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Definition Essay Writing

Definition Essay Topics

150 Best Definition Essay Topics For Students

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A Closer Look at Definition Essay

A definition essay is a type of academic writing that defines or explains a word, term, concept, or idea. There are some words that have literal meanings and they are very easy to explain i.e. pencil, table, chair, etc.

There are some terms that have abstract meanings and are difficult to explain i.e. love, care, emotion, and feelings.

This type of essay includes both the official meanings of the word and the writer's interpretation. This interpretation is supported by examples.

A good definition essay will not exceed one page in length, and it should include 250-500 words. The goal is for the student to expand on a word’s usage. This can be done by explaining other possible concepts of what they are analyzing - this makes them more interesting!

Definition Essay Topics Ideas

When you search over the internet you’ll get plenty of definition essay topics. Having a lot of ideas in hand can make the topic selection process difficult. That is why we have compiled a list of some effective and interesting definition essay topics.

Check out these creative definition essay topics lists below and choose the best one for your essay.

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Definition Essay Topics for High School Students

Identity in the Digital Age
Empathy in a Diverse World
Global Citizenship
Intellectual Curiosity
Civic Engagement
Environmental Stewardship
Ethical Leadership
Cultural Fluency
Mindfulness in Education
Critical Thinking

Definition Essay Topics for College Students

What is the meaning of optimism?
What does sincerity mean?
Love at first sight
The true meaning of respect
The actual definition of family
Define Buddhism
Who is a strong leader?
What is the actual meaning of ambitions?
Define racism in your own words
How will you define success?

Definition Essay Topic on Mass Media

The evolution of 'news' in the digital age: redefining journalism.
The true meaning of 'media bias': navigating perspectives.
The influence of 'social media': defining modern connectivity.
The power of 'advertising': shaping perceptions and desires.
Reality TV: a new definition of 'entertainment'?
The impact of 'fake news': deconstructing information manipulation.
The definition of 'clickbait': balancing engagement and misleading content.
Streaming services: redefining 'television' in the 21st century.
The role of 'podcasts' in modern communication: beyond radio.
Citizen journalism: broadening the scope of 'media.

Funny Definition Essay Topics

Awkward Dancing
Chaos Theory
Social Media Stalking
Mismatched Socks
Infinite Scroll
Bad Hair Days
Pajama Fashion
Fast Food Gourmet
Napping Olympics
Pencil Tossing

Creative Definition Essay Topics

The Essence of Wanderlust: Defining the Spirit of Adventure
Epic Fails: The Art and Science of Learning from Mistakes
Digital Detox: Navigating Life in the Age of Screens
Ambition Redefined: Pursuing Dreams in the Real World
Friendship in the Digital Age: The Modern Definition of 'BFF'
Mindfulness Unveiled: Embracing the Present Moment
Nostalgia: Journeying into the Past Through Rose-Tinted Glasses
Resilience: Bouncing Back from Life's Unexpected Twists
The Art of Simplicity: Finding Beauty in the Basics
Silence Speaks: Exploring the Power of Quiet Moments

Easy Definition Essay Topics

Privacy
Humanity

Good Definition Essay Topics

Describe laziness
Define attitude
What is magnetism?
How do you define attraction?
Define human rights
What is the meaning of responsibilities?
Time management
Define health
Define class
What is the meaning of wealth

Unique Definition Essay Topics

The quirkiness of 'fam': exploring unconventional family structures.
The essence of 'chill': beyond a relaxing vibe.
Defining 'awkward': navigating social discomfort.
The true meaning of 'indie': beyond music and film.
The 'vibe' culture: capturing the unspoken atmosphere.
Decoding 'meme culture': more than just humor.
The complexity of 'cool': an ever-changing definition.
The 'hacktivist' movement: merging hacking and activism.
Retro: nostalgia or a timeless definition?
The art of 'hygge': coziness in a single word.

One Word Definition Essay Topics:

Sustainability

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Classification and Definition Essay Topics

Types of friendship: defining bonds beyond acquaintanceship.
Genres of literature: from mystery to science fiction.
Learning styles: understanding varied approaches to education.
Personality types: navigating the landscape of traits.
Cuisine categories: exploring the world through food.
Forms of government: beyond democracy and authoritarianism.
Music genres: from classical to experimental.
Social media users: the diverse landscape of online presence.
Educational philosophies: from Montessori to Waldorf.
The world of gaming: classifying video game genres.

Simple Definition Essay Topics:

Friendship: what does it truly mean to be a friend?
Happiness: beyond smiles and laughter.
Home: defining the heart of comfort.
Success: navigating achievements and fulfillment.
Courage: facing fear with grace.
Kindness: the power of small acts.
Respect: cultivating dignity in interactions.
Family: beyond blood ties.
Trust: the foundation of genuine connections.
Wisdom: gained through experience and reflection.

Extended Definition Essay Topics

What does the term freedom mean?
Define ownership in your own words
What is the meaning of the term character?
The current American dream
The evolution of the definitions
Define experience in your own words
What is common sense?
Explore the term science
What role does a degree play in a student’s life?
Time: The Elusive Concept That Shapes Our Lives

Random Definition Essay Topics

Small business
Masculinity
Artificial Intelligence
Individuality

Definition Argumentative Essay Topics

Democracy vs. Dictatorship
Meaning of two sides of a coin
Classical music vs. Pop music
Friendship vs. Love
The Fluid Concept of 'Justice'
Equality vs. Equity
The Definition of 'Art'
Security in the 21st Century
Defining 'Fake News' in a Post-Truth Society
The Definition of 'Heroism'

Controversial Definition Essay Topics

Defining Patriotism: Where Loyalty Ends and Extremism Begins.
Freedom of Speech: Navigating the Thin Line Between Expression and Harm.
The Slippery Slope of Political Correctness: Balancing Respect and Censorship.
The Fluid Boundaries of 'Cultural Appropriation' in Art and Fashion.
Gender Identity: Beyond Binary – The Controversy of Pronouns.
The Definition of 'Addiction': Disease or Personal Responsibility?
Euthanasia: Dignity in Death or Slippery Moral Slope?
The Controversy of 'Trigger Warnings': Protecting or Censoring?
Defining 'Fake News' in a Post-Truth Era: Information or Manipulation?
The Line Between 'National Security' and Invasion of Privacy.

How to Choose a Definition Essay Topic?

The success of your essay majorly depends on the topic. A good topic is a key element in writing a good essay. So when you choose a topic for your essay, keep the following things in mind.

Choose a topic that has a broad meaning rather than a literal meaning.
Make sure you understand the topic completely.
Make sure that the subject should be interesting for you.
The topic should be interesting for the reader as well.
Choose a word, idea or term that is fresh for the audience.
Avoid picking any common topic that the reader is already familiar with.
Choose an idea that connects with your target audience.

Choosing a controversial topic is quite easier than choosing a common definition essay topic. As you have a few options to choose from and a little space to write about it. But if you keep the instructions given above in mind, you can easily choose an amazing topic for your essay.

Tips on How to Write a Definition Essay

Here are some tips that you should learn before writing your essay. These steps will help you structure your essay in a proper format.

Pick an interesting and unique paper topic.
Research the topic thoroughly and collect detailed information about it.
Create a definition essay outline , it will help you follow the essay pattern. Without an outline, it is really difficult to craft a good essay according to the format.
Tell the exact meaning of your subject in the introduction part. Present the thesis statement that provides a detailed meaning of the essay topic. Your introduction should be able to grab the reader’s attention and make them read the complete essay.
In the body paragraphs, provide evidence that supports your personal and dictionary definitions. Elaborate on the topic with the help of your personal experience examples.
In the conclusion section, just sum up all the explanations and descriptions. This is akin to closing remarks, so do not provide a fresh idea over here. Provide your close remarks and finish the essay.
After writing the essay, spare some time for the proofreading and editing process. Check your essay for spelling and grammatical mistakes. Remove all the errors from the essay to make it flawless.

Definition Essay Structure

Your final definition paper may have a structure similar to this:

A copy-pasted or paraphrased definition from the dictionary.
Writer’s personal understanding and interpretation of the word.
An example of the usage of the word in a real context.
Supporting evidence justifying the writer’s interpretation of the word.
Conclusion summarizing each point briefly.

In conclusion, our exploration into the world of definition essays has been a journey of discovery. We've dived into the meanings of words, navigated through controversies, and embraced creativity. Words are more than just letters; they have the power to shape thoughts and connect us in unique ways.

This essay writing guide will help you a lot in writing your essay. Make sure you follow the procedure so that you don’t make any mistakes.

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Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

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Best Definition Essay Topics Guide for an A+ Grade

Updated 30 Aug 2024

Knowing the rules of a definition essay writing is one of the best skills that can be useful for expressing your own idea regarding a particular topic, concept, term or issue and developing research skills that are highly appreciated in any US college (ex. Harvard) or any higher educational establishment. Still, a few questions may occur when looking at general requirements for writing an essay of good quality.

For instance, how to write a definition essay and structure it , how do you choose definition essay topics? Which topics are appropriate examples and which are better to avoid? How to create a thesis for such essay? Or, how do we create the best topic that appropriately defines what we are about to write? What sources can be used while writing this kind of essay? All these questions are quite important for any definitive text and every student should be aware of the answers. If such essay is a new genre for you or you just want to refresh your memory on the topics, this article will cover all the necessary details.

So What Is a Definition Essay?

The answer is quite easy. A definition essay is a paper type in which you focus on explaining and breaking down the meaning of one word. It is an in-depth analysis aimed at discussing and digging up a true understanding based on your own ideas. But, there is a catch: any idea you develop must be backed up by credible and verified evidence.

Seems to be a tough task to choose topics. Why so?

There exist words that are spelled or pronounced similarly but have different meanings. For a student who does not investigate properly, it is very easy to get confused and to mix up definitions or explanations. Interpreting a word in a write-up requires a lot of research, study, and reading. Therefore, when you think of ways to generate exciting and eye-catching definition extended essays topics , here are things you should find out:

Origin of the word: You should be able to search for information regarding its origin — is it French, American, Gaelic? How it was coined, who used it first, where was it used, etc.
Context: Context of usage could have changed over time. Prepare tangible resources that prove or dispute that fact.
Previous versions: Some words are updated versions of what they were in the past. Try to find these versions if possible in order to track alteration of the word.
Usage: How do we use this word today? Have there been any controversial uses for it over time?

Always keep in mind that all these details will be arranged from your personal view, i.e. you have to ‘own’ the definition, quote it in your own words.

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Guide to 250 Definition Essay Topics to Choose From

Now, when you know everything about a definition essay, go through a compiled list of 100 definition paper topics to choose for your essay.

Definition Argument Essay Topics

Defining "Success" in Modern Society
The True Meaning of "Courage"
What Constitutes "Fairness" in the Workplace?
The Definition of "Privacy" in the Digital Age
Understanding "Equality" in a Diverse Society
The Essence of "Leadership" in Various Contexts
Health: A Comprehensive Definition Beyond Physical Well-being
The Complexities of Defining "Art"
Intelligence: Nature vs. Nurture
The Definition of "Addiction" in a World of Technology and Substances
Happiness: Subjective Well-being or Objective Fulfillment?
What Does It Mean to Be "Educated"?
The True Meaning of "Freedom of Speech"
Defining "Justice" in the Legal System
Love: A Universal Language or Cultural Construct?
The Definition of "Power" in Social and Political Contexts
What Constitutes "Beauty" in Society Today?
The Meaning of "Family" in Contemporary Society
Sustainability: More Than Just an Environmental Term
Understanding "Respect" Across Cultures

Definition Essay Topics for College

The Evolution of "College" as an Institution
Defining "Creativity" in the Academic World
Globalization: Impacts and Implications
The Meaning of "Cultural Appropriation" in Art and Society
Democracy: Ideals vs. Reality
The Definition of "Mental Health" in College Campuses
Professionalism: What Does It Mean for Today's Graduates?
Understanding "Ethics" in Various Disciplines
Innovation: Beyond Invention and Creativity
Social Media: Shaping Identities and Societies
The Concept of "Work-Life Balance" for Students
Multiculturalism in Education
Defining "Academic Freedom"
Entrepreneurship: A Career Path or Mindset?
Volunteerism: The Value Beyond Service
Peer Pressure in College Life
The Role of "Curiosity" in Learning
Stress: Understanding Its Impact on Students
Teamwork in Academic and Professional Settings
The Meaning of "Independence" for College Students

Technology Topics for Definition Essay

Defining "Artificial Intelligence" and Its Scope
Blockchain: Beyond Cryptocurrency
The True Meaning of "Digital Privacy"
Virtual Reality: A New Dimension of Experience
Understanding "Cybersecurity" in a Connected World
Social Networking: Redefining Human Connections
Innovation in the Tech Industry
The Definition of "Smart Technology" in Everyday Life
Big Data: Implications and Ethics
Cloud Computing: Transforming Data Management
Internet of Things: A Networked Future
Augmented Reality: Blending Worlds
Machine Learning: The Path to AI
Digital Divide: Access and Inequality
E-commerce: Redefining Retail
Tech Startups: The New Age of Entrepreneurship
Digital Nomadism: Work and Lifestyle Redefined
Gaming: Entertainment or Culture?
Mobile Technology: The Revolution in Our Pockets
Telemedicine: The Future of Healthcare

Happiness Definition Paper Ideas

Happiness: A State of Mind or Circumstance?
The Role of "Gratitude" in Achieving Happiness
Contentment vs. Happiness
The Impact of "Altruism" on Personal Happiness
Mindfulness: A Path to Happiness?
The Pursuit of Happiness in Different Cultures
Success and Its Relation to Happiness
Social Connections: Their Importance in Feeling Happy
The Science Behind "Happiness"
Self-Acceptance and Its Role in Happiness
Work-Life Balance and Its Effect on Happiness
Financial Security vs. Wealth: What Brings Happiness?
The Influence of "Physical Health" on Happiness
Personal Growth and Its Contribution to Happiness
Simplicity as a Key to Happiness
The Role of "Nature" in Enhancing Happiness
Creativity and Its Impact on Happiness
Spirituality and Happiness: Exploring the Connection
Freedom of Choice and Its Importance to Happiness
Generosity: Does Giving Lead to Happiness?

