in a global community underscores the transformative power of understanding others to be understood. Of course there are still customs that I cannot resonate with, like pineapple on pizza. But as I step forward into a world of connections and communications, I carry with me the invaluable lesson that true understanding is the cornerstone of meaningful process.

Using Variety to Support Writing in Middle School

Middle school students may get inspired about writing if they’re offered exercises that support different methods of expression.

Photo of middle school student taking notes

Teachers and students might have a range of feelings about writing instruction, from excitement to anxiety. The purpose of this post is to share how I’ve approached writing across contexts and found joy in using writing as a regular part of classroom instruction. Hopefully, these ideas will help middle school teachers find more and more opportunities to have students respond, naturally building writing as part of instruction and lessening the feeling of burden that sometimes comes with composing.

We know that reading is an invisible process unless we have students share out loud from the page. So, how do we know what they’re thinking and how they’re processing what they’re reading about in class? Aside from discussion, which can often allow students to fly under the radar, writing is the only way I know to make this process visible.

In my class, we use writing and composing to talk about how students can explore ideas and use language to build toward deeper thinking.

Drawings and Digital Composing With Adolescent Readers

Often, definitions come first. What do I mean when I say the word writing ? Some might automatically think of the essay form—the routine five-paragraph (or more) approach. While essays can be fruitful expressions of thought, they aren’t necessarily the highest form of communication.

So, what is? Maybe writing that fits the contexts and circumstances that the author needs. Maybe we should first broaden composition by thinking about how writing can be redefined and used with middle school students. This way of writing means that a variety of exercises—short jotting or a long-form response, a brief sketch note or a full digital presentation—can be part of writing and composing.

When it comes to writing, approximations do indeed count in terms of literacy. The first draft is still a draft, and brainstorming or forming ideas is a key part of the process. If we only valued writing that existed perfectly from the first pen stroke or keystroke, not many texts would exist.

I have tried a fairly simple way of connecting reading and writing instruction through the use of illustration and visualizing. First, I introduce three to five vocabulary words to my students. Next, we define these words together and talk about them. Then, I ask students to do something creative.

Since we’ve talked about the vocabulary words and what they mean, I ask students to draw or describe a character who might use this word as their namesake. (Pixar’s Inside Out does this quite well with emotions.)

For students who crave opportunities to express their ideas in art, this is ideal. It’s also an invitation for students who want to write and compose using words—and they often find more words to explain the character they have in mind as they explore the concept related to the vocabulary word they choose.

Sentence Stems and Mentor Texts with Middle Grades

From print to digital, a writing-centered curriculum for the middle years can include expanding on how students begin to build complex texts and write for a variety of audiences. In fact, I believe it really should. The first time I wrote a dissertation (which is also, according to my plans, the only time I’ll write one ), I looked at several examples of dissertations, and I read the work of my doctoral committee members.

Mentor texts are essential for helping writers find their way through a new kind of writing and expand their strengths. When I use sentence stems and mentor texts, it’s an opportunity to read and analyze with students, and it’s a chance to get so creative with my own response that students would be hard-pressed to use it exactly in their own work. The mentor text is a guide and a model, after all, and not something that should be replicated word for word.

For more on mentor texts, I highly recommend Write Like This , by Kelly Gallagher. Gallagher has a variety of resources for reading and writing on his website, and I also had the chance to talk with him last year on a podcast about the value of mentor texts .

By helping students expand their writing repertoires, teachers demonstrate the “why” of writing along with the “how.” Writing doesn’t exist in a vacuum and isn’t simply something done at school just because—it’s a vital practice and is part of professional and personal purpose. Exploring our voice and story helps us remember what is important and true, and it also helps us process difficult questions and experiences.

Moving to Sophistication

From this initial work with illustrations and digital tools, as well as mentor texts, students can engage in sophistication—a more detailed mentorship practice with developing complex ideas, evaluating perspectives, and exploring nuances. In a recent lesson, I worked with students to explore what sophistication means.

This was no easy task. We spent months reading a variety of written works, from poems to essays. We wrote and practiced together. As a final exercise, we worked together to compose a fairly simple definition of democracy. We did this using knowledge from social studies classes that the students were taking at the same time ( especially civic literacy ) and artificial intelligence (AI) tools. We co-composed this basic definition, and then I asked students to think of examples from history and from their lives to add to the definition.

What was it about democracy that stood out to my students? As we crafted together, we discovered that the worldviews that my students carried with them could not easily be replicated by AI. My students saw that their understanding of government and liberty went beyond the definition and included personal examples. By building upon student approximations, using a variety of tools, and continuing to center writing as a regular and expected part of the classroom experience across content areas, we can help students explore these nuances and practice part of the joy of craft—writing and composing with meaningful purposes.

Essay on My Inspiration

Students are often asked to write an essay on My Inspiration in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on My Inspiration

Introduction.

Inspiration is a driving force that encourages us to achieve our goals. My greatest inspiration is my mother.

Her Strength

Despite facing many hurdles, she never gives up. Her strength and resilience inspire me to be strong and never lose hope.

Her Love for Learning

My mother’s love for learning has always motivated me to pursue my interests and never stop learning.

Also check:

250 Words Essay on My Inspiration

In the journey of life, we encounter numerous individuals, but only a select few leave an indelible impact. For me, that person is my high school physics teacher, Mrs. Smith, who has been my inspiration.