'Freedom' as a Topic

The Many Facets of "Freedom" in Society
Freedom of Speech: Rights and Responsibilities
Economic Freedom and Its Impact on Societies
The Role of "Freedom of the Press" in Democracy
Religious Freedom: A Fundamental Human Right
Freedom of Expression in Art and Culture
The Concept of "Personal Freedom"
Political Freedom: The Foundation of Democratic Societies
Freedom from Want: Addressing Basic Human Needs
Academic Freedom and Its Importance in Education
Freedom of Movement: A Global Perspective
Digital Freedom: Privacy and Expression Online
Freedom from Fear: Security and Human Rights
The Balance Between "Freedom" and "Equality"
Intellectual Freedom and Its Role in Innovation
Freedom of Association: Building Communities and Networks
Financial Freedom: More Than Just Wealth
Freedom to Choose: Decision-Making and Autonomy
The Historical Struggle for "Freedom"
Freedom in the Age of Globalization

Extended Definition Essay Topics

Defining "Resilience" in the Face of Adversity
The True Essence of "Empathy" in Human Relationships
Sustainability: A Comprehensive Look Beyond the Environment
Integrity: The Bedrock of Character and Trust
Innovation: More Than Just Invention
The Multifaceted Concept of "Justice" in Society
Wisdom vs. Intelligence: Unpacking the Differences
Freedom: A Philosophical and Practical Exploration
Courage: Beyond Physical Bravery
Honor: Its Role and Relevance in Modern Society
Passion: The Driving Force Behind Creativity and Success
Leadership: A Dynamic and Evolving Concept
Happiness: Pursuit and Perception
Beauty: Subjective Ideals and Societal Standards
Equality: Challenges and Achievements in the Modern World
Addiction: Understanding Its Complexity Beyond Substance Abuse
Privacy: Redefining in the Digital Age
Health: A Holistic Approach to Well-being
Culture: The Tapestry of Human Expression and Belief
Success: Personal Fulfillment vs. Societal Recognition

Great Topics on 'Family'

Family: Evolution of Its Definition in a Modern Context
The Role of "Tradition" in Family Dynamics
Single Parenthood: Challenges and Triumphs
Blended Families: Navigating Complexity with Unity
Generational Gap: Bridging Differences within Families
Family Roles: Shifting Perspectives and Expectations
Adoption: Expanding the Concept of Family
Family Support: Its Impact on Individual Resilience
Inheritance: Beyond Material Assets
Family Businesses: Mixing Kinship with Commerce
Domestic Responsibilities: Gender Roles and Equality
Elder Care: The Family's Role in Aging Societies
Family Traditions: Their Importance in Cultural Identity
Parenting Styles: Influence on Child Development
Family Conflict: Resolution and Growth
Family Secrets: The Impact on Trust and Unity
Nuclear Family vs. "Extended Family": Benefits and Challenges
Family Values: Guiding Principles for Behavior and Beliefs
Family Reunions: Celebrating Connections and Heritage
Family Planning: Choices and Implications for Future Generations

Social Topics for a Definition Essay

Social Justice: Unpacking Its Meaning and Importance
Community: The Fabric of Social Connectivity
Identity: Formation in the Social Context
Social Norms: Their Influence on Behavior and Beliefs
Inequality: Addressing Disparities in Society
Social Media: Redefining Human Interaction
Citizenship: Rights, Responsibilities, and Identity
Social Change: Mechanisms and Movements
Prejudice: Understanding Its Roots and Remedies
Globalization: Its Impact on Social Structures
Social Welfare: Systems for Support and Sustainability
Activism: The Drive for Social Reform
Social Anxiety: Navigating the Challenges of Interaction
Cultural Assimilation vs. "Cultural Preservation"
Social Exclusion: Causes and Consequences
Urbanization: Its Effects on Society and Environment
Social Mobility: Realities and Barriers
Ethnicity: Identity and Influence in Society
Social Responsibility: Individual and Collective Roles
Class Consciousness: Awareness and Action

What is Love - Eternal Topic

Love: Beyond Romantic Notions
Unconditional Love: Its Existence and Expression
Platonic Love: The Value of Non-Romantic Relationships
Self-Love: The Foundation of Well-being
Parental Love: Guiding and Letting Go
Love at First Sight: Myth or Reality?
Enduring Love: Secrets to Long-lasting Relationships
Love Languages: Expressing and Receiving Affection
Lost Love: Coping with Heartbreak and Moving On
Love vs. Lust: Distinguishing Deep Connection from Desire
Tough Love: Its Role in Personal Growth
Sacrificial Love: The Limits and Rewards
Rekindled Love: Rediscovering Connections
Unrequited Love: Navigating One-sided Affections
Evolving Love: Adapting to Changes in Relationships
Love and Marriage: Cultural and Personal Perspectives
Love Across Distances: Maintaining Connections
Forbidden Love: Societal Boundaries and Personal Choices
Spiritual Love: Connecting on a Deeper Level
Love and Forgiveness: Healing and Reconciliation

History Definition Essay Topics List

Revolution: Catalysts and Consequences
Empire: Rise, Dominion, and Decline
Renaissance: A Rebirth of Culture and Knowledge
Nationalism: Its Impact on World History
Colonialism: Legacy and Liberation
Industrial Revolution: Transforming Societies and Economies
Cold War: Ideologies and Interventions
Democracy: Evolution of Governance
Treaties: Shaping Borders and Relations
Exploration: Discoveries and Encounters
Inventions: Milestones in Human Progress
Civil Rights: Struggles and Achievements
Feudalism: Social Hierarchy and Land Ownership
Genocide: Understanding and Preventing Atrocities
Migration: Movements and Motivations
Enlightenment: Reason and Reform
Reformation: Religious Conflict and Change
Totalitarianism: Control and Resistance
Independence: Nations Forging Their Own Paths
Cultural Revolution: Upheaval and Transformation

Definition Essay Ideas for Business

Defining "Entrepreneurship": Beyond Starting a Business
Corporate Social Responsibility: Ethical Business Practices
Market Disruption: Changing the Competitive Landscape
Brand Loyalty: The Emotional Connection with Customers
Innovation in Business: More Than Just New Products
Leadership vs. "Management": Distinct Roles in Business Success
Sustainability in Business: Economic, Environmental, and Social Considerations
Networking: Building Relationships for Professional Growth
Customer Satisfaction: Key to Business Longevity
E-commerce: Revolutionizing Retail
Globalization: Impact on Local and International Businesses
Business Ethics: Guiding Principles in the Corporate World
Start-up Culture: Agility and Innovation in Business
Franchising: Expansion Strategy for Businesses
Outsourcing: Delegating Tasks for Efficiency and Cost-Savings
Brand Identity: Crafting a Unique Market Presence
Corporate Culture: Shaping Employee Behavior and Company Values
Digital Marketing: Engaging Customers in the Digital Age
Venture Capital: Fueling Growth in Start-ups
Business Agility: Adapting to Rapid Market Changes

Sports Definition Essay Topics

Teamwork: The Essence of Success in Team Sports
Sportsmanship: Respect and Fair Play On and Off the Field
Endurance: Physical and Mental Stamina in Sports
Coaching: Guiding Athletes Towards Excellence
Olympism: Ideals and Values of the Olympic Movement
Competitiveness: The Drive Behind Athletic Achievement
Physical Fitness: The Foundation of Athletic Performance
Talent vs. "Hard Work" in Sports Success
Injury Prevention: Safeguarding Athletes' Health
Professionalism in Sports: Beyond Amateurism
Mental Toughness: Overcoming Challenges in Sports
Fair Play: Ethical Considerations in Competitive Sports
Athletic Scholarship: Bridging Education and Sports
Sports Nutrition: Fueling Performance and Recovery
Doping: Ethical and Health Implications in Sports
Fan Culture: Community and Identity Among Sports Enthusiasts
Extreme Sports: Thrill-Seeking and Risk Management
Youth Sports: Developmental Benefits and Challenges
Sports Analytics: Data-Driven Decision Making in Sports
Legacy: Impact of Major Sporting Events on Host Communities

'Science' Topics on Any Taste

Scientific Method: The Foundation of Discovery and Innovation
Climate Change: Understanding Global Environmental Shifts
Genetics: The Blueprint of Life and Heredity
Artificial Intelligence: Redefining Human and Machine Interaction
Quantum Physics: Exploring the Subatomic World
Sustainability: Science in Service of the Environment
Biotechnology: Manipulating Biological Systems for Human Benefit
Astronomy: The Study of Celestial Objects and Phenomena
Neuroscience: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Brain
Evolution: The Process of Change in the Natural World
Renewable Energy: Sustainable Power Sources for the Future
Vaccination: Science's Answer to Infectious Diseases
Nanotechnology: Engineering on an Atomic Scale
Ecology: The Interconnectedness of Life and Environment
Robotics: The Creation and Application of Robots
Conservation Biology: Protecting Biodiversity for Future Generations
Geology: The Science of the Earth's Physical Structure
Meteorology: Predicting Weather and Understanding Climate
Chemistry: The Study of Matter and Its Transformations
Physics: The Laws Governing Matter and Energy

Definition Essay Outline — Is It Helpful?

It is impossible to start working on an essay without an outline, especially on an extended definition essay. One can easily get confused without a well-written plan with a well-thought structure of a future paper. Many US universities suggest their students outline their papers as it helps to understand details for structure — what should be in essay and what should not be there. It also helps not to lose the main thought and follow your thesis and serves as a guide.

A definitive essay outline also serves as a map of sorts because it already consists of essay parts arranged according to the order of their appearance. Have you noticed how easy it is to mess up an essay, especially a long one (let’s say, 5000 words) when you try to make some content edits? To avoid such incidents, it is recommended to complete an outline to know how paragraphs should be arranged in order to provide a smooth and consistent transition.

Structure — Identifying all Parts

An extended definition essay has a quite interesting structure. While it might not look very different from commonly used structure of, an argument-rooted essay, for example, there still exist some peculiarities that set this essay type apart from others. Here is an outline template that is in line with the requirements of most US universities:

Introduction: It is your chance to set the stage for rest of the write-up. The idea here is to inform readers of what to expect. Introduce the word, term you are about to define and provide a dictionary definition of it. Keep your introduction paragraph simple, and do not disclose too much detail here.
Thesis statement: In your thesis complete your own extended definition of a word or term based on your research and understanding of it.
Main body: Remember that whole load of research you did when preparing? The body is where you arrange all that data — origin, context, previous versions, usage. Using paragraphs for each aspect, identify core parts in true meaning and provide an explanation where needed. Make your work good enough to meet requirements for an interesting read, as well as an academic work.
Conclusion: For conclusion, general idea is, to sum up, what has been discussed in this paper — different explanations, description and others. This is akin to closing remarks and is never a good point to start a fresh set of arguments — keep that in mind.

Each of these outline parts plays an important role in making your definition essay look presentable, easy to read and follow. Completing an outline and good research will help to reach these goals.

Read also: 200+ Argumentative Essay Topics

Definition Essay Examples

Below are two definition essay examples. These would serve as a factual guide on how to begin writing and ways to keep information relevant. They would help you understand all do’s and don’ts of this essay types and help you to work towards your perfect essay.

If you're looking for more examples, you can also find definition essay examples online to expand your knowledge and enhance your writing skills.

SAMPLE 1 “The Statue of Liberty During revolution years the need came up for America to choose a physical symbol for what founding fathers stood…” Notice how writer used a hook at the beginning instead of providing a boring definition at once: “The Statue of Liberty can be defined as…” Key rule in writing an extended definition essay: never start with the main idea. Look for suitable ways to create an inversion, i.e. create a cascade of paragraphs that will gradually lead to term being explained.

SAMPLE 2 “Ohm’s Law In the years that followed the discovery of electricity, many human attempts were made to understand the effects that emulated together to achieve the fluorescence produced by…” Another key rule is: When dealing with science, keep it scientific. Do not deviate to use layman terms, especially if this is meant to be purely academic paper. Let your etymology rhyme with context on which this essay is formed. Here is third rule that would help you especially in definition argument topics is avoiding what is referred to as ‘mindless lifting’ — direct copying of an explanation from the source. If a certain analogy was used to make an explanation, look for more persuasive analogy that could achieve the same effect. Avoid direct copying from outside source in order not be accused of plagiarism.

FOUND THE TOPIC BUT NO TIME TO WRITE?

Writing an essay requires choosing a well-constructed topic. But it becomes easier to handle with good information and the right guide. At essay writing service EduBirdie comes a lot of work and time, as well as, one of our main objectives is to guide students with their academic tasks that appear to be complex, like one we discussed in this article.

If you still have difficulties writing a definition essay, our writers are ready to help you with the ideas for a topic, outline or thesis writing help. We are available 24/7 and gladly offer you a helping hand. Still, not sure if you need it? Message us to learn more about what writers can do!

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Written by David Kidwell

David is one of those experienced content creators from the United Kingdom who has a high interest in social issues, culture, and entrepreneurship. He always says that reading, blogging, and staying aware of what happens in the world is what makes a person responsible. He likes to learn and share what he knows by making things inspiring and creative enough even for those students who dislike reading.

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160 Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Students in 2024

April 3, 2024

The skill of writing an excellent argumentative essay is a crucial one for every high school or college student to master. In sum, argumentative essays teach students how to organize their thoughts logically and present them in a convincing way. This skill is helpful not only for those pursuing degrees in law , international relations , or public policy , but for any student who wishes to develop their critical thinking faculties. In this article, we’ll cover what makes a good argument essay and offer several argumentative essay topics for high school and college students. Let’s begin!

What is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is an essay that uses research to present a reasoned argument on a particular subject . As with the persuasive essay , the purpose of an argumentative essay is to sway the reader to the writer’s position. However, a strong persuasive essay makes its point through diligent research and emotion while a strong argumentative essay should be based solely on facts, not feelings.

Moreover, each fact should be supported by clear evidence from credible sources . Furthermore, a good argumentative essay will have an easy-to-follow structure. When organizing your argumentative essay, use this format as a guide:

Introduction
Supporting body paragraphs
Paragraph(s) addressing common counterarguments

Argumentative Essay Format

In the introduction , the writer presents their position and thesis statement —a sentence that summarizes the paper’s main points. The body paragraphs then draw upon supporting evidence to back up this initial statement, with each paragraph focusing on its own point. The length of your paper will determine the amount of examples you need. In general, you’ll likely need at least two to three. Additionally, your examples should be as detailed as possible, citing specific research, case studies, statistics, or anecdotes.

In the counterargument paragraph , the writer acknowledges and refutes opposing viewpoints. Finally, in the conclusion , the writer restates the main argument made in the thesis statement and summarizes the points of the essay. Additionally, the conclusion may offer a final proposal to persuade the reader of the essay’s position.

How to Write an Effective Argumentative Essay, Step by Step

Choose your topic. Use the list below to help you pick a topic. Ideally, a good argumentative essay topic will be meaningful to you—writing is always stronger when you are interested in the subject matter. In addition, the topic should be complex with plenty of “pro” and “con” arguments. Avoid choosing a topic that is either widely accepted as fact or too narrow. For example, “Is the earth round?” would not be a solid choice.
Research. Use the library, the web, and any other resources to gather information about your argumentative essay topic. Research widely but smartly. As you go, take organized notes, marking the source of every quote and where it may fit in the scheme of your larger essay. Moreover, remember to look for (and research) possible counterarguments.
Outline . Using the argument essay format above, create an outline for your essay. Then, brainstorm a thesis statement covering your argument’s main points, and begin to put your examples in order, focusing on logical flow. It’s often best to place your strongest example last.
Write . Draw on your research and outline to create a first draft. Remember, your first draft doesn’t need to be perfect. (As Voltaire says, “Perfect is the enemy of good.”) Accordingly, just focus on getting the words down on paper.
Does my thesis statement need to be adjusted?
Which examples feel strongest? Weakest?
Do the transitions flow smoothly?
Do I have a strong opening paragraph?
Does the conclusion reinforce my argument?