The Beacon of Knowledge

Mrs. Smith was not just a teacher; she was a beacon of knowledge. Her passion for physics was infectious. She had a knack for transforming complex theories into simple, understandable concepts. It was not just her academic prowess that inspired me, but her dedication towards the subject and her students.

Instilling Perseverance

She taught me that success is not an overnight phenomenon. It requires patience, hard work, and perseverance. Mrs. Smith had an unwavering belief in my capabilities, even at times when I doubted myself. This instilled in me a sense of self-confidence and resilience, a trait that has been instrumental in my personal and professional life.

Encouraging Curiosity

In conclusion, Mrs. Smith’s influence extends beyond the realm of academics. She has shaped my perspective on life, instilled resilience, and ignited a thirst for knowledge. Her teachings are not just lessons in physics, but lessons in life. She is my inspiration, a guiding light that continues to illuminate my path.

500 Words Essay on My Inspiration

My inspiration, much like the compass that guides a lost traveler, has been the driving force behind my journey of self-discovery and personal growth. This inspirational figure is none other than Elon Musk, the visionary entrepreneur and the force behind companies like SpaceX and Tesla. His innovative thinking, relentless pursuit of his dreams, and resilience in the face of adversity have left an indelible mark on my psyche.

Elon Musk: The Visionary

Musk’s vision for a sustainable future and multi-planetary human existence is not only bold but also revolutionary. He dares to dream what most people would consider impossible, and this audaciousness is what sets him apart. His belief in the power of technology to solve critical human challenges is infectious. Musk’s visionary thinking has inspired me to think beyond the conventional, to question the status quo, and to imagine a future that aligns with the principles of sustainability and technological advancement.

Relentless Pursuit of Dreams

Resilience in the face of adversity.

Perhaps the most inspiring aspect of Musk’s journey is his resilience. He has faced numerous setbacks, both personal and professional, but has always bounced back stronger. His ability to maintain his optimism and to keep pushing forward, despite the setbacks, is a testament to his strength of character. This resilience has shown me that failure is not the end but rather a stepping stone towards success. It has taught me to view challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities for growth.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

Happy studying!

More From Forbes

7 powerful characteristics of a truly inspirational leader.

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Inspirational leaders attract and engage others through their words, actions and beliefs.

The ability to inspire is one of the single most important leadership skills that separates great leaders from average ones. While there are plenty of admirable bosses, there are only a handful of leaders who are able to infuse energy, passion and connection into their actions and behaviors. Coupled with a clear vision, mission and commitment to integrity that guides them in everything they do to make the world a better place.

Oprah, Michelle Obama and Michael Jordan are some famously known altruistic role models who continue to inspire people around the globe. Dr. Alyn Waller, pastor of Enon Tabernacle Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, shared “when you’re an inspirational leader, you're able to tell people and explain to them what it is that you are doing and where you are going, and it makes them want to go with you.”

Data gathered by Harvard Business School from nearly 50,000 leaders learned “the ability to inspire creates the highest levels of employee engagement and commitment.” Further research conducted by Bain found “inspired employees are twice as productive as satisfied employees.” As a result, companies experience 21% greater profitability , a 41% reduction in absenteeism and 59% less turnover.

Here are seven powerful characteristics that create truly inspirational leaders.

Commitment To Values

Inspirational leaders are value-driven leading from a deep sense of purpose and responsibility to create positive change. They have a clear understanding of what their values are and don’t cave under pressure in situations where they’d need to sacrifice their values to achieve a result. This might not always make them popular and despite the hatred they receive, inspirational leaders recognize being ethical isn’t always easy, but it’s right.

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Regardless of what the popular opinion is, inspirational leaders stand up for what’s right and advocate against injustice. They act with integrity because they know employees are always watching and every action matters. For this reason, they stay true to their values and embed them in everything they do. Dr. Waller added “an inspirational leader embodies the principles of the very thing that they’re trying to lead.”

Invested In Personal Development

In order to continue growing, leaders understand the importance of investing in their development. Liz Brown, founder of Sleeping Lucid , asserted “inspirational leaders have a strong sense of self and are aware of their limits.” For this reason, they acknowledge their weaknesses and are always seeking feedback to hone their skills. They know they’re not the smartest person in the room and they welcome that because it keeps them striving to improve. As such, they view every opportunity, positive or negative, as one from which they can learn.

Radiate Authenticity

Leaders are able to connect with others because they are open about sharing their struggles, stories and journey of what it took for them to get to where they are today. They recognize their differences is what makes them unique. Authenticity inspires authenticity. Who they are at work is who they are at home, in the community and out with their friends. They don’t wear different masks and treat everyone with respect and dignity.

Ethan Taub, CEO of Goalry and Loanry said “being a leader means having the strength to be different and proud. Being who you are in a world where there is only one box takes courage, but people need that, especially in this day and age. Being able to help everyone understand the world and their place is something only few do, but many possess.”

Skillful Communicators

Not all communication is verbal and comes in many forms. For example, active listening, ignoring distractions and making eye contact shows others they’re valued. Body language alone communicates and strengthens trust and honesty. Patti Wood, MA, body language and communication expert , shared inspirational leaders are great at matching and mirroring the nonverbal cues and emotion of the room so others feel valued and understood.

When it comes to having difficult conversations, they know how to effectively communicate negative feedback in a way that doesn’t make the employee disengage. When someone on their team doesn’t meet their goals, they take the time to sit down and get to the root cause. From there, they work with the employee to figure out how they can better support the employee and give them the tools needed to be successful.

Encourage Unity

Collaboration is an essential ingredient to an engaged and thriving team. Inspirational leaders know the strengths and weaknesses of their team. This allows them to find ways to encourage unity through peer-to-peer mentorship, team projects or cross training. Unity is crucial to achieving success otherwise, teams become siloed. Liz Armbruester, senior vice president of global compliance at Avalara , expressed “nothing is more destructive for a team than a leader who is unwilling to collaborate.”

Inspirational leaders are committed and motivated by the success of their team. Disruption and innovation is the result of fostering an environment where individuals can come together to share their experiences, knowledge, opinion and ideas. Embracing collaboration helps individuals learn from one another while pushing them outside their comfort zone to achieve great things. In turn, employees gain more confidence in their abilities and want to take on more.

Approachable And Inclusive

Instead of leading with emotions or fear-based tactics to drive results, they focus on cultivating an environment that makes their employees feel comfortable coming and talking to them. Approachable and inclusive leaders listen more than they speak, value diversity, welcome mistakes, reward originality and appreciate the unique differences of others. Varying levels of working styles and personalities can create conflict and a disconnected team. Inspirational leaders know how vital it is to ensure each individual is treated fairly and respectfully, feels a sense of belonging and is psychologically safe. Therefore, creating a strong and inclusive team culture.

Creating an inclusive culture focuses on the team as a collective instead of taking the credit of others. Anton Smith, director, outreach and engagement, shared his boss Dr. Terrell Strayhorn, president and CEO of Do Good Work Consulting , “is very inclusive and we never hear him say “I, me, mine” because he’s always using “us, we, our.” Smith added, “that motivates us to do our best because we know we’re included and part of the company.”

Embrace Vulnerability And Risk

Taking risks is an essential part of leadership. Rosa Parks, Henry Ford and Elon Musk are a few leaders who have made a difference in this world by taking a courageous risk without the guarantee of it being successful. As Thomas Jefferson once famously said, “with great risk comes great reward.” Even if things don’t go as planned, inspirational leaders use the lessons of their rejections and failures to pivot their strategy and teach others what they’ve learned. Likewise, they’re not afraid to take ownership for their mistakes reminding employees they’re human. Their optimism and passion to achieve their vision demonstrates that there’s always a solution even if it requires some set backs and new plans.

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Motivation Essay for Students and Children

500+ words essay on motivation.

Everyone suggests other than the person lack motivation, or directly suggests the person remain motivated. But, no one ever tells what is the motivation of how one can stay motivated. Motivation means to face the obstacle and find an inspiration that helps you to go through tough times. In addition, it helps you to move further in life.

Meaning of Motivation

Motivation is something that cannot be understood with words but with practice. It means to be moved by something so strongly that it becomes an inspiration for you. Furthermore, it is a discipline that helps you to achieve your life goals and also helps to be successful in life .

Besides, it the most common practice that everyone does whether it is your boss in office or a school teacher or a university professor everyone motivates others in a way or other.

Role of Motivation

It is a strong tool that helps to get ahead in life. For being motivated we need a driving tool or goal that keeps us motivated and moves forward. Also, it helps in being progressive both physically and mentally.

Moreover, your goal does not be to big and long term they can be small and empowering. Furthermore, you need the right mindset to be motivated.

Besides, you need to push your self towards your goal no one other than you can push your limit. Also, you should be willing to leave your comfort zone because your true potential is going to revel when you leave your comfort zone.

Types of Motivation

Although there are various types of motivation according to me there are generally two types of motivation that are self- motivation and motivation by others.

Self-motivation- It refers to the power of someone to stay motivated without the influence of other situations and people. Furthermore, self-motivated people always find a way to reason and strength to complete a task. Also, they do not need other people to encourage them to perform a challenging task.

Motivation by others- This motivation requires help from others as the person is not able to maintain a self-motivated state. In this, a person requires encouragement from others. Also, he needs to listen to motivational speeches, a strong goal and most importantly and inspiration.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Importance of Motivation

Motivation is very important for the overall development of the personality and mind of the people. It also puts a person in action and in a competitive state. Furthermore, it improves efficiency and desire to achieve the goal. It leads to stability and improvement in work.

Above all, it satisfies a person’s needs and to achieve his/her goal. It helps the person to fight his negative attitude. The person also tries to come out of his/her comfort zone so that she/ he can achieve the goal.

To conclude, motivation is one of the key elements that help a person to be successful. A motivated person tries to push his limits and always tries to improve his performance day by day. Also, the person always gives her/his best no matter what the task is. Besides, the person always tries to remain progressive and dedicated to her/his goals.

FAQs about Motivation Essay

Q.1 Define what is motivation fit. A.1 This refers to a psychological phenomenon in which a person assumes or expects something from the job or life but gets different results other than his expectations. In a profession, it is a primary criterion for determining if the person will stay or leave the job.

Q.2 List some best motivators. A.2 some of the best motivators are:

Inspiration
Fear of failure
Power of Rejection
Don’t pity your self
Be assertive
Stay among positive and motivated people
Be calm and visionary

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Definition of inspiring

breathtaking
electrifying
exhilarating
exhilarative
galvanizing
hair-raising
heart-stopping
intoxicating
mind-bending
mind-blowing
mind-boggling
rip-roaring
stimulating

Examples of inspiring in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'inspiring.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

1717, in the meaning defined above

Dictionary Entries Near inspiring

Cite this entry.