Tips for Revising an Argument Essay

Evaluating your own work can be difficult, so you might consider the following strategies:

Read your work aloud to yourself.
Record yourself reading your paper, and listen to the recording.
Reverse outline your paper. Firstly, next to each paragraph, write a short summary of that paragraph’s main points/idea. Then, read through your reverse outline. Does it have a logical flow? If not, where should you adjust?
Print out your paper and cut it into paragraphs. What happens when you rearrange the paragraphs?

Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School, High School, and College Students

Family argumentative essay topics.

Should the government provide financial incentives for families to have children to address the declining birth rate?
Should we require parents to provide their children with a certain level of nutrition and physical activity to prevent childhood obesity?
Should parents implement limits on how much time their children spend playing video games?
Should cell phones be banned from family/holiday gatherings?
Should we hold parents legally responsible for their children’s actions?
Should children have the right to sue their parents for neglect?
Should parents have the right to choose their child’s religion?
Are spanking and other forms of physical punishment an effective method of discipline?
Should courts allow children to choose where they live in cases of divorce?
Should parents have the right to monitor teens’ activity on social media?
Should parents control their child’s medical treatment, even if it goes against the child’s wishes?
Should parents be allowed to post pictures of their children on social media without their consent?
Should fathers have a legal say in whether their partners do or do not receive an abortion?
Can television have positive developmental benefits on children?
Should the driving age be raised to prevent teen car accidents?
Should adult children be legally required to care for their aging parents?

Education Argument Essay Topics

Should schools ban the use of technology like ChatGPT?
Are zoos unethical, or necessary for conservation and education?
To what degree should we hold parents responsible in the event of a school shooting?
Should schools offer students a set number of mental health days?
Should school science curriculums offer a course on combating climate change?
Should public libraries be allowed to ban certain books? If so, what types?
What role, if any, should prayer play in public schools?
Should schools push to abolish homework?
Are gifted and talented programs in schools more harmful than beneficial due to their exclusionary nature?
Should universities do away with Greek life?
Should schools remove artwork, such as murals, that some perceive as offensive?
Should the government grant parents the right to choose alternative education options for their children and use taxpayer funds to support these options?
Is homeschooling better than traditional schooling for children’s academic and social development?
Should we require schools to teach sex education to reduce teen pregnancy rates?
Should we require schools to provide sex education that includes information about both homosexual and heterosexual relationships?
Should colleges use affirmative action and other race-conscious policies to address diversity on campus?
Should public schools remove the line “under God” from the Pledge of Allegiance?
Should college admissions officers be allowed to look at students’ social media accounts?
Should schools abolish their dress codes, many of which unfairly target girls, LGBTQ students, and students of color?
Should schools be required to stock free period products in bathrooms?
Should legacy students receive preferential treatment during the college admissions process?
Are school “voluntourism” trips ethical?

Government Argumentative Essay Topics

Should the U.S. decriminalize prostitution?
Should the U.S. issue migration visas to all eligible applicants?
Should the federal government cancel all student loan debt?
Should we lower the minimum voting age? If so, to what?
Should the federal government abolish all laws penalizing drug production and use?
Should the U.S. use its military power to deter a Chinese invasion of Taiwan?
Should the U.S. supply Ukraine with further military intelligence and supplies?
Should the North and South of the U.S. split up into two regions?
Should Americans hold up nationalism as a critical value?
Should we permit Supreme Court justices to hold their positions indefinitely?
Should Supreme Court justices be democratically elected?
Is the Electoral College still a productive approach to electing the U.S. president?
Should the U.S. implement a national firearm registry?
Is it ethical for countries like China and Israel to mandate compulsory military service for all citizens?
Should the U.S. government implement a ranked-choice voting system?
Should institutions that benefited from slavery be required to provide reparations?
Based on the 1619 project, should history classes change how they teach about the founding of the U.S.?
Should term limits be imposed on Senators and Representatives? If so, how long?
Should women be allowed into special forces units?
Should the federal government implement stronger, universal firearm licensing laws?
Do public sex offender registries help prevent future sex crimes?
Should the government be allowed to regulate family size?
Should all adults legally be considered mandated reporters?
Should the government fund public universities to make higher education more accessible to low-income students?
Should the government fund universal preschool to improve children’s readiness for kindergarten?

Health/Bioethics Argumentative Essay Topics

Should the U.S. government offer its own healthcare plan?
In the case of highly infectious pandemics, should we focus on individual freedoms or public safety when implementing policies to control the spread?
Should we legally require parents to vaccinate their children to protect public health?
Is it ethical for parents to use genetic engineering to create “designer babies” with specific physical and intellectual traits?
Should the government fund research on embryonic stem cells for medical treatments?
Should the government legalize assisted suicide for terminally ill patients?
Should organ donation be mandatory?
Is cloning animals ethical?
Should cancer screenings start earlier? If so, what age?
Is surrogacy ethical?
Should birth control require a prescription?
Should minors have access to emergency contraception?
Should hospitals be for-profit or nonprofit institutions?

Good Argumentative Essay Topics — Continued

Social media argumentative essay topics.

Should the federal government increase its efforts to minimize the negative impact of social media?
Do social media and smartphones strengthen one’s relationships?
Should antitrust regulators take action to limit the size of big tech companies?
Should social media platforms ban political advertisements?
Should the federal government hold social media companies accountable for instances of hate speech discovered on their platforms?
Do apps such as TikTok and Instagram ultimately worsen the mental well-being of teenagers?
Should governments oversee how social media platforms manage their users’ data?
Should social media platforms like Facebook enforce a minimum age requirement for users?
Should social media companies be held responsible for cases of cyberbullying?
Should the United States ban TikTok?
Is social media harmful to children?
Should employers screen applicants’ social media accounts during the hiring process?

Religion Argument Essay Topics

Should religious institutions be tax-exempt?
Should religious symbols such as the hijab or crucifix be allowed in public spaces?
Should religious freedoms be protected, even when they conflict with secular laws?
Should the government regulate religious practices?
Should we allow churches to engage in political activities?
Religion: a force for good or evil in the world?
Should the government provide funding for religious schools?
Is it ethical for healthcare providers to deny abortions based on religious beliefs?
Should religious organizations be allowed to discriminate in their hiring practices?
Should we allow people to opt out of medical treatments based on their religious beliefs?
Should the U.S. government hold religious organizations accountable for cases of sexual abuse within their community?
Should religious beliefs be exempt from anti-discrimination laws?
Should religious individuals be allowed to refuse services to others based on their beliefs or lifestyles? (As in this famous case .)
Should the US ban religion-based federal holidays?
Should public schools be allowed to teach children about religious holidays?

Science Argument Essay Topics

Would the world be safer if we eliminated nuclear weapons?
Should scientists bring back extinct animals? If so, which ones?
Should we hold companies fiscally responsible for their carbon footprint?
Should we ban pesticides in favor of organic farming methods?
Should the federal government ban all fossil fuels, despite the potential economic impact on specific industries and communities?
What renewable energy source should the U.S. invest more money in?
Should the FDA outlaw GMOs?
Should we worry about artificial intelligence surpassing human intelligence?
Should the alternative medicine industry be more stringently regulated?
Is colonizing Mars a viable option?
Is the animal testing worth the potential to save human lives?

Sports Argument Essay Topics

Should colleges compensate student-athletes?
How should sports teams and leagues address the gender pay gap?
Should youth sports teams do away with scorekeeping?
Should we ban aggressive contact sports like boxing and MMA?
Should professional sports associations mandate that athletes stand during the national anthem?
Should high schools require their student-athletes to maintain a certain GPA?
Should transgender athletes compete in sports according to their gender identity?
Should schools ban football due to the inherent danger it poses to players?
Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports?
Do participation trophies foster entitlement and unrealistic expectations?
Should sports teams be divided by gender?
Should professional athletes be allowed to compete in the Olympics?
Should women be allowed on NFL teams?

Technology Argumentative Essay Topics

Should sites like DALL-E compensate the artists whose work it was trained on?
Should the federal government make human exploration of space a more significant priority?
Is it ethical for the government to use surveillance technology to monitor citizens?
Should websites require proof of age from their users? If so, what age?
Should we consider A.I.-generated images and text pieces of art?
Does the use of facial recognition technology violate individuals’ privacy?
Is online learning as effective as in-person learning?
Does computing harm the environment?
Should buying, sharing, and selling collected personal data be illegal?
Are electric cars really better for the environment?
Should car companies be held responsible for self-driving car accidents?
Should private jets be banned?
Do violent video games contribute to real-life violence?

Business Argument Essay Topics

Should the U.S. government phase out the use of paper money in favor of a fully digital currency system?
Should the federal government abolish its patent and copyright laws?
Should we replace the Federal Reserve with free-market institutions?
Is free-market ideology responsible for the U.S. economy’s poor performance over the past decade?
Will cryptocurrencies overtake natural resources like gold and silver?
Is capitalism the best economic system? What system would be better?
Should the U.S. government enact a universal basic income?
Should we require companies to provide paid parental leave to their employees?
Should the government raise the minimum wage? If so, to what?
Should antitrust regulators break up large companies to promote competition?
Is it ethical for companies to prioritize profits over social responsibility?
Should gig-economy workers like Uber and Lyft drivers be considered employees or independent contractors?
Should the federal government regulate the gig economy to ensure fair treatment of workers?
Should the government require companies to disclose the environmental impact of their products?
Should companies be allowed to fire employees based on political views or activities?
Should tipping practices be phased out?
Should employees who choose not to have children be given the same amount of paid leave as parents?
Should MLMs (multi-level marketing companies) be illegal?
Should employers be allowed to factor tattoos and personal appearance into hiring decisions?

In Conclusion – Argument Essay Topics

Using the tips above, you can effectively structure and pen a compelling argumentative essay that will wow your instructor and classmates. Remember to craft a thesis statement that offers readers a roadmap through your essay, draw on your sources wisely to back up any claims, and read through your paper several times before it’s due to catch any last-minute proofreading errors. With time, diligence, and patience, your essay will be the most outstanding assignment you’ve ever turned in…until the next one rolls around.

Looking for more fresh and engaging topics for use in the classroom? You might consider checking out the following:

125 Good Debate Topics for High School Students
150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics
7 Best Places to Study
Guide to the IB Extended Essay
How to Write the AP Lang Rhetorical Analysis Essay
AP Lit Reading List
How to Write the AP Lang Synthesis Essay
49 Most Interesting Biology Research Topics
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Lauren Green

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Definition Essay Guide

Definition Essay Topics

Last updated on: Dec 28, 2022

Interesting Definition Essay Topics for Academic Essay

By: Leanne R.

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: May 4, 2021

Your definition essay does not have to be boring. Though it should present the actual definition of the chosen subject, you can also present some interesting information about the topic. There is no restriction that you should only discuss the dictionary definition of the topic. You need to collect sufficient information from credible sources to make your essay informative and interesting.

However, to write a definition essay, you need to first come up with a good topic. A good definition essay specifically defines an idea, word, term, or concept. It defines the paper topic in a way that becomes easily understandable for the reader. It can be written for both types of words that have concrete or abstract meanings.

Here we have presented a list of interesting topics to help you get started with your definition essay. Check out the list given below and choose the best topic for your essay.

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Good Definition Essay Topics for Students

You might be wondering which are good definition essay topics that you can use for writing your essay. Stop stressing out and have a look at the list given below. We have compiled a list of some amazing definition essay topics for all academic-level students.

Universal definition of love
Importance of self-respect
Capitalism vs. communism
Sense of humor
What is kindness?
How do you define nobility?
What is the meaning of confidence?
How do you define the term freedom?
Define creative writing
Define optimism

Easy Definition Essay Topics for College Student

Define charisma
The versatile feeling of love
Define democracy
What is the dictionary definition of maths?
Define psychology
What is a political party?
Define feminism
What is the meaning of a successful career for you?
What is the meaning of independence to you?
Define terrorism in your own words

Definition Essay Topics for High School

Define Pythagoras theorem
What is millennial?
Define sportsmanship
Define chemistry
Define industrial revolution
How do you define a hero?
What is physical fitness?
Define multiculturalism
Define laziness
Define physics

Interesting Definition Essay Topics

Choosing an interesting topic for your essay is the first step towards writing a successful essay. Once you have an interesting topic in hand, you can easily write a perfect and flawless essay quickly. Here is a list of interesting definition essay topics we have compiled for you.

What is classical music?
Devotion to pets
Heterogeneous vs. homogeneous
Define romance in your own words
Define a correlation between passion and love
What does being a good person mean?
How is artificial intelligence benefitting our lives?
Pros and cons of smartphones?
Describe globalization
Define culture diversity

Definition Argumentative Essay Topics

Who is better, a team player or an individual player?
Define mental health
Pros and cons of using the internet in school and college
What is the meaning of “two sides of a picture.”
What kind of influence do drugs have on children’s brains?
Definition essay on Love vs. hate
Define the term “white privilege.”
Define the clause “beauty with brains.”
Define death penalty
What is happiness?

Controversial Definition Essay Topics

Define the concept of race as a social construct.
How do you define democracy?
The non-importance of money
Unrealistic expectations
What are the main causes of global warming?
What is the purpose of cloning?
The consequences of insane love
How did famous people succeed?
Define racial segregation
What is cheating, and how does it impact a relationship?

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

Extended Definition Essay Topics

Looking for an extended definition essay topic so that you can easily write a long definition essay?

We have got your back!

Here is an amazing extended definition essay topics list for your help. Choose the one that interests you the most.

What is climate change?
Discuss the pastry war
Define ambitions
Define friendship and best friend
Define a dog as an emotional support animal
Define the love of parents
Why do people become drug addicts?
What is cybercrime, and what are its penalties?
Significance of learning social values
What is the meaning of a “balanced diet” and maintaining a “healthy weight.”

Creative Definition Essay Topics

Define literary theme
How to cope with laziness?
Define wisdom
Define anarchism
What makes someone a villain?
Rugby Vs. Football
What makes a culture diverse?
What was the Arab spring?
What makes a good cover story?
Define being free and truly happy

Funny Definition Essay Topics

Money: a source of happiness
How do Robots work?
First breakup
Interpretation of being ugly
What are dreams?
Define contemporary art
Why can’t we feel the movement of the earth?
What is fun for you?
Define the best holiday
Why deserts are better than fruits

Definition Exemplification Essay Topics

In an exemplification definition essay, you are supposed to explain a controversial subject by exploring different perspectives about it. You need to assess the subject thoroughly and then demonstrate it clearly to the reader. Check out the list given below and choose the best definition exemplification essay topic.