“Inspiring.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inspiring. Accessed 18 Jun. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on inspiring

Nglish: Translation of inspiring for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of inspiring for Arabic Speakers

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An inspiring life remembered

By Kevin Carter

W hen you enter the newly dedicated Pava Marie LaPere Center for Entrepreneurship , you're greeted by a quote on Pava's plaque:

Sometimes the only qualification you have to build something is the fact that you are the one who's willing to build it.

That hard-earned insight came from a TEDx Talk Pava, A&S '19, gave during her senior year, titled "Forget About Your Life Plan," in the context of her starting a student-run startup incubator called the Hatchery. Just before she delivered that line, Pava alluded to her first for-profit venture that never quite made it off the ground. She had received a $10,000 grant her sophomore year, courtesy of the Ralph S. O'Connor Fund—the first funding opportunity Hopkins offered that was geared toward undergrad entrepreneurs—and ended up returning $9,500 of it to the university, winding down operations after buying only a dozen web domains.

Her perceived failure led to severe impostor syndrome. She remarked in her talk that she "had absolutely, utterly failed, and now it was my job to teach other students how to not do that."

I would argue that Pava didn't fail. Her startup? Absolutely, it failed to even launch for myriad reasons that Pava could (and would) tell you all about. But Pava the entrepreneur? She gained invaluable experience about how to take your lumps as an intrepid founder and grow from your inevitable mistakes. Pava succeeded because the primary goal of a university entrepreneurship center should not be to grow businesses but to cultivate entrepreneurs. It should foster the conditions to empower a student to take a leap of faith and should they fall, they're caught by the safety net of their diploma.

This is the role in which I first came to know the force known as Pava LaPere.

I joined the staff of FastForward U —Hopkins' first official entrepreneurship center—in fall 2017, right as it readied to launch. I feel compelled to add the caveat "official" because Pava undoubtedly built the first unofficial entrepreneurship center through her nonprofit TCO Labs (short for "The Crazy Ones," alluding to an iconic Steve Jobs quote) and programs like the Hatchery. Her tenacity in championing a hub for student entrepreneurs directly led to the creation of this physical space that now bears her name.

Image credit : Will Kirk / Johns Hopkins University

After graduation, Pava and FastForward U joined forces. In fall 2019, we architected a two-track accelerator program—called Spark and Fuel—that was inspired by both the successes of the Hatchery and the educational gaps that existed within the O'Connor Fund structure. Throughout the past five years, hundreds of students spanning every school at Hopkins benefited from the foundational knowledge and funding derived from these programs. Whether they flew or fell, students were at least able to make the leap.

Pava had many natural gifts that equipped her to be a prolific entrepreneur. Perhaps the one that served her most was a proclivity toward taking action in the face of uncertainty.

In late March 2020, when most of the country was sitting on the couch eating ice cream and watching Tiger King —you know, doing our part—Pava sprang into action. She recruited me and a few others to stand up a scrappy initiative called Bmore Baskets, which supported Baltimore-based small businesses that were impacted by COVID-19-related closures by bundling local products into themed gift baskets. We generated over $10,000 in direct sales for the small business community that Pava loved during a critical time and helped highlight locally crafted goods (Pava's favorites included Mount Royal Soaps and Cajou Creamery).

Later that summer, just a couple of weeks after I had left my position at Hopkins, Pava FaceTimed me early one morning.

"Hey Kevin … you know I'm not crazy, right?" she asked me with a wry smile. We both knew that wasn't entirely true.

She asked me to pick her up so we could visit a building and meet friends she had just met the day before. She proceeded to take me to a converted parish hall in Baltimore's Upper Fell's Point neighborhood and pitched turning it into a co-living accelerator program to help entrepreneurs build community and companies during the pandemic. A few days later, we became co-founders of Emergence Baltimore. And less than two months from that pitch, we had entrepreneurs paying us to live and work in that space. I still have no idea how that happened other than simply "Pava."

On top of Bmore Baskets and Emergence Baltimore, Pava was building the company that turned out to be her life's work— EcoMap Technologies . I witnessed her pull multiple all-nighters each week during fall 2020 in order to keep up with the rapid growth. Pava's perseverance was unparalleled. There were intense sprints where she would type until she couldn't feel her fingers, then throw on a brace, take some ibuprofen, and keep typing until sunrise. This was how I learned that people in their 20s could actually develop arthritis.

But as much as Pava's entrepreneurial feats can be viewed as superhuman, it's important to remember that she was so very human. Toward the end of 2020, she confided in me that she was at her breaking point trying to juggle all her ventures and couldn't do it all. We made the decision to wind down Bmore Baskets and not run another cohort of Emergence.

From then on, Pava dedicated much of her time to building EcoMap into the company it is today. She recruited me to be director of business development (a better title might have been director of a little bit of everything in the early days) and—again—we began to build together.

Now we're all tasked with moving forward in a world without Pava. Her loss has left an unfillable void, but Pava's legacy of action has left a permanent impression on all who knew her. Pava was the paragon of the Woman in the Arena, setting an example for student (and all) entrepreneurs simply by continuing to build her own ventures day in, day out.