What is a cold war?
Define your perspective about dreaming
Define self-development
Define individuality
Define social media
Define maturity
How does an area become polluted?
What is “everyday life”?
Give your perspective about rituals.
Define secularization

Abstract Definition Essay Topics

Unique definition essay topics.

Define the concept of privileged
Free time at work
Why is the customer always right?
Is courage and bravery the same?
How is wisdom different from knowledge?
How to win someone’s trust?
Define honesty
How do you define generosity?
Can people live without the internet?
How to take fewer photographs?

Tough Essay Due? Hire Tough Writers!

Definition Classification Essay Topics

Definition classification essay is a type of academic writing in which the writer has to classify an object, character, or idea. Classification essays are not very popular among professors, so they might not assign you a topic. For your help, we have presented some easy definition classification essay topics here. Check out the list given below.

Define the concept of grief
What was the Spanish inquisition?
What is the importance of voting?
Love of God
Define the term “history.”
What is the meaning of the term “just.”
Traits of a good person
What is peer pressure?
Cause and effects of inflation
Traits of a lazy person

Definition Essay Topics With Multiple Meanings

Natural beauty
Independence
Perfect couple

Definition Persuasive Essay Topics

Define friendship in your own words
Define bravery
How do you define Gothic Romanticism?
What is the concept of the perfect family?
What does “stereotype” mean?
Inhuman things people do
Bad effects of inflation
Pros and cons of e-learning
Business Women
Child marriage

How to Write a Good Definition Essay?

Now that you have a long list of topic ideas, you can easily choose a topic for your essay. After choosing the topic, the next step is to write the definition essay. Here are the steps that you need to follow to write a perfect definition essay.

Thoroughly research the topic of your essay and collect credible information.
Create an essay outline to organize the information
Draft a strong thesis statement that clearly defines your topic
Present the dictionary definition in the introduction paragraph
Use the body paragraphs to explain the essay topic in detail
Compile the details in the conclusion paragraph
Reread and revise your essay to remove all the mistakes and errors
Have someone proofread your essay

Follow these steps and write the perfect definition essay in no time. However, if you feel the need to get help, contact us immediately. 5StarEssays.com is a legal paper writing service that helps students with academic writing.

Our “ write my essay ” service is the perfect option for you, and you can trust us without having a doubt. We provide help with every type of academic writing, i.e., case studies, research papers, term papers, etc.

You can come to us at any time of the day because we are available round the clock. Place your order now and get a perfect definition essay tailored specifically for you according to your instructions.

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How to Write A Definition Essay - Topics and Samples

Breaking Down Concepts: A How-To Guide for Writing Definition Essays

Table of contents

1 What Is a Definition Essay?
2 Choosing the Right Topic
3 What Is the Purpose of a Definition Essay and Creating an Outline?
4.1 Introduction:
4.2 Body Paragraphs:
4.3 Conclusion:
5.1 Understanding the Term Thoroughly
5.2 Use Multiple Sources for Definitions
5.3 Classify the Term
5.4 Separate a Word Into Various Parts
5.5 Begin your essay With a Standard Definition
5.6 Incorporate Your Thesis Early
5.7 Consider Different Viewpoints or Interpretations
5.8 Use Real-Life Examples and Anecdotes:
5.9 Analyze the Term’s Origin and History
5.10 Discuss the Term in Different Contexts
5.11 Compare and Contrast
5.12 Address Common Misconceptions
5.13 Introspection and the Effect of the Defining Term
6 List of Definition Essay Topics
7 Striking the Balance in Academic Writing

The definition essay is one of the most popular types of assignments students can face. Hence, we aim to equip you with the tools to write a definition essay. It will meet academic standards and engage readers with eloquence and insight.

In this article, we will discuss the following:

In this article, we delve into the intricacies of writing a definition essay:
Starting with understanding its purpose and the art of selecting the right topic.
We’ll discuss the significance of brainstorming and outlining before delving into the essay structure.
The writing tips and techniques include understanding the term thoroughly, using multiple sources for definitions, classifying and analyzing the term, incorporating real-life examples, and considering various viewpoints.
Additionally, we’ll cover the importance of addressing common misconceptions and the introspective impact of the defining term.

What Is a Definition Essay?

Definition essays are one of the most popular types of essays .

A definition essay is a type of writing that explains and explores the meaning of a complex, abstract, or multifaceted term. It involves presenting a detailed and personal understanding of the term, often supported by research and examples.

However, a definition essay structure goes beyond the bounds of argumentative or descriptive essays. A definition essay seeks to articulate the essence of a chosen term or concept. Its purpose is to delve into the nuances. Thus, it offers a comprehensive understanding that transcends common usage.

An extended definition essay dissects a subject, providing a nuanced examination. It allows readers to grasp its depth and breadth. Also, it doesn’t argue a point or vividly depict a scene but clarifies and refines understanding. Here, the writer strives to illuminate the chosen term through careful language selection. Consequently, they offer readers a profound insight beyond superficial definitions.

Choosing the Right Topic

The process of choosing the correct definition essay topic necessitates a delicate balance. It must be expansive and engaging. Opt for a captivating concept that seizes the reader’s attention, steering clear of mundane options. Besides, steer clear of defining physical objects. Instead, opt for abstract and complex terms such as “love,” “bravery,” or “happiness.” You can find such concepts in any field and choose something suitable.

These subjects offer fertile ground for in-depth exploration, enabling you to unravel layers of meaning and provide a nuanced perspective. Delving into the abstract empowers your essay to transcend mere dictionary definitions. Thus, you invite readers to intellectual and emotional discovery.

What Is the Purpose of a Definition Essay and Creating an Outline?

Before writing a definition essay, you need to brainstorm and outline the process. Brainstorming generates a pool of ideas, providing a foundation for your essay. The creative springboard sparks innovation and ensures a thoughtful exploration of your topic. Creating an outline for the definition essay serves as the roadmap, organizing thoughts cohesively. It structures your narrative, preventing aimless tangents and enhancing overall clarity. These preliminary steps streamline the writing process. It makes writing a definition essay more efficient and rewarding.

Structuring the Definition Essay

Here is the standard essay structure . If you don’t know how to start a definition essay, these tips will help you.

Introduction:

Starting your introduction requires an engaging approach. The initial segment should captivate the reader’s attention while precisely defining your statement. For this purpose, present the chosen word, explaining a concept essay through the lens of the dictionary definition.

Chart the course of your work, outlining the path you will traverse. Importantly, embed your viewpoint within the thesis, ensuring it reflects your stance on the topic.

We advise you to begin your definition paper with a compelling hook that captivates the reader’s attention:

a surprising fact;
a thought-provoking rhetorical question;
a brief anecdote related to the term you’re defining.

Next, provide the standard dictionary definition of the term. It establishes a baseline understanding for readers. Additionally, present your interpretation through a clear definition essay thesis statement. This thesis is the central idea you will delve into throughout the essay.

Body Paragraphs :

The focal point lies in the main text, which explains how to compose a definition argument essay. It is where your critical information and arguments take center stage. The task involves elucidating and expanding your definition essay thesis with:

diverse personal opinions;
definitions.

Each paragraph in the body of your basic essay should concentrate on a different aspect or component of your definition. Moreover, explore various dimensions of the term. It can be its connotation, denotation, historical context, societal implications, or personal meaning.

Use specific examples and personal anecdotes to illustrate each aspect of your definition. These concrete definition essay examples make abstract concepts more relatable. Besides, consider comparisons and contrasts with similar or opposite concepts to clarify the meaning.

After, acknowledge any complexities or nuances associated with the term. Some terms may have different meanings in various contexts, so exploring these intricacies is crucial.

Indeed, a definitive essay demands specific writing skills and knowledge, and Papers Owl stands ready to assist students. Our experienced writers offer valuable guidance and support. They ensure that each definition essay is meticulously written.

Conclusion:

Summarize the key points discussed in the body paragraphs. Afterward, provide readers with a concise recap of the various aspects of your definition.

The good idea is to sta te your thesis statement for the definition essay in the conclusion. Accordingly, emphasize it with the evidence and examples in the essay’s body.

Write a concluding paragraph with some final thoughts or reflections. Find an example of a definition essay. It could help you. This way, it could involve discussing the importance of understanding the term and its relevance in a broader context. Also, it offers personal definitions and reflections on its significance. By wrapping up with thoughtful insights, you leave the reader with a lasting impression of the term you’ve explored in-depth.

Writing Tips and Techniques for Crafting an Excellent Definition Essay

Understanding the term thoroughly.

Before embarking on a definition essay format, it is paramount to comprehend the chosen term thoroughly. Dive into its complexities, nuances, and various dimensions. It will help to lay the groundwork for a comprehensive exploration.

Use Multiple Sources for Definitions

Rely on diverse sources to define your chosen term. The standard dictionary definition is a starting point. Besides, consulting multiple sources adds depth and richness to your deep understanding. This multifaceted approach ensures a more nuanced portrayal of the term.

Classify the Term

Offer readers clarity by classifying the term based on standard dictionary definitions. Describe the classes and parts of speech. You can create a foundational understanding when dealing with complex words.

Separate a Word Into Various Parts

Consider breaking the specific word down into its parts for complex terms. This approach is especially beneficial when dealing with intricate concepts. Moreover, it can be better comprehended when dissected.

Begin your essay With a Standard Definition

Start your paper by presenting a standard definition in essay introduction. As a rule, it must be sourced from reputable references.

Incorporate Your Thesis Early

Integrate your thesis statement early in the introduction. Remember to articulate your perspective on the term clearly to guide the direction of your essay. This proactive approach sets the tone for the reader, offering a roadmap for what lies ahead.

Consider Different Viewpoints or Interpretations

Acknowledge the diversity of perspectives surrounding the term. Explore various viewpoints and definition essay ideas to present a well-rounded analysis. This inclusivity enriches your essay and demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the term’s multifaceted nature.

Use Real-Life Examples and Anecdotes:

Enhance the relatability of your expository essay by incorporating real-life examples and anecdotes. Illustrate the meaning of the term through tangible scenarios. For this purpose, make abstract definition essay concepts more authentic and engaging for the reader.

Analyze the Term’s Origin and History

Delve into the origin and historical evolution of the term. It will help you create an analytical definition essay.

Discuss the Term in Different Contexts

Explore how the term’s meaning varies in diverse cultural, social, or professional contexts. Highlighting these contextual shifts contributes to a more comprehensive and nuanced exploration.

Compare and Contrast

When applicable, employ comparison and contrast to elucidate the term’s meaning. Also, draw parallels with similar terms or highlight differences with opposing concepts. It adds clarity and depth to your definition.

Address Common Misconceptions

Identify and clarify any common misconceptions about the term. Addressing misunderstandings contributes to a more accurate and informed understanding among your readers.

Introspection and the Effect of the Defining Term

Conclude an essay with introspection by reflecting on the person and broader implications of the defining term. Thus, explore how the term resonates on a personal level. You need to know its impact in broader societal contexts. This conclusion adds a reflective dimension to your essay. It leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

List of Definition Essay Topics

Explore a range of compelling topics for your definition essay. From abstract concepts like love and freedom to concrete ideas like sustainability and democracy, this list offers diverse options for insightful exploration

Defining Emotional Intelligence
What Constitutes True Happiness?
The Essence of Creativity
The Concept of Cultural Heritage
Understanding Social Justice
The Meaning of Home
What is Altruism?
The Definition of Success
Exploring the Idea of Freedom
The True Nature of Courage
What Does ‘Family’ Mean?
The Concept of Wisdom
Defining Personal Growth
The Meaning of Resilience
What is Empathy?
Understanding Sustainability
The Essence of Democracy
The Definition of Innovation
What Constitutes a Hero?
The Concept of Mindfulness
The True Meaning of Leadership
The Nature of Ambition
What is Philanthropy?
Understanding Globalization
The Meaning of Art
The Concept of Justice
What Defines a Community?
The Essence of Integrity
What is Spirituality?
The Definition of Patriotism
Understanding Self-Respect
The Concept of Beauty
What is Wisdom?
The Nature of Addiction
Defining Mental Health
The Meaning of Education
What Constitutes Peace?
The Concept of Power
Understanding Authenticity
The Essence of Passion
What Defines a Role Model?
The Concept of Serenity
Understanding Mindfulness
The Definition of Love
What is Respect?
The Nature of Bravery
Defining a Crisis
The Meaning of Adventure
What Constitutes Wellness?
The Concept of Liberty

Striking the Balance in Academic Writing

This article unraveled the intricacies of crafting a nuanced definition essay. It emphasizes thorough research, diverse perspectives, and illustrative examples. As a key takeaway, mastering this genre requires a blend of precision and creativity. Remember the critical art of balancing active and passive voices in academic writing. Striking this equilibrium ensures clarity, engagement, and a dynamic narrative. While the active voice imparts directness, the passive voice navigates formality.

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Are you looking for some of the best definition essay topics available? If so, you are in the right place. In this blog post, we have discussed great definition paper topics that can help you complete your assignment. Continue reading to understand the meaning of definition essay topics, explore the best way to select one, and get common tips to help you write a quality essay. Our essay writing services have also provided a list of topic ideas on various subjects to guide your research and writing.

What Are Definition Essay Topics?

A definition essay is a paper that explains the meaning of an idea, word, or term. It can also be described as an intricate dictionary that not only defines a term but also provide in-depth explanation and illustrations. Definition essay topics are the primary subject matters in a definition essay. Writers expound on definitions essay topics to inform readers about concepts or explain a word or term that has an abstract meaning. When researching topics for a definition essay, you should explore alternative interpretations from different perspectives. In other words, you can provide both official meaning and your personal interpretation with multiple examples. This type of paper, in many instances, should not be more than 250-500 words long.

Characteristics of Good Definition Essay Topics

Good definition essay topics share some unique characteristics. When selecting a subject matter, you should consider an issue that is simple to write and is interesting to readers. So, what is a good topic for a definition essay? Good definition paper topics should:

Have multiple meanings and interpretations.
Relate to unique word, phrase, or concept that will engage readers.
Discuss a subject that is both interesting and informative.
Relate to subjects that you have many different perspectives on.

How to Choose a Definition Essay Topic?

Topics you select play a key role in determining your success in writing an academic paper. Choosing definition topics can be very challenging. In many cases, instructor will provide you with a list of ideas to pick from. However, in other scenarios, you may be required to research a definition essay topic from scratch. In this section, you will find common tips to guide you in choosing paper topics. Follow the steps below to select a good definition paper topic.

Select good words to write a definition essay on. Avoid words with single meanings.
Pick argumentative phrases and concepts which will enable you to express your writing skills and knowledge on your preferred subject. You should be able to write more than one paragraph on your selected topics.
Check for unique words and phrases that can engage your potential readers.
Develop a list of all possible topics to select from.
Choose a topic you are sure about. Select a topic that you have broad knowledge and points of view on.