So, when Hopkins students walk into the Pava Center, whether it's next week or decades down the road, my hope is that they see that quote on her plaque, shake off whatever impostor syndrome they might be feeling, and just start building. I can think of no greater way to honor Pava's legacy.

Kevin Carter is the director of business development for EcoMap Technologies, a Baltimore-based startup co-founded by Pava LaPere, A&S '19. He previously worked as a student program manager for Johns Hopkins Technology Ventures.

Posted in Voices+Opinion

'Nonstop, relentless, inspiring'

A group gathers for a photo outside the newly dedicated Pava Marie LaPere Center for Entrepreneurship, formerly FastForward U

Entrepreneurship hub renamed to honor Pava LaPere

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How to Write a Definition Essay: Structure, Outline, Samples

Updated 15 Feb 2024

Learn the elements, outline, and logic behind a definition essay. Explore different types of definitions and their functions. Get tips on writing a solid essay, avoiding common mistakes, and crafting a strong thesis statement. Find inspiration and ideas through definition essay example.

So what is a definition essay ? As the name suggests, a definition essay is an essay that explains in detail a certain term or concept. However, instead of being limited to a simple dictionary definition, which normally takes a few phrases, such an essay contains an extended definition that includes additional details, such as examples, descriptions, an analysis of this term and other related ones, etc. Importantly, such essays present your personal opinion about corresponding concepts.

Knowing how to write a definition essay requires a good understanding of the required elements, outline, structure, logic as described below. These essays are important since they require integration of a few interpretations on the same concepts, making clear distinctions and generalizations, providing personal interpretations, etc.

Try to write the best definitive essay with the help of our guide!

The List of Essay Definitions Encountered in Academic Writing

As a rule, before you start with the first paragraph of your definition essay, it is crucial to understand all the different types that will make your writing fit the situation and academic objectives. Therefore, when you have something great for your thesis statement and topic sentences, consider these types of definitions first:

Analytical . As the title implies, you must use analysis and divide your subject into several parts by approaching each aspect individually. Use one paragraph per idea.
Classification . It means that you can apply systematization for your definition essay and find similarities or specific factors to classify your issues or processes.
Comparison . Just like classification type, you have to find elements that stand out and compare and contrast various things that differ or appear the same. Your thesis must sum up these differences.
Detailed Method . This is where you must focus on certain characteristics and let your audience focus on details to understand the subject well.
Negation Approach . It means that writing a definition essay you should use your arguments clearly to prevent your audience from a wrong understanding of a problem. In simple terms, it tells people what your issue is not.
Origins & Causes . This is where you tell about the origins of your issue or things that have caused some event or changes. Remember to provide background information and the reasons why something is important.
Scientific Problem . As a rule, it means that you should synthesize available information and explain the ways how something is used or studied by your fellow researchers.

Of course, you can always combine these different essay definition types for the best results, which is acceptable! Remember that it should also contain your thoughts and additions if it is applicable.

If you are looking for interesting exemplification essay examples , EduBirdie has some for you. These examples can provide you with inspiration and ideas on how to effectively use exemplification in your essay, showcasing real-life examples and evidence to support your arguments.

General Definition Essay Structure

Like with other essay types, definition essay format follows the following basic structure:

Introduction - lists standard explanations and raises important rhetorical questions attempting to interpret them, it may list interesting facts related to the background of these terms (but not only), anecdotes, funny cases, personal experience, etc. Altogether, this helps in hooking attention and providing necessary background that would allow diving deeper into the matter.
Thesis Statement – this is not a distinct section but rather, a key element of the introduction. For definitive essay, it should state a generalized and comprehensive personal definition. It should be formulated as an arguable claim that closely summarizes the paper’s essence.
Main body. All paragraphs should be related to this thesis through topic sentences – normally, this is the first sentence in a paragraph. Subsequent sentences constituting the paragraph explain them, support with arguments, provide evidence and examples, etc. Paragraphs should end up with concluding sentences, which synthesize the content presented within these paragraphs, or with transitioning sentences that help introduce subsequent paragraphs for smoother content flow.
Conclusion – this is where thesis is restated considering all ideas, arguments, and evidence that has been provided. Apart from synthesizing information, conclusions may suggest related topics for exploration.

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Definition Essay Outline and Its Constitution

When assembling an essay outline, it is useful to consider what type of paragraphs and how many of each should be included and in what order. In terms of meaning, such types of essays have the following sections or paragraphs:

Denotation – this part provides direct concept explanations, for instance, dictionary or formal interpretations integrated from multiple sources. This section is normally shorter and could be limited to one paragraph. If you are wondering how to start a definition essay, opening your essay by listing formal dictionary explanations would be perfectly acceptable and even fairly standard.
Connotation – in this part, one describes related ideas or term implications, including from a personal perspective or judgement. A good method for identifying connotations is looking up the word in a thesaurus. The connotation part is typically more voluminous, being spread across multiple paragraphs.

Judged by their specific function, paragraphs can either:

Describe – provide description of the words in detail; describe perspectives, standard or peculiar interpretations, worldviews, etc.
Analyze – these paragraphs could dissect complex words or expressions into individual parts and analyze each of these separately, as well as in combination. This could be done, for instance, with terms “self-sufficiency”, (“self” + “sufficiency”) or “gratefulness” (“grate” + ”fulness”). Obviously, such “linguistic” analysis does not apply to simple words like “hate”, “respect”, etc. However, each word may be analyzed for multiple meanings, for instance globalization may be viewed as globalization of culture, of knowledge, commerce, lifestyle, life-quality expectations, etc.
Exemplify – providing an eloquent and detailed example to accompany complex interpretations or argument increases understanding of it by readers, hence this is mandatory for good writing. Including good analogies has similar effects.
Compare and contrast. These paragraphs help differentiate discussed words or concepts by strictly defining their boundaries and by highlighting similarities and differences between compared terms.
Negate . One way of defining concepts is to tell what they are not – this is especially useful for closely related concepts.
Provide background with regard to history and origin. While this is not practical for common words, it makes sense for neologisms, professional terms, and some other words whose origin is easily tracked (for instance, “democracy”).

Consider definition essay outline and structural requirements along with what types of paragraphs would constitute your essays and what they would be exactly about and you’ll end up with definitive and solid outline.

Tips On How to Write a Definition Essay

Although it may not sound application to writing a definition essay, it must inspire you or motivate you to know your subject because the purpose is to sound confident and clear as you deliver the facts and deliver some important concepts. Here are some tips you must consider before you start writing:

Start With a List of Sources . Never ignore starting with a list of good references that will help you to support your existing perception of some subject. Remember about citation rules and do not overdo your quoting because it can lead to increased similarity rates and plagiarism risks.
Proofread & Edit . Always proofread your definition essay to eliminate repetitions and the weak parts that may sound confusing to your reader. Pay attention to possible grammar and spelling issues. By doing so, you can improve your final grade and avoid those minor mistakes. It is also good to proofread your paper aloud to ensure that it sounds right.
Check The Requires Structure . Even if you may think that you already know it all, it is recommended to check your grading rubric twice in terms of structure and the required paragraphs.
Research Your Subject . It means that even if you have a good list of sources, you must provide your audience with an unbiased outlook. It will take some time to read through the various sources to determine how the subject is approached by others. Make sure that you check more than one source or dictionary for your definition. Writing a definition essay, doing so will give you a full picture and various semantic meanings.
Avoid Copying Definitions . Do not copy definitions word-by-word even if you are turning to some dictionary. It is recommended to express your thoughts and paraphrase things to provide a better definition without plagiarism even if it is unintentional.

Common Mistakes That Occur While Writing Interpretations

Below, we list some usual mistakes made when writing definition essay:

Choosing topics that are either too narrow or concrete to allow extended definitions, various perspectives or interpretations. Rather than choosing terms like “Cold War”, “TV mass culture” more general and broad definition essay topics should be used, such as “war”, “culture”, “freedom”, “dignity”, “innovation”, etc.
Selecting topics that are overly broad or that represent little potential for captivating discussion: “work”, “rain”, “sand”. It is generally advisable to choose controversial topics or concepts whose understanding varies significantly among individuals and might even be associated with conflicting positions.
Failing to research term properly. Knowing how to define a word in an essay exhaustively implies working with dictionaries. Ignoring these results in a serious mistake, since these normally list all known word meanings in various contexts – exploring how concepts change depending on context is an important starting point for writing definition essays. Combining several good dictionaries could be especially powerful – this will help cover the entire semantic space of a given word, guiding further interpretations and description of connotations.
Quoting overly lengthy formulations exactly as found in dictionaries – this should be avoided since it affects your level of uniqueness and may be treated as plagiarism by many software tools.

If you are keen to avoid mistakes, consider contracting our academic assistance service. Apart from definition essays, our writers are familiar with definition narrative essay, research papers, laboratory reports, coursework, case studies, capstone projects, speeches, how to write an informative essay , and virtually any other type of writing help one can imagine.

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Definition Essay Example for Students

Given that definition essay example can be much more helpful in familiarizing readers with this type of essay, below we provide such a sample (the thesis is italicized).

Justice Justice is hugely important element for relationships between individuals and virtually for any human group, however small – obviously, this applies to society as a whole. Commonly understood meaning of justice is adherence to fairness and impartiality whenever dealing with other people or when conflicts management, be it in daily life or within the frames of legal system. The Cambridge online dictionary defines justice as "fairness in the way people are dealt with" or "the condition of being morally correct or fair". As a law term, it is "the system of laws in a country by which people are judged and punished". Moreover, here in the US, it also means a "judge in a law court". The Merriam-Webster dictionary adds a few other unique definitions, for instance "the maintenance or administration of what is just" for instance, by justly managing conflicting claims, rewarding, and punishing. Other definitions are "conformity to truth, fact, or reason", "the principle or ideal of just dealing or right action" but also conformity to this principle (righteousness). Thus, apart from being used to designate judges, all formal interpretations of justice, in a way or another, deal with fair treatment, regardless of whether individuals, groups, or state institutions are considered. Hence, this is regarded as the core and fairly universal meaning of the term. Importantly, many dictionaries mention impartiality as an essential component of this treatment. Impartiality ensures that deliverers of justice put fairness principles above their own interests and above interests of any given actor involved in conflicts that are managed. Apart from this, when thinking about justice or justice deliverers, the following concepts are implied: integrity, honesty, equity, adherence to truth and law, legitimacy. Nevertheless, understanding of justice differs greatly across individuals but also across societies and cultural groups, which ultimately reflects in laws. For instance, principle of “an eye for an eye” practiced under Iran’s sharia law may seem totally weird here, in the US or western world, where we are used with standardized punishments proportional to crime gravity, such as incarceration, monetary fines, property sequestration. A renowned example involved an Iranian man who blinded a woman using acid and who was sentenced in 2008 to the same punishment. Thus, justice is essentially fair, impartial treatment, be it in interpersonal or collective interaction and whether it is reflected in simple actions or in laws. Importantly, this term has to be examined within societal and cultural context, as notions may vary significantly depending on this.