It’s always a great idea to consult your professor before commencing a task. But if you need some writing inspiration, take a look below or try our Random Essay Topic Generator .

Best Definition Essay Topics List

Choosing a good topic is your first step towards writing a good academic paper. If you follow tips provided in sections above, you should be able to select some of the best definition essay topics available. Definition essay topic list below outlines great examples that you can choose from.

How can you define fun?
What does affirmative action mean and how is it being used in present-day society?
What is religion?
Define the argument concept.
How do you define social class?
What is artificial intelligence?
Are centralized and decentralized governments any different?
What is a personal understanding of power?
What is cryptocurrency and how does it deviate from the conventional financial system?
What is your understanding of corporate social responsibility?

Definitional Argument Essay Topics

For definition argument essay topics, you need to write about subjects that attract divergent opinions and thus, closely debated. Therefore, rather than having a topic that is straightforward and one-dimensional, definition argument topics should be argumentative in nature. Below are some examples of definitional argument topics in case you don’t know how to title an essay :

Physical activity should be encouraged more in schools.
Explain advantages and disadvantages of capital punishment.
Do high school students benefit from take-away assignments?
Abortion should be a legalized service.
Sex education should be included in school curricula from an early age.
Plastic surgery creates unrealistic beauty standards.
Is working out beneficial to your mental health?
Vaping is more dangerous compared to smoking.
Grading should be abolished in schools.
Genetically modified products are dangerous and should be abolished.
Video games negatively affect children’s social development.
Tertiary education should be free.
Is it ethical to use animals as test subjects?
Euthanizing animals is unethical.
Should vaccination be made mandatory?

Extended Definition Essay Topics

Contrary to other topic categories, extended definition essay topics take up more pages. A simple elucidation will not suffice. You will need to provide elaborate explanations and illustrations for readers to better understand extended definition topics. Below are some examples of extended definition essay topic ideas that you can use:

What does true friendship mean in modern-day society?
What makes a good partner in marriage?
What does misogyny and bigotry mean in the 21st century?
What are the main characteristics of a good leader?
Religious bigotry in Pakistan.
What is your interpretation of a mature individual?
What makes a person trustworthy?
What is your definition of a happy marriage?
What is the difference between ego and high personal standards?
How can you define common sense?
What is a creative mind?
What is a healthy weight?
Who is a patriotic citizen?
Who is an intelligent person to you?
What are the characteristics of a good person?

Need more ideas? Check our blog with extended essay topics and spot a catchy title.

Controversial Definition Paper Topics

Due to people’s divergent opinions, some subjects are very controversial. You risk offending a certain group of your readers when discussing controversial paper ideas. You should, therefore, pay more attention and be keener when discussing them. Below are examples of controversial topics for definition papers:

Ethical justification of death penalty.
Different ages of consent across different cultures.
Is abortion the murdering of an unborn child?
What is the meaning of gun control?
What is social media addiction?
What is the definition of mental disorder in modern society?
Difference between sex and gender.
What is a physician-assisted suicide?
What is the modern interpretation of feminism?
What is a juvenile correctional system in the US?
What laws regulate immigration in America?
What is freedom of speech in the context of modern society?
What are the residency rights of Palestinian in Israeli-occupied Palestinian territories.
What is considered as explicit content in 21st century society?
What is home-schooling and its benefits?

Good Topics for a Definition Essay

To select good topics for definition essays, you need to have a perfect balance of creativity and intellect to come up with a subject that will intrigue your audience. Also, good definition essay topics should be simple to write and not complex to follow for your readers. Below is a list of some good topics:

What does “peace of mind” mean?
What is your perception of poverty in different social classes?
Define different types of art.
What is your personal understanding of love?
What is reverse racism?
What is global warming and how does it impact climate change?
Difference between respect and admiration.
What is your understanding of the term “natural beauty”?
What is the meaning of good parenting?
Define the concept of the rule of law.
Define the right to privacy in the context of modern-day technology.
What does sportsmanship mean?
Explain peer pressure and its impact on school-going children?
What is online shopping?
What is the meaning of the term “gender neutral”?

Once you spot a perfect idea and realize that the deadline is approaching, remember that you can trust professionals and order an essay online at StudyCrumb .

Creative Definition Essay Topics

You need creative definition essay writing topics if you wish to capture your readers’ attention. When exploring definition topic ideas for your essay, you should ensure that it is not only informative but also intriguing. In this section, you will come across some of the most creative topic ideas that you can use to develop a good essay.

What is love at first sight?
What is a respectable job?
How do you differentiate pleasure from happiness?
What is the difference between risk-taking and stupid decisions?
What is courage?
How does high self-esteem differ from arrogance?
What is the meaning of self-respect?
Define creativity and provide different types of creative works.
What is the meaning of a creative mind?
What is a nuclear family and its composition?
Define the concept of best friends.
How can you discern self-respect from pride?
Are religious people more moral?
Why are the best students less successful in life compared to average students?
How do you define dedication in a relationship?

Easy Definition Essay Topics

Complexity of definition essay topics varies depending on students’ academic level or the target reader. For example, a high school student will work on an easy topic for a definition essay compared to a college student. Below are some simple topics for a definition paper:

What is racism?
What does it mean to be a good student?
What is the meaning of term “peer pressure”?
What is the meaning of laziness?
What is greed?
What is the meaning of cyberbullying?
What is classical music?
What is the definition of charisma?
What does it mean to become wealthy?
What exactly is hard work?
How do you keep power?
How can you define the word optimism?
What does the term “ agriculture ” mean?
What is the meaning of indoor sports?
What is the meaning of teamwork?

Definition Essay Ideas for Students

Sometimes, instructors may require students to write a definition essay. Good topics for definition essay should be relevant to the course content or school curriculum in general. Moreover, ideas for definition essays tend to vary depending on the academic level of students and their majors. This section outlines common definition essay topics across the high school and college levels.

Definition Essay Topics for High School

In this section, we will discuss definition essay topics that are suitable for students in grades 9-12. High school definition topics are simpler. Some definition essay topics often relate to grade-specific information. Some of the best topics are outlined below.

Explain the meaning of trust in the context of friendship.
What is the right age to start dating?
Differentiate between knowledge and wisdom.
Define the term “conspiracy theory”.
Differentiate between marriage and cohabitation.
Define the communism concept.
Define consumerism in present-day society.
Define antisemitism.
Discern intellectual from intelligent.
What is the meaning of positive discrimination and how can it be used for the benefit of society?
Differentiate between nature and nurturing in the development of children.
Meaning of avatar in the metaverse.
What is conflict management?
Define Murphy’s Law and how it can be applied in your life.
Discuss the meaning of birth control.

Definition Essay Topics for College Students

Definition essay topics for college students are more advanced. Unlike at the high school level, where topics are not very complex, college students may be expected to research on topics that have multidimensional points of view. Are you finding trouble coming up with topics for definition paper? You can pick one from options provided below.

What is the meaning of Islamophobia?
Define the 3rd wave of feminism.
Define gene therapy and its role in the medical field.
What is the meaning of materialism and how does it vary in different cultures?
Differentiate between communism and capitalism.
How is male and female gaze used differently in cinema?
Define virtual education.
How have beauty standards evolved since the 20th century to the present-day?
Define Xenophobia in American society.
What is multiculturalism and how does it impact modern society?
How does social media affect attractiveness standards?
Define the concept of utilitarianism.
What is the meaning of a marriage in 21st century society?
Define and discuss effects of digital revolution.
What is green energy?

In case you also need ideas for a descriptive essay , we’ve got a blog with a whole assortment of interesting topics.

Definition Essay Prompts

Haven’t found ideas for a definition essay that intrigues you from the options above? Do not worry. There are still many prompts for a definition essay that are discussed in this section. There are many prompt options on multiple subjects to choose from. Ideas for definition essays have been filtered and categorized into various subjects to inspire your academic writing. Depending on your interests and preference, you can select the clearly sorted topics from the categories below.

Definition Essay Topics About Love

Love is a complex subject. The meaning of love and how it is illustrated varies from one person to another. At one point in your life, you must have experienced love. Love is a term that has multiple meanings and varied implications, making it a widely discussed definitional essay topics. Below are some of the popular definition ideas about love.

What types of love do you know?
Define various characteristics of love.
Love between human and non-human.
Define the term “love language”.
Is love at first sight a true phenomenon?
Is parental love automatic?
Is there a difference between love and friendship?
What is the meaning of self-love?
Discuss true love.
Does passion affect a person’s mental health?
What is God’s love?
Define same-sex love.
The meaning of love in different cultural setups around the world.
What is your ideal Valentine’s Day date?
Define the term “soul mate”.

Family Definition Topics

Family is another multidimensional subject that has a wide spectrum of meanings. You can approach the issue from different angles, including family values, members of a family, and other related aspects. Definition paper topics about family should be written in a manner that will make it feel personal to attain optimum reaction from readers. Below is a list of ideas for a definition essay.

What is the structure of a 21st century family?
Effect of teenage pregnancy on families.
Explain child marriage.
How does the concept of family vary across different cultures around the world?
What is the meaning of a nuclear family in present-day society?
Differentiate between an immediate and a chosen family.
How does the increased rate of divorce affect families?
Compare the traditional understanding of family to the modern meaning.
Define family values in today’s society.
How has the internet and technology affected the institution of family?
Differentiate joint families from private families.
How does foster families impact child development?
Define the primary role of a family in your life.
Define the elements of a strong family.
How do financial problems affect the stability of families?

Friendship Definition Essay Prompt Ideas

Friendship is another subject that is very close to many people’s hearts. Most of us have at least one person we call a friend. Relationship dynamics between different friends vary. It is understandable for people to have diverse opinions and strong feelings about the subject. As a result, there are many definition essay prompts on friendship for you to choose from. Some of the definition papers topics include:

Explain the meaning of a true friendship.
How much commitment does true friendship need?
Discuss the concept of “friends with benefit”.
Can you discern friendship from love?
Are friends closer to you than family?
What are the impacts of friends on your personality?
Differentiate between online friends and physical friends.
Define the concept of “best friends forever”.
Is a dog a man’s best friend?
How can you elaborate “friendship zone”?
Define a platonic relationship.
Can family members be friends?
What is the ultimate test of true friendship?
Can you have more than one best friend?
What is your understanding of the phrase “loyal friend”?

Hero Definition Essay Topics

A person’s idea of heroes and their qualities varies from one time to another. Besides, there is no universal standard for categorizing individuals as heroes. You can easily come up with many hero definition topic ideas due to these divergent opinions. Examples of definitive essay topics on this subject include:

Who is a hero?
Explain visual presentation of heroes in the past versus present-day society.
What are some characteristics of a hero?
Discuss the stereotyping of heroes in Hollywood.
Are heroes supposed to perform heroic actions?
Origin of super human abilities as a stereotypical characteristic of a hero.
Mythological versus modern-day heroes.
Differentiate between role models and heroes.
How can heroes inspire you?
Define different types of heroes.
Define the term “anti-hero”.
What is a hero in real life?
Explain how the concept of hero varies from one culture to another.
Is possessing superpowers a mandatory requirement to be a hero?
Define heroes as portrayed in Ancient Greek mythology.

Definition Essay Topics by Subject

Ideas for definition essays can fall into different categories depending on intention or the nature of the paper. We have grouped topics for a definition essay into six categories to simplify the process of selecting your preferred topic. Rather than looking through all definition topics, you can easily focus on the subject that aligns to your academic writing interests.

Business Definition Essay Topics

Below are good topics for a definition essay related to business:

Define economic depression.
What is the meaning of e-commerce?
What is social media marketing?
Define the term “start-up”.
What is the meaning of acquisition, merger?
Define international trade.
What is corporate social responsibility?
What is a business?
Important roles of statistics in business.
What does small and mid-size enterprise mean?

Definition Essay Topics on History

Learning about history is pivotal in ensuring that you are prepared for future events. Some of the best definition essay ideas include:

What is history?
Define the abolitionist movement.
What is the American Civil War?
Define the Arab Spring.
What is independence?
What is colonization?
What was the Civil Rights Movement?
What is a war?
Discuss the Vietnam War.
Define the concept of revolution.

Politics Definition Essay Topics

There are many different political systems in the world. In addition, political leaders have diverse political ideologies. As a result, people approach political science topics from different points of view. Commonly discussed topics for a definition essay include:

What is democracy?
Define federal versus state government.
What is a monarchy?
Define anarchism.
Define the term “whistleblowing”.
What does the term “witch hunt” mean?
Define the Fifth Amendment and efforts to enact it.
What is a totalitarian regime?
What is a political party?
What is a trade union?

Philosophy Definition Essay Topics

Philosophers in the past have been credited for the development of present-day society, government, and the education system. As a result, many philosophical things have been discussed over the years. Below is a list of some common definition topic ideas:

Define devotion.
What is utilitarianism?
What is freedom?
Define humanity.
How do you define justice?
Define beauty.
Define conflict of interest.
How can you explain the term “aura”?
Retribution versus rehabilitation.
Define consciousness.

Definition Essay Topics on Psychology

The study and practice of psychological concepts have increased significantly in the recent past. Below is a list of good definition essay topics related to the subject in case you are also interested:

Define attachment theory.
What does absolute threshold mean?
Explain the placebo effect?
What is a mental disorder?
Define avoidance learning.
What is a conditional reflex?
Define PTSD.
What is emotional intelligence?
Is gender dysphoria a mental disorder?
Define depression.

Technology & Science Definition Essay Topics

With advancements in technology, many people have increased interest in technology and science. The list below outlines definition essay topics that you can use for your paper. Check these ideas or browse these technology research topics if you need more suggestions.

What is clean energy?
Define fossil fuel.
Explain the term “augmented intelligence”.
Define identity theft.
Define virtual assistance software.
Define right to privacy in the current digital era.
What does the technological term “cookies” mean?
What is cloud computing?
What is technology?
Define targeted marketing.

Liked the ideas? We have more blogs dedicated to different title ideas such as expository essay topics , analysis essay topics , satirical essy topics etc. Browse through our articles to find a fitting topic for any assignment.

Bottom Line on Definition Essay Topics

In sum, a definition essay is a common type of an academic paper that requires you to define a word, term, or concept. As a student, you should be able to select good topics for a definition paper. This article provides you with excellent tips to help you in the process of identifying great definition essay topic ideas. In addition, the blog post has many examples of definition essay ideas on various subjects to simplify the writing process for you. This post should increase your chances of success in writing a definition paper.

Our academic writers are the ones you need to look up. Our professionals always deliver high-quality papers on time. Feel free to choose one of the topic ideas and contact StudyCrumb to get your essay done in no time!

FAQ About Definition Paper Topics

1. what are some good definition speech topics.