To conclude, definitive essay provides a broad overview of word or phrase meaning across different contexts along with implications, examples, explanations, and interpretation. Depending on the concepts approached, producing such essays are fairly challenging, which is a good reason to consider essay writing service provided by Edubirdie.

With us, you have greater liberty in selecting your preferred writer according to performance statistics. You can also continuously assess project progress by requesting outlines, drafts, writing samples and effectively correct or guide writers in real time. We also implemented an unlimited free revisions policy if order instructions are not met but also a money-back guarantee policy if revisions are unsatisfactory. Despite high quality output, we strive to minimize potential risks for clients, so that they feel maximally safe contracting our services. Considering all these, why not give it a try?

What makes a good definition essay?

A good definition essay will achieve three goals: it will tell your readers about what is being defined; it will present you with clear and basic information; it will turn to facts and good real-life examples that will help people to understand things. After all, it is the purpose of a good definition essay. Remember to make it vivid and accessible.

How to start a definition essay?

You should start with a good introduction to your subject. Make sure that you provide information about why something is important and how or why it is approached by the academic community or professionals in your field. Start with the most common definition that fits your topic and continue with the less common types.

How do you write a thesis statement for a definition essay?

An introduction of a definition essay ends with a thesis that should express personal and generalized definitions or interpretations of the explored concepts. These arguable statements are the focal points of definition essays, which means that papers revolve entirely around these. The thesis needs to be general enough to connect with and cover all paragraph topic sentences.

How do you write a definition term?

Picking terms for such essays is done by considering how interesting or controversial the topics are, whether they engulf definitions that vary depending on different circumstances or contexts, whether they allow multiple perspectives, views, including conflictual, whether the author is familiar with these terms and provide an interpretation of these, etc.

How do you organize a definition essay?

Organizing essays involves considering the traditional structure, according to which there is an introduction, main body, conclusion, but also deciding how many paragraphs should be used for each section and what information should be each paragraph’s function: denotation, connotation, description, analysis, exemplification, comparison, etc.

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Build a Corporate Culture That Works

There’s a widespread understanding that managing corporate culture is key to business success. Yet few companies articulate their culture in such a way that the words become an organizational reality that molds employee behavior as intended.

All too often a culture is described as a set of anodyne norms, principles, or values, which do not offer decision-makers guidance on how to make difficult choices when faced with conflicting but equally defensible courses of action.

The trick to making a desired culture come alive is to debate and articulate it using dilemmas. If you identify the tough dilemmas your employees routinely face and clearly state how they should be resolved—“In this company, when we come across this dilemma, we turn left”—then your desired culture will take root and influence the behavior of the team.

To develop a culture that works, follow six rules: Ground your culture in the dilemmas you are likely to confront, dilemma-test your values, communicate your values in colorful terms, hire people who fit, let culture drive strategy, and know when to pull back from a value statement.

Start by thinking about the dilemmas your people will face.

Idea in Brief

The problem.

There’s a widespread understanding that managing corporate culture is key to business success. Yet few companies articulate their corporate culture in such a way that the words become an organizational reality that molds employee behavior as intended.

What Usually Happens

How to fix it.

Follow six rules: Ground your culture in the dilemmas you are likely to confront, dilemma-test your values, communicate your values in colorful terms, hire people who fit, let culture drive strategy, and know when to pull back from a value.

At the beginning of my career, I worked for the health-care-software specialist HBOC. One day, a woman from human resources came into the cafeteria with a roll of tape and began sticking posters on the walls. They proclaimed in royal blue the company’s values: “Transparency, Respect, Integrity, Honesty.” The next day we received wallet-sized plastic cards with the same words and were asked to memorize them so that we could incorporate them into our actions. The following year, when management was indicted on 17 counts of conspiracy and fraud, we learned what the company’s values really were.

EM Erin Meyer is a professor at INSEAD, where she directs the executive education program Leading Across Borders and Cultures. She is the author of The Culture Map: Breaking Through the Invisible Boundaries of Global Business (PublicAffairs, 2014) and coauthor (with Reed Hastings) of No Rules Rules: Netflix and the Culture of Reinvention (Penguin, 2020). ErinMeyerINSEAD

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Understanding the Definition and Impact of Crises in Modern Society

This essay about crises examines their significant disruptions and impacts on society. It discusses how crises, whether sudden like natural disasters or gradual like climate change, challenge the status quo, reveal societal vulnerabilities, and demand urgent responses. The text explores the economic, social, and psychological repercussions of crises, highlights their role as catalysts for change, and emphasizes the unequal effects on vulnerable populations. Additionally, it addresses the evolving perception of crises and the importance of effective governance and international cooperation in crisis management.