Not all definition essay topics are suitable for public speech. You should choose a topic that will capture the attention of your audience. Popular definition speech ideas include:

What is the meaning of discipline?
What is the modern-day standard of success?
What are the benefits of electric vehicles?
What is the value of time?

3. What are some great definition essay topic ideas?

This list outlines some great topic for definition essay that you can use for your definition paper.

What is industrialization and how does it affect today’s society?
What is grief?
What does liberalism mean as a political movement?
Define religion and its role in society.
Discuss roles of religion in promoting radicalization.

2. What are popular argumentative definition essay topics?

Good definitional argument topics ideas are characterized by divergent opinions. Example of these topics include:

Define pro-life versus pro-choice.
Define same-sex marriage?
Define patriotism in the context of American society.
Define overpopulation and its danger to earth’s ecosystem.
Define economic disparity across different ethnicities.

Daniel Howard is an Essay Writing guru. He helps students create essays that will strike a chord with the readers.

Definition Essay Topics: Best Ideas for Students

A definition essay explains the meaning of a word or idea, giving a detailed explanation from a particular viewpoint. This article provides a selection of good definition essay topics to help inspire you. You'll find ideas for everyday terms, abstract concepts, and current issues, giving you a range of options to kickstart your essay with confidence.

If you're having trouble picking the right topic for a definition essay or need writing assistance, WritePaper is available to assist. We offer expert support for all kinds of essays, including help with choosing topics and writing guidance.

What Is a Definition Essay?

A definition essay explains a specific term or concept by providing a detailed understanding beyond its dictionary meaning. It clarifies the term's significance, its various uses, and how it differs from similar concepts. Typically, these essays are 500 to 1,000 words, depending on the complexity of the definition essay topics and the depth of the analysis.

Key Components:

Overview of the Term: Start with a concise overview of the term, including its category and distinguishing features. For example, "Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person."
In-Depth Definition: Provide a detailed explanation of the term. This can include its origins, variations, or underlying principles. For instance, "Empathy involves both cognitive and emotional aspects; cognitive empathy is understanding someone's feelings, while emotional empathy is actually sharing those feelings."
Significance and Purpose: Clearly state why the topic for your definition essay is significant and worth discussing. For example, "Understanding empathy is crucial in improving interpersonal relationships and fostering effective communication."
Storytelling: Tell a story or provide examples to illustrate the term.
Detailed Description: Detail specific characteristics or aspects of the term.
Comparative Analysis: Explain how the term differs from or resembles other related terms.
Clarification and Distinctions: Clarify what the term is not to avoid confusion with similar concepts. For instance, "Empathy is not the same as sympathy; sympathy involves feeling pity for someone, while empathy involves sharing their feelings."

How to Choose a Definition Essay Topic?

Selecting a good topic for a definition essay will determine the depth and richness of your writing. Here's how to make the right choice:

Intellectual Curiosity: Look for terms that pique your curiosity. A topic that sparks questions and encourages deeper exploration will make your essay more engaging.
Clarity and Specificity: Opt for a term with a clear, specific meaning that can be thoroughly defined. Avoid overly broad or vague terms that could lead to a generalized essay. For instance, instead of choosing "love," which is very broad, you might choose "romantic love" to provide a more focused exploration.
Complexity and Nuance: Choose a term with multiple meanings or interpretations. This will allow you to delve into different perspectives and offer a more nuanced definition. Terms like "freedom" or "success" offer opportunities to discuss different dimensions and viewpoints.
Audience Consideration: Think about your audience's knowledge and interests. Topics for a definition essay that are both informative and relevant to your readers will make your essay more impactful.
Avoid the Obvious: While it's tempting to choose a well-known term, try to find good definition essay topics that offer a unique angle or perspective. This will make your essay stand out from the crowd.

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Definition Essay Topics List

To get you started, here's a list of definition essay topics from different categories. These topics are meant to give you a good starting point for exploring different terms. Whether you're interested in abstract ideas, everyday words, or specialized terms, these definition essay topics examples cover a variety of ideas to inspire your essay. Choose one that stands out to you, and you'll be set to create a meaningful and engaging piece.

Extended Definition Essay Topics

If you want to go beyond the basics, these extended definition essay topics invite you to explore terms that have multiple meanings, are often misunderstood, or have evolved over time. They're perfect for essays that require in-depth analysis.

What does it mean to be "ethical" in decision-making?
How is "beauty" defined across different cultures and time periods?
What is "trust," and how is it built or broken?
How do we define "responsibility" in a globalized world?
What does "integrity" mean in personal and professional life?
What does it truly mean to be "successful" in life?
How can we define "happiness" in a modern context?
What constitutes "courage" in the face of adversity?
How is "freedom" understood in different cultures?
What does "loyalty" mean in relationships today?
How can we define "justice" in a complex society?
What is the essence of "love" in human connections?
How should we define "intelligence" beyond academic achievement?
What is the meaning of "honor" in contemporary times?
How can we define "community" in the digital age?

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Definition Argument Essay Topics

In a definition argument essay, you're setting out to defend your unique interpretation. By making an argument for definition essay topics, your words will have the power to persuade and influence.

Should the term "patriotism" be redefined in today's globalized world?
Is "artificial intelligence" truly intelligent, or should we redefine what intelligence means?
Does "privacy" still exist in the digital age, or should the concept be redefined?
Is "addiction" limited to substances, or should it include behaviors like social media use?
Should the term "hero" apply to all frontline workers, or should it be more exclusive?
Is "feminism" about gender equality, or has its definition evolved over time?
Does "success" need to be redefined in the context of work-life balance?
Should "freedom of speech" be redefined to account for hate speech and misinformation?
Is "mental illness" too broadly defined in today's society?
Should "family" be redefined to include non-traditional structures?
Is "democracy" still the best term to describe modern political systems?
Should the definition of "terrorism" include cyber-attacks and other non-violent threats?
Does the term "education" need to be redefined to include lifelong learning beyond formal institutions?
Should "success" in education be defined by more than just academic achievement?
Is "sustainable development" accurately defined, or does it need a broader scope?

Definition Essay Topics for College

Here are great definition essay topics perfect for demonstrating your critical thinking skills and ability to engage with scholarly discourse.

What does "academic integrity" mean in today's educational environment?
How can we define "success" in the context of a college education?
What is "critical thinking," and why is it essential for college students?
How should "mental health" be understood in the context of college life?
What does "independence" mean for students transitioning to college?
How can we define "leadership" within a student organization or group project?
What is the true meaning of "lifelong learning" in higher education?
How do we define "diversity" in the context of a college campus?
What constitutes "effective communication" in academic and social settings?
What does "professionalism" mean for college students preparing for the workforce?
How should "ethical research" be defined in college-level studies?
What is "time management," and why is it crucial for college success?
How can we define "academic freedom" in higher education?
What does "civic responsibility" mean for college students?
How do we define "resilience" in the face of academic challenges?

Definition Speech Topics

These definition speech topics offer a unique opportunity to educate your audience while sparking discussion.

What is "a good listener," and what qualities make someone a good listener?
How do we define "contentment" in everyday life?
What does "integrity" mean in personal and professional relationships?
How can we define "commitment" in family and friendships?
What is "bravery," and how does it manifest in everyday actions?
What does "reliability" mean in relationships, and how is it built?
How should we define "accountability" in a school or work setting?
What constitutes "courtesy" in social interactions?
How can we define "helpfulness" in our daily behaviors?
What is "collaboration," and why is it important in group activities?
What does "tolerance" mean, and how can it be practiced?
How do we define "imagination" in school or hobbies?
What is "thoughtfulness," and how can it be shown in simple ways?
How can we define "determination" in the context of achieving goals?
What does "self-control" mean, and why is it important in personal growth?

Controversial Definition Essay Topics

If you want to stir up conversation and challenge your thinking, check out these definition essay topics that are controversial and highly debated.

Should the term "marriage" be redefined to include all forms of partnerships?
Is "free speech" truly free if it includes hate speech?
Does "gender" need to be redefined to include non-binary identities?
Should "patriotism" be considered inherently nationalistic, or can it be more inclusive?
Is "racism" limited to individual acts, or should it include systemic issues?
Should "criminal" apply equally to white-collar and blue-collar offenses?
Does "religious freedom" include the right to discriminate against others?
Should "beauty" be redefined to move away from traditional standards?
Is "terrorism" exclusively associated with certain religions or ethnic groups, or does it need a broader definition?
Should "feminism" include men's rights issues, or is it exclusively about women?
Is "mental illness" over-diagnosed in today's society, leading to a broader, controversial definition?
Should "justice" be redefined to account for disparities in socioeconomic status?
Does "addiction" need to include non-substance-related dependencies like technology?
Should the definition of "life" include the unborn, or is it limited to post-birth?
Is "privilege" accurately defined, or does it oversimplify complex social dynamics?

Abstract Definition Essay Topics

For tackling some mind-bending topics, these abstract ideas will challenge your thinking and spark deep discussions.

What is the true meaning of "hope" in human experience?
How can we define "wisdom" beyond mere knowledge?
What does "faith" mean in a secular world?
How is "creativity" understood beyond artistic expression?
What constitutes "peace" in the inner self?
How can we define "authenticity" in personal identity?
What does "destiny" signify in the context of free will?
How do we define "compassion" in a world of increasing self-interest?
What is the essence of "humility" in personal growth?
How can we understand "time" beyond its scientific measurement?
What does "grace" mean in human relationships?
How do we define "charisma" in leadership and influence?
What is "fear" when stripped of its physical manifestations?
How can we define "justice" as an ideal separate from legal systems?
What does "truth" mean in a world of subjective realities?

For valuable tips on integrating multiple sources, check out our detailed guide on how to write a synthesis essay .

Easy Definition Essay Topics

Less abstract and more grounded in everyday experiences, these easy definition essay topics offer a solid starting point.

What is "empathy," and why is it important in human interactions?
How can we define "success" in a rapidly changing world?
What does "leadership" mean in different cultural contexts?
How is "freedom" understood across various societies?
What is the meaning of "courage" in overcoming personal challenges?
How do we define "innovation" in today's technology-driven environment?
What constitutes "happiness" in modern life?
How should "justice" be understood in both legal and moral terms?
What does "diversity" mean in a globalized world?
How can we define "creativity" in both art and problem-solving?
What is "honesty," and why is it valued in relationships?
How do we define "success" in personal versus professional life?
What does "compassion" mean in a world of increasing self-interest?
How is "responsibility" understood in the context of environmental stewardship?
What constitutes "community" in both physical and digital spaces?

While you're here, check out our guide on how to title an essay that grabs attention and sets the stage for your paper.

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Definition Essay Topic Ideas by Category

This list has a wide range of definition essay example topics, ranging from the everyday to the thought-provoking. Whether you're drawn to daily life, big ideas, or current issues, you'll find something here to fuel your writing.

Topics for Definition Essay About Culture

What is the true meaning of cultural identity?
How do we define cultural assimilation?
What does "multiculturalism" mean in contemporary society?
How should we understand the concept of "cultural heritage"?
What defines a cultural tradition?
How can we define "popular culture" in the modern world?
What is the meaning of cultural relativism?
How do we define "cultural appropriation"?
What constitutes a "subculture" within a society?
How should we understand the term "cultural diversity"?

Definition Essay Ideas About Healthcare

Is preventive care the cornerstone of a healthy society?
What is the true meaning of "quality healthcare"?
What role does technology play in revolutionizing healthcare?
Is healthcare a fundamental human right?
How does healthcare policy influence patient outcomes?
Is alternative medicine a viable option for healthcare?
What is the impact of healthcare disparities on marginalized communities?
Is the cost of healthcare a barrier to quality care?
How do we define a "healthy lifestyle"?
Is the healthcare system prepared for future challenges?

Definition Essay Topics About Environment

What is the true meaning of "sustainability"?
How do we define "climate change"?
What is the difference between pollution and environmental degradation?
How do we define "biodiversity"?
What is the role of conservation in environmental protection?
How do we define "renewable energy"?
What is the difference between global warming and climate change?
How do we define "ecosystem services"?
What is the role of technology in environmental protection?
How do we define "environmental justice"?

Definition Essay Ideas About History

What defines a historical revolution?
How can we define the concept of "civilization" in historical studies?
What does "imperialism" mean in the context of global history?
How should we understand the term "cultural heritage" in history?
What is the true meaning of "historical legacy"?
How do we define a "golden age" in historical terms?
What constitutes a "turning point" in history?
How can we define "historical progress"?
What does "nationalism" mean in a historical context?
How should we define "historical memory"?

If you're ready to get started on your paper, take advantage of our history essay writing service .

Definition Essay Topics About Business

What is the true meaning of entrepreneurship?
How can we define business ethics in the modern corporate world?
What constitutes a successful business model?
What does "corporate social responsibility" really mean?
How do we define a startup in today's economy?
What is the meaning of business innovation?
How should we understand the term "market competition" in a globalized economy?
What defines a sustainable business?
How can we accurately define "customer satisfaction" in the business context?
What does "corporate culture" truly mean in a business setting?

To sum up what we've covered, here are the main points for choosing a good definition essay topic:

The term or concept should have multiple meanings.
It should be specific rather than general.
Pick a topic that interests you.
Choose something you are familiar with.
Analyze the concept thoroughly, including its origins and common meanings.
Consider exploring the history of the term and its past versions.
You might also look into topics related to society or sports. Be sure to include different explanations in your research.

Choosing a topic for a definition essay can be challenging, and crafting the essay itself can be even harder. It requires strong skills, a deep understanding of the topic, and a significant amount of time. Fortunately, there are many interesting definition essay topics for college students.

If you're feeling overwhelmed or pressed for time, don't worry! If you need help creating your essay or aren't sure where to start, our team at WritePaper is here to assist. You can rely on writers to help you achieve an excellent result!

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100 Intersting Definition Essay Topics

Students all over the world look for definition essay topics at some points of their academic lives. The reason for this is simple: they got an assignment and are now worried about getting it done. There are a number of challenges connected with this task, and for doing everything correctly, you have to have a clear idea of what you’re doing. At first, it is important to figure out what definition essay is . It’s a genre of writing where you present, explain, and elaborate on some idea, concept, or object. If you check any definition essay topics list, you’ll see that it could be anything, from feelings to technical instruments and philosophical concepts.

Why are such tasks important? They give writers a chance to look at a specific subject from a much deeper perspective than they’re used to, and such practice will be useful in their future life. For example, you might have always known what love is, but have you dwelled on all its meanings? Did you know where the word itself came from and how people’s understanding of it differs depending on their circumstances? A paper like this lets you get a definitive answer. Choice of topic is extremely important, so knowing how to pick it is crucial.

Selecting Extended Definition Essay Topics

Deciding on a topic for an essay could look like a piece of cake, but in reality, it’s a complex process. You must select something interesting, educational, and academic in nature. Can you readily think of such themes? Probably not. With tips outlined below, making a choice will be easier!