How it works

In the grand narrative of human history, crises serve as the threads that intricately weave through various epochs, leaving profound and lasting impacts on societies and civilizations. Broadly defined as significant disruptions that endanger the stability and functioning of communities or systems, crises manifest in multiple forms, from natural calamities to economic downturns, pandemics to political turmoil. A thorough understanding of the definition and implications of crises in contemporary society necessitates an exploration of their multifaceted nature, underlying causes, consequences, and the adaptive responses they elicit from societies.

At its essence, a crisis marks a pivotal point where the established order is disrupted, often bringing about significant consequences for individuals, communities, and institutions. These events can arise suddenly, like earthquakes or terror attacks, or develop over time, such as climate change or economic recessions. Regardless of their origin or nature, crises possess common traits: they disrupt normalcy, induce uncertainty, and require immediate attention and action.

A key characteristic of crises is their tendency to expose and intensify existing vulnerabilities within societies. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted global disparities in healthcare access and socioeconomic inequalities, disproportionately affecting marginalized groups. Similarly, economic crises often uncover structural flaws in financial systems or governance, leading to unemployment, poverty, and social unrest. In such times, the impact of crises extends beyond immediate material losses to encompass deeper social, psychological, and political consequences.

The repercussions of crises permeate all aspects of society. Economically, they can cause market instability, business closures, and job losses, exacerbating inequalities and reshaping economic landscapes for years. Socially, crises can strain community cohesion, increase interpersonal tensions, and challenge trust in institutions. Psychologically, individuals may experience heightened stress, anxiety, or trauma, especially during prolonged or recurring crises such as armed conflicts or environmental disasters.

Furthermore, crises often act as catalysts for change, prompting societies to reassess priorities, innovate solutions, and adopt new practices. The aftermath of crises can foster resilience as communities rebuild infrastructure, strengthen social safety nets, and implement policies to prevent future catastrophes. Innovations born from crisis-driven necessity, such as medical advancements during pandemics or technological breakthroughs following natural disasters, showcase humanity’s ability to adapt and evolve in the face of adversity.

However, the impact of crises is not evenly distributed. Vulnerable populations, including low-income groups, racial minorities, and marginalized communities, frequently bear the brunt of crises due to preexisting disadvantages and systemic inequalities. Addressing these disparities requires proactive measures to ensure equitable access to resources, services, and opportunities both during and after crises.

The definition and perception of crises also shift with societal norms and values. What was once viewed as a natural disaster may now be understood through the lens of climate change, leading to calls for sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. Similarly, advances in technology and communication have transformed how societies prepare for and respond to crises, facilitating faster dissemination of information, remote work capabilities, and virtual collaboration during emergencies.

In the realm of governance, crises challenge the effectiveness of policies, leadership, and institutional resilience. Successful crisis management depends on preparedness, coordination, and the ability to make timely, informed decisions under pressure. Failures in crisis response can erode public trust and have enduring repercussions on political stability and legitimacy.

Moreover, the interconnectedness of the modern world means that crises rarely remain confined to one locale. A financial downturn in one region can trigger a global economic recession. A disease outbreak can spread rapidly across continents, transcending borders and necessitating international cooperation. Addressing these transnational challenges requires collective action, diplomatic engagement, and solidarity among nations.

In summary, crises are integral to the human experience, profoundly shaping societies and individuals. They test resilience, expose vulnerabilities, and drive change. Understanding the definition and impact of crises in modern society requires a comprehensive approach, considering social, economic, political, and environmental dimensions. By learning from past experiences, fostering resilience, and promoting equity, societies can mitigate the effects of crises and build a more sustainable future. As history unfolds, the lessons of past crises serve as beacons of wisdom, guiding humanity towards greater preparedness, compassion, and collective resilience in the face of adversity.

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‘Brats’: What to Know About Andrew McCarthy’s Look Back at the ’80s Stars

A new documentary revisits the group of young actors that helped define the decade. Here are some of its most interesting moments.

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A man in a coat walks through a street while holding a phone up to his ear.

By Melena Ryzik

In the documentary “Brats,” Andrew McCarthy attempts to come to terms with being part of the Brat Pack, the group of young actors who were ascendant in ’80s movies. Turns out, many of them didn’t like the nickname, or the association. “I lost control of the narrative of my career overnight,” McCarthy said of the period after the writer David Blum coined the immediately catchy term, in a 1985 New York Magazine profile of Emilio Estevez.

He and other actors, like Estevez and Rob Lowe, who had been frequently cast together in ensemble coming-of-age dramedies (“St. Elmo’s Fire”), scattered, fearful that appearing together would be a career liability. In the documentary, streaming on Hulu, McCarthy, an actor, director and travel writer , checks in, after many years of absence, to see how they processed this pop culture twist.

Some — like Demi Moore, a “St. Elmo’s” co-star — handled it all a lot better than others.

In a phone interview from his Manhattan home, McCarthy, 61, said his impulse was not nostalgia — though he knows that’s what might draw an audience — but an excavation of how time and memory collide with youthful expectations.

It was a leap: He walked around New York and cold-called Brat Packers he hadn’t seen in decades, with a camera crew trailing. “I thought, if anyone calls me back, I have a movie,” he said.

Prompted by McCarthy’s low-key, conversational style, Moore, Lowe, Estevez and others turned up; Judd Nelson and Molly Ringwald did not. In kitchen table and couch-side interviews that also serve as a kind of celebrity home tour — Ally Sheedy’s Upper West Side apartment ranks as the most relatable — the movie cracks the time capsule of the Brat Pack’s appeal. Here, some takeaways.

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