Choose interesting, not boring. The worst mistake students could do is pick a topic they’ll hate. There are many definition essay ideas, and while some might seem easier than others, it doesn’t mean you should go for them. Be sure you like your topic and want to explore it. This will help you feel inspiration when you’re writing, so the process will not only be interesting to you, but to your readers as well.
Brainstorm. Discussing topics with friends or classmates is always a great idea. For one thing, you might find a sense of direction for your own essay. For another, you could make certain that you pick a unique topic. Very often, professors receive works dedicated to identical issues, and while it’s not always frowned upon, this is still a situation that should be avoided. You won’t want to be accused of plagiarism when you’ve put honest efforts into your essay.
Compare the topic against the word count. Some definition essay prompts are more substantial than others. Defining the concept of family could take 5 or even 10 pages, but something like a word “table” wouldn’t let you move farther than 1 or 2. So, think carefully. If you were told to write 1200 words, select a topic accordingly.
Check availability of sources. Be sure to check instructions or even a template if it’s available: professors often provide them to make their students’ writing easier. Are the number of sources indicated there? Most essays of academic level have to be based on credible support. That includes peer-reviewed articles, scientific books, and official sites with tested information.

100 Best Definition Paper Topics

A way to choose an appropriate topic is to look through different helpful lists. We’ve prepared one specifically for you. If you are in search of inspiration and cannot settle on an idea you’d like, check options below. There are 10 categories with 10 topics in each: think about which appeals to you more and feel free to pick anything that sounds good.

Family Definition Essay Ideas

Love and family often go together, but family life also has numerous problems. Choose any of these definition essay topics for college and explore this concept from the angle you like.

An Image of a Perfect Family: Define How It Looks From Your Perspective
Common American Family: What Does This Image Include?
What Does Being Teenage Parents Mean & How and Why It Happens?
Stepfather: Who Is He & What Role Does He Play?
Being a Mother: Concept, Responsibility, and Purpose
Who Are Abusive Parents and What Criteria Should Be Met to Be Defined as Such?
How Could Traditional Family Values Be Defined?
Families with Multiple Children: What Single Definition Unites Them?
Elaborate on the Concept of Being an Orphan: What Does This Mean?
In What Cases Does the Word “Dysfunctional” Apply to Families?

Love and Friendship Topics for Definition Essays

Almost every person has or had friends. These good definition essay topics will help you research this term as you see fit.

Love as Understood in Families Around the World: How Do Religion and Culture Affect Its Definition?
Romantic Attraction: What Feelings and Experiences Define It?
How I Understand the Idea of Having a Best Friend
Friendship Among Politicians as a Unique Phenomenon
How Would You Define Unhealthy Relationships?
Co-dependency: What Is It, What Causes It, & What This Leads To
Romantic Obsession: What Defines This Concept and How It Emerges?
Understanding Friendship: What Do Different Populations Say About It?
Parental Love and Its Inherency: How Do People Understand It?
Friendship between Men and Women: In What Ways Does It Exist?

Freedom Definition Essay Prompts

Who doesn’t want to be free? With these definition essay topics examples, you could make your point known.

What Freedom Means to Americans vs. the Rest of the World
How Do People Who Work All Their Lives Define Freedom?
Freedom for Prisoners: What Features Does This Idea Entail?
Limitations In School: What Are They?
Correlation between Concepts of Freedom and Personal Satisfaction
How Was Freedom Perceived During WW2?
Breaks at School: Why Have They Been Created?
Slavery in the Modern World, Its History, & Changing Reasons That Cause It
Money in the Context of Freedom
What Is Your Unique Understanding of Being Free?

This category is full of easy definition essay topics because happiness is a very universal concept that most people can understand.

Provide Your Personal View on What Being Happy Means
Define Connection between Dreams and Happiness
How Could Ancient People Perceive Freedom vs. How It is Understood Now
What Are Expectations in Terms of Happiness?
Helping Others to Feel Happy: Define This Phenomenon and Provide Explanation
How Does a Happy American Normally Look Like?
Suffering from Depression: What Does This Issue Mean in Relation to Happiness?
Characteristics of Being Unhappy
Concept of Joy as Understood in Developed & Underdeveloped Countries
Define Happiness Like It Is Seen by Families as Unites

Business Topics for Definition Essay

There are diverse topics for a definition essay in the sphere of business. If you are interested in learning how the world works and what money making entails, you might like some of these.

Define the Word Business by Explaining It & Analyzing Its Background
How Do You Personally Understand the Concept of Business?
Transition From Being Employed to Losing Job: Define & Explain It
Good Salary: What Would It Be in Modern America?
Merging between Companies: Explain What This Process Implies
What Are Start-Ups & How Is Their Success Defined?
Explain What Bankruptcy Is
What Is Definition of Social Packages and Why Do They Exist?
What Does Being Fired Mean?
Explain Maternal Leave and Rules That Surround It

Science and IT Definition Prompts

Science and IT are pretty complicated sectors, but they have lots of fascinating definition essay example topics, especially if this is something you have passion for.

Explain What Windows Is Like You Would to Newbies
What Concepts and Directions Does Math Include?
Cell Phones: Their Old & New Versions and How the Concept Has Evolved Over Time
Artificial Intelligence: What This Phenomenon Means & How It Came to Be
Internet as One of the Most Complex and Widest Concepts in Modern Times
Explain the Job of a Programmer: Which Aspects Are Included Into It?
What Defines Smartphone?
E-Learning: What Caused This and How You Would Define It?
Branch of Physics: Talk About Its Meaning
Define Laptops and Underline How They Differ From Computers

Definition Essay Topics For College Students

College presupposes tasks with a certain level of complexity. These definition argument topics correspond to it.

What Is Paragraph in Accordance with Academic Standards?
How Is Education Understood These Days?
Explain Relevance & Meaning of Part-Time Education
Role of Literature in Our Technology-Based World
What Does Having a Degree Mean Today?
Discuss the Idea Behind Plagiarism: Concept, Dangers, Reasons, & Impacts
Define Heteronormativity and Share Information about Its Origins
Brand Loyalty: What Could People Derive From This Concept?
Reveal the Core & Reasons of Fascism
Does Nobility Still Exist & How Could It Be Explained?

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Easy Definition Essays Topics

Sometimes students don’t want to spend too much time on their work. In such instances, easy and funny definition essay topics apply.

Poverty: How Do People From Different Social Classes Perceive It?
Define Home Along with Everything This Concept Entails
What Is Art and How Does Modern Concept Differ From the Past?
How Would You Define Personal & Global Success?
What Inspired Fanfiction & Who Are People Interested in Writing in This Genre?
Explain the Concept Behind Your Favorite TV Show
Most Perfect Teacher in the World: How Should They Look Like?
How Do Teenagers Perceive Popularity and What Meaning This Understanding Holds for Them?
Define Your Favorite Piece of Music
How Should Social Media Be Defined?

Creative Ideas

Some people are bursting with desire to do things differently. If you’d like creative definition essay topics, check these out.

What Does a Self-Publishing Process Entail & What Meaning Does It Have?
Talk About Polygamous People & What This Implies
What Is Wedding & Which Attributes Represent It?
All Types of Bed-Sharing: Discuss Them with Examples
Ghosts: What Are They & When Did People Start Talking About Them?
Good Sleep: How Many Hours Are needed & What Dreams Are Preferable
What Are Online Trolls?
Explain Laptop Freezing, Its Causes, & Reactions This Problem Evokes
Rainbow Flag: Where Did It Come From & What Meaning Does It Hold?
“Supernatural” Concept: Explain This Idea

Extended Definition Essays Ideas

Some definitions could be extended to cover more complex or general ideas. These definition paragraph topics will show you how it could be done.

Being Miserable and Committing Crimes: Define Link Between These Concepts
Pick Any Three Related Concepts and Elaborate On Them
Life in Abusive Households & Becoming Abusive: What Do They Mean?
What Is Laziness & Ways of Its Expression
Define Having a Selfish Nature
Weak Teachers: How Would You Explain This Occurrence?
What Is the Best Definition for Coldness as Personal Trait?
Human Sexuality and All Its Sides
Phobias: Explain Concept & Define Its Elements
How Can Segregation Be Understood?

Pick Great Definition Speech Topics and Learn Beauty of Writing

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50 Great Argumentative Essay Topics for Any Assignment

General Education

At some point, you’re going to be asked to write an argumentative essay. An argumentative essay is exactly what it sounds like—an essay in which you’ll be making an argument, using examples and research to back up your point.

But not all argumentative essay topics are created equal. Not only do you have to structure your essay right to have a good impact on the reader, but even your choice of subject can impact how readers feel about your work.

In this article, we’ll cover the basics of writing argumentative essays, including what argumentative essays are, how to write a good one, and how to pick a topic that works for you. Then check out a list of argumentative essay ideas to help you get started.

What Is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is one that makes an argument through research. These essays take a position and support it through evidence, but, unlike many other kinds of essays, they are interested in expressing a specific argument supported by research and evidence.

A good argumentative essay will be based on established or new research rather than only on your thoughts and feelings. Imagine that you’re trying to get your parents to raise your allowance, and you can offer one of two arguments in your favor:

You should raise my allowance because I want you to.

You should raise my allowance because I’ve been taking on more chores without complaining.

The first argument is based entirely in feelings without any factual backup, whereas the second is based on evidence that can be proven. Your parents are more likely to respond positively to the second argument because it demonstrates that you have done something to earn the increased allowance. Similarly, a well-researched and reasoned argument will show readers that your point has a basis in fact, not just feelings.

The standard five-paragraph essay is common in writing argumentative essays, but it’s not the only way to write one. An argumentative essay is typically written in one of two formats, the Toulmin model or the Rogerian model.

The Toulmin model is the most common, comprised of an introduction with a claim (otherwise known as a thesis), with data to support it. This style of essay will also include rebuttals, helping to strengthen your argument by anticipating counterarguments.

The Rogerian model analyzes two sides of an argument and reaches a conclusion after weighing the strengths and weaknesses of each.

Both essay styles rely on well-reasoned logic and supporting evidence to prove a point, just in two different ways.

The important thing to note about argumentative essays as opposed to other kinds of essays is that they aim to argue a specific point rather than to explain something or to tell a story. While they may have some things in common with analytical essays, the primary difference is in their objective—an argumentative essay aims to convince someone of something, whereas an analytical essay contextualizes a topic with research.

What Makes a Good Argumentative Essay?

To write an effective argumentative essay, you need to know what a good one looks like. In addition to a solid structure, you’ll need an argument, a strong thesis, and solid research.

An Argument

Unlike other forms of essays, you are trying to convince your reader of something. You’re not just teaching them a concept or demonstrating an idea—you’re constructing an argument to change the readers’ thinking.

You’ll need to develop a good argument, which encompasses not just your main point, but also all the pieces that make it up.

Think beyond what you are saying and include how you’re saying it. How will you take an idea and turn it into a complex and well thought out argument that is capable of changing somebody’s mind?

A Strong Thesis

The thesis is the core of your argument. What specific message are you trying to get across? State that message in one sentence, and that will be your thesis.

This is the foundation on which your essay is built, so it needs to be strong and well-reasoned. You need to be able to expand on it with facts and sources, not just feelings.

A good argumentative essay isn’t just based on your individual thoughts, but research. That can be citing sources and other arguments or it can mean direct research in the field, depending on what your argument is and the context in which you are arguing it.

Be prepared to back your thesis up with reporting from scientific journals, newspapers, or other forms of research. Having well-researched sources will help support your argument better than hearsay or assumptions. If you can’t find enough research to back up your point, it’s worth reconsidering your thesis or conducting original research, if possible.

How to Come Up With an Argumentative Essay Topic

Sometimes you may find yourself arguing things you don’t necessarily believe. That’s totally fine—you don’t actually have to wholeheartedly believe in what you’re arguing in order to construct a compelling argument.

However, if you have free choice of topic, it’s a good idea to pick something you feel strongly about. There are two key components to a good argumentative essay: a strong stance, and an assortment of evidence. If you’re interested and feel passionate about the topic you choose, you'll have an easier time finding evidence to support it, but it's the evidence that's most important.

So, to choose a topic, think about things you feel strongly about, whether positively or negatively. You can make a list of ideas and narrow those down to a handful of things, then expand on those ideas with a few potential points you want to hit on.

For example, say you’re trying to decide whether you should write about how your neighborhood should ban weed killer, that your school’s lunch should be free for all students, or that the school day should be cut by one hour. To decide between these ideas, you can make a list of three to five points for each that cover the different evidence you could use to support each point.

For the weed killer ban, you could say that weed killer has been proven to have adverse impacts on bees, that there are simple, natural alternatives, and that weeds aren’t actually bad to have around. For the free lunch idea, you could suggest that some students have to go hungry because they can’t afford lunch, that funds could be diverted from other places to support free lunch, and that other items, like chips or pizza, could be sold to help make up lost revenue. And for the school day length example, you could argue that teenagers generally don’t get enough sleep, that you have too much homework and not enough time to do it, and that teenagers don’t spend enough time with their families.

You might find as you make these lists that some of them are stronger than others. The more evidence you have and the stronger you feel that that evidence is, the better the topic. Of course, if you feel that one topic may have more evidence but you’d rather not write about it, it’s okay to pick another topic instead. When you’re making arguments, it can be much easier to find strong points and evidence if you feel passionate about our topic than if you don't.

50 Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

If you’re struggling to come up with topics on your own, read through this list of argumentative essay topics to help get you started!

Should fracking be legal?
Should parents be able to modify their unborn children?
Do GMOs help or harm people?
Should vaccinations be required for students to attend public school?
Should world governments get involved in addressing climate change?
Should Facebook be allowed to collect data from its users?
Should self-driving cars be legal?
Is it ethical to replace human workers with automation?
Should there be laws against using cell phones while driving?
Has the internet positively or negatively impacted human society?

Should college athletes be paid for being on sports teams?
Should coaches and players make the same amount of money?
Should sports be segregated by gender?
Should the concept of designated hitters in baseball be abolished?
Should US sports take soccer more seriously?
Should religious organizations have to pay taxes?
Should religious clubs be allowed in schools?
Should “one nation under God” be in the pledge of allegiance?
Should religion be taught in schools?
Should clergy be allowed to marry?
Should minors be able to purchase birth control without parental consent?
Should the US switch to single-payer healthcare?
Should assisted suicide be legal?
Should dietary supplements and weight loss items like teas be allowed to advertise through influencers?
Should doctors be allowed to promote medicines?

Government/Politics

Is the electoral college an effective system for modern America?
Should Puerto Rico become a state?
Should voter registration be automatic?
Should people in prison be allowed to vote?
Should Supreme Court justices be elected?
Should sex work be legalized?
Should Columbus Day be replaced with Indigenous Peoples’ Day?
Should the death penalty be legal?
Should animal testing be allowed?
Should drug possession be decriminalized?

Should unpaid internships be legal?
Should minimum wage be increased?
Should monopolies be allowed?
Is universal basic income a good idea?
Should corporations have a higher or lower tax rate?
Are school uniforms a good idea?
Should PE affect a student’s grades?
Should college be free?
Should Greek life in colleges be abolished?
Should students be taught comprehensive sex ed?

Arts/Culture

Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?
Should books with objectionable words be banned?
Should content on YouTube be better regulated?
Is art education important?
Should art and music sharing online be allowed?

How to Argue Effectively

A strong argument isn’t just about having a good point. If you can’t support that point well, your argument falls apart.

One of the most important things you can do in writing a strong argumentative essay is organizing well. Your essay should have a distinct beginning, middle, and end, better known as the introduction, body and opposition, and conclusion.

This example follows the Toulmin model—if your essay follows the Rogerian model, the same basic premise is true, but your thesis will instead propose two conflicting viewpoints that will be resolved through evidence in the body, with your conclusion choosing the stronger of the two arguments.

Introduction

Your hook should draw the reader’s interest immediately. Questions are a common way of getting interest, as well as evocative language or a strong statistic

Don’t assume that your audience is already familiar with your topic. Give them some background information, such as a brief history of the issue or some additional context.

Your thesis is the crux of your argument. In an argumentative essay, your thesis should be clearly outlined so that readers know exactly what point you’ll be making. Don’t explain all your evidence in the opening, but do take a strong stance and make it clear what you’ll be discussing.

Your claims are the ideas you’ll use to support your thesis. For example, if you’re writing about how your neighborhood shouldn’t use weed killer, your claim might be that it’s bad for the environment. But you can’t just say that on its own—you need evidence to support it.

Evidence is the backbone of your argument. This can be things you glean from scientific studies, newspaper articles, or your own research. You might cite a study that says that weed killer has an adverse effect on bees, or a newspaper article that discusses how one town eliminated weed killer and saw an increase in water quality. These kinds of hard evidence support your point with demonstrable facts, strengthening your argument.

In your essay, you want to think about how the opposition would respond to your claims and respond to them. Don’t pick the weakest arguments, either— figure out what other people are saying and respond to those arguments with clearly reasoned arguments.

Demonstrating that you not only understand the opposition’s point, but that your argument is strong enough to withstand it, is one of the key pieces to a successful argumentative essay.

Conclusions are a place to clearly restate your original point, because doing so will remind readers exactly what you’re arguing and show them how well you’ve argued that point.

Summarize your main claims by restating them, though you don’t need to bring up the evidence again. This helps remind readers of everything you’ve said throughout the essay.

End by suggesting a picture of a world in which your argument and action are ignored. This increases the impact of your argument and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

A strong argumentative essay is one with good structure and a strong argument , but there are a few other things you can keep in mind to further strengthen your point.

When you’re crafting an argument, it can be easy to get distracted by all the information and complications in your argument. It’s important to stay focused—be clear in your thesis and home in on claims that directly support that thesis.

Be Rational

It’s important that your claims and evidence be based in facts, not just opinion. That’s why it’s important to use reliable sources based in science and reporting—otherwise, it’s easy for people to debunk your arguments.

Don’t rely solely on your feelings about the topic. If you can’t back a claim up with real evidence, it leaves room for counterarguments you may not anticipate. Make sure that you can support everything you say with clear and concrete evidence, and your claims will be a lot stronger!

What’s Next?

No matter what kind of essay you're writing, a strong plan will help you have a bigger impact. This guide to writing a college essay is a great way to get started on your essay organizing journey!

Brushing up on your essay format knowledge to prep for the SAT? Check out this list of SAT essay prompts to help you kickstart your studying!

A bunch of great essay examples can help you aspire to greatness, but bad essays can also be a warning for what not to do. This guide to bad college essays will help you better understand common mistakes to avoid in essay writing!

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Melissa Brinks graduated from the University of Washington in 2014 with a Bachelor's in English with a creative writing emphasis. She has spent several years tutoring K-12 students in many subjects, including in SAT prep, to help them prepare for their college education.

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50 Argumentative Essay Topics

Illustration by Catherine Song. ThoughtCo.

M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
B.A., History, Armstrong State University

An argumentative essay requires you to decide on a topic and argue for or against it. You'll need to back up your viewpoint with well-researched facts and information as well. One of the hardest parts is deciding which topic to write about, but there are plenty of ideas available to get you started. Then you need to take a position, do some research, and present your viewpoint convincingly.

Choosing a Great Argumentative Essay Topic

Students often find that most of their work on these essays is done before they even start writing. This means that it's best if you have a general interest in your subject. Otherwise, you might get bored or frustrated while trying to gather information. You don't need to know everything, though; part of what makes this experience rewarding is learning something new.

It's best if you have a general interest in your subject, but the argument you choose doesn't have to be one that you agree with.

The subject you choose may not necessarily be one you are in full agreement with, either. You may even be asked to write a paper from the opposing point of view. Researching a different viewpoint helps students broaden their perspectives.

Ideas for Argument Essays

Sometimes, the best ideas are sparked by looking at many different options. Explore this list of possible topics and see if a few pique your interest. Write those down as you come across them, then think about each for a few minutes.

Which would you enjoy researching? Do you have a firm position on a particular subject? Is there a point you would like to make sure you get across? Did the topic give you something new to think about? Can you see why someone else may feel differently?

List of 50 Possible Argumentative Essay Topics

A number of these topics are rather controversial—that's the point. In an argumentative essay , opinions matter, and controversy is based on opinions. Just make sure your opinions are backed up by facts in the essay. If these topics are a little too controversial or you don't find the right one for you, try browsing through persuasive essay and speech topics as well.

Is global climate change caused by humans?
Is the death penalty effective?
Is the U.S. election process fair?
Is torture ever acceptable?
Should men get paternity leave from work?
Are school uniforms beneficial?
Does the U.S. have a fair tax system?
Do curfews keep teens out of trouble?
Is cheating out of control?
Are we too dependent on computers?
Should animals be used for research?
Should cigarette smoking be banned?
Are cell phones dangerous?
Are law enforcement cameras an invasion of privacy?
Do we have a throwaway society ?
Is child behavior better or worse than it was years ago?
Should companies market to children?
Should the government have a say in our diets?
Does access to condoms prevent teen pregnancy?
Should members of Congress have term limits?
Are actors and professional athletes paid too much?
Are CEOs paid too much?
Should athletes be held to high moral standards?
Do violent video games cause behavior problems?
Should creationism be taught in public schools?
Are beauty pageants exploitative ?
Should English be the official language of the United States?
Should the racing industry be forced to use biofuels?
Should the alcohol-drinking age be increased or decreased?
Should everyone be required to recycle?
Is it okay for prisoners to vote (as they are in some states)?
Should same-sex marriage be legalized in more countries?
Are there benefits to attending a single-sex school ?
Does boredom lead to trouble?
Should schools be in session year-round ?
Does religion cause war?
Should the government provide health care?
Should abortion be illegal?
Should more companies expand their reproductive health benefits for employees?
Is homework harmful or helpful?
Is the cost of college too high?
Is college admission too competitive?
Should euthanasia be illegal?
Should the federal government legalize marijuana use nationally ?
Should rich people be required to pay more taxes?
Should schools require foreign language or physical education?
Is affirmative action fair?
Is public prayer okay in schools?
Are schools and teachers responsible for low test scores?
Is greater gun control a good idea?

How to Craft a Persuasive Argument

After you've decided on your essay topic, gather evidence to make your argument as strong as possible. Your research could even help shape the position your essay ultimately takes. As you craft your essay, remember to utilize persuasive writing techniques , such as invoking emotional language or citing facts from authoritative figures.

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50 Argumentative Essay Topics for Students

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11th June 2022

The goal of an argumentative essay is to persuade the reader to understand and support your position on an issue by presenting your reasoning along with supporting evidence. It’s important to find the right balance between giving your opinions and presenting established research.

These essays discuss issues around a range of topics, including science, technology, politics, and healthcare. Whether you’re a teacher looking for essay topics for your students or a student tasked with developing an idea of your own, we’ve compiled a list of 50 argumentative essay topics to help you get started!

● Does texting hinder interpersonal communication skills?

● Should there be laws against using devices while driving?

● Do violent video games teach or encourage people to behave violently?

● Should social media sites be allowed to collect users’ data?

● Should parents limit how long their children spend in front of screens?

● Is AI helping or hurting society?

● Should cyber-bullying carry legal consequences?

● Should Supreme Court justices be elected?

● Is war always a political decision?

● Should people join a political party?

● Is capitalism ethical?

● Is the electoral college an effective system?

● Should prisoners be allowed to vote?

● Should the death penalty be legal?

● Are governments around the world doing enough to combat global warming?

● Is healthcare a fundamental human right?

● Should vaccinations be mandated for children?

● Are there any circumstances under which physician-assisted suicides should be legal?

● Should parents be able to choose specific genetic modifications of their future children?

● Should abortion be legal?

● Is it ethical to perform medical experiments on animals?

● Should patients who lead unhealthy lifestyles be denied organ transplants?

● Should doctors be able to provide medical care to children against their parents’ wishes?

Mental Healthcare

● What causes the stigma around mental health?

● Discuss the link between insufficient access to mental health services and the high suicide rates among veterans.

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● Should cannabis be used as a treatment for patients with mental disorders?

● Is there a link between social media use and mental disorders?

● Discuss the effect of physical activity on mental health.

● Should sports be segregated by gender?

● Should male and female athletes be given the same pay and opportunities?

● Are professional athletes overpaid?

● Should college athletes be paid?

● Should sports betting be legal?

● Should online access to art such as music be free?

● Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?

● Are there any circumstances under which books should be banned?

● Should schools be required to offer art courses?

● Is art necessary to society?

● Should schools require uniforms?

● Should reciting the Pledge of Allegiance be required in schools?

● Do standardized tests effectively measure intelligence?

● Should high school students take a gap year before pursuing higher education?

● Should higher education be free?

● Is there too much pressure on high school students to attend college?

● Are children better off in two-parent households?

● Should LGBTQ+ partners be allowed to adopt?

● Should single people be able to adopt children as easily as couples?

● Is it okay for parents to physically discipline their children?

● Does helicopter parenting help or hurt children?

● Should parents monitor their children’s Internet use?

Proofreading & Editing

An argument could also be made for the importance of proofreading your essay ! The reader can focus more on your message when your writing is clear, concise, and error-free, and they won’t question whether you’re knowledgeable on the issues you’re presenting. Once you have a draft ready, you can submit a free trial document to start working with our expert editors!

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52 Argumentative Essay Ideas that are Actually Interesting

What’s covered:, how to pick a good argumentative essay topic, elements of a strong argumentative essay, argumentative essay idea example topics.

Are you having writer’s block? Coming up with an essay topic can be the hardest part of the process. You have very likely encountered argumentative essay writing in high school and have been asked to write your own. If you’re having trouble finding a topic, we’ve created a list of 52 essay ideas to help jumpstart your brainstorming process! In addition, this post will cover strategies for picking a topic and how to make your argument a strong one. Ultimately, the goal is to convince your reader.

An argumentative essay tasks the writer with presenting an assertion and bolstering that assertion with proper research. You’ll present the claim’s authenticity. This means that whatever argument you’re making must be empirically true! Writing an argumentative essay without any evidence will leave you stranded without any facts to back up your claim. When choosing your essay topic, begin by thinking about themes that have been researched before. Readers will be more engaged with an argument that is supported by data.

This isn’t to say that your argumentative essay topic has to be as well-known, like “Gravity: Does it Exist?” but it shouldn’t be so obscure that there isn’t ample evidence. Finding a topic with multiple sources confirming its validity will help you support your thesis throughout your essay. If upon review of these articles you begin to doubt their worth due to small sample sizes, biased funding sources, or scientific disintegrity, don’t be afraid to move on to a different topic. Your ultimate goal should be proving to your audience that your argument is true because the data supports it.

The hardest essays to write are the ones that you don’t care about. If you don’t care about your topic, why should someone else? Topics that are more personal to the reader are immediately more thoughtful and meaningful because the author’s passion shines through. If you are free to choose an argumentative essay topic, find a topic where the papers you read and cite are fun to read. It’s much easier to write when the passion is already inside of you!

However, you won’t always have the choice to pick your topic. You may receive an assignment to write an argumentative essay that you feel is boring. There is still value in writing an argumentative essay on a topic that may not be of interest to you. It will push you to study a new topic, and broaden your ability to write on a variety of topics. Getting good at proving a point thoroughly and effectively will help you to both understand different fields more completely and increase your comfort with scientific writing.

Convincing Thesis Statement

It’s important to remember the general essay structure: an introduction paragraph with a thesis statement, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. A strong thesis statement will set your essay up for success. What is it? A succinct, concise, and pithy sentence found in your first paragraph that summarizes your main point. Pour over this statement to ensure that you can set up your reader to understand your essay. You should also restate your thesis throughout your essay to keep your reader focused on your point.

Ample Research

A typical argumentative essay prompt may look like this: “What has been the most important invention of the 21st century? Support your claim with evidence.” This question is open-ended and gives you flexibility. But that also means it requires research to prove your point convincingly. The strongest essays weave scientific quotes and results into your writing. You can use recent articles, primary sources, or news sources. Maybe you even cite your own research. Remember, this process takes time, so be sure you set aside enough time to dive deep into your topic.

Clear Structure

If the reader can’t follow your argument, all your research could be for nothing! Structure is key to persuading your audience. Below are two common argumentative essay structures that you can use to organize your essays.

The Toulmin argument and the Rogerian argument each contain the four sections mentioned above but executes them in different ways. Be sure to familiarize yourself with both essay structures so that your essay is the most effective it can be.

The Toulmin argument has a straightforward presentation. You begin with your assertion, your thesis statement. You then list the evidence that supports your point and why these are valid sources. The bulk of your essay should be explaining how your sources support your claim. You then end your essay by acknowledging and discussing the problems or flaws that readers may find in your presentation. Then, you should list the solutions to these and alternative perspectives and prove your argument is stronger.

The Rogerian argument has a more complex structure. You begin with a discussion of what opposing sides do right and the validity of their arguments. This is effective because it allows you to piece apart your opponent’s argument. The next section contains your position on the questions. In this section, it is important to list problems with your opponent’s argument that your argument fixes. This way, your position feels much stronger. Your essay ends with suggesting a possible compromise between the two sides. A combination of the two sides could be the most effective solution.

Is the death penalty effective?
Is our election process fair?
Is the electoral college outdated?
Should we have lower taxes?
How many Supreme Court Justices should there be?
Should there be different term limits for elected officials?
Should the drinking age be lowered?
Does religion cause war?
Should the country legalize marijuana?
Should the country have tighter gun control laws?
Should men get paternity leave?
Should maternity leave be longer?
Should smoking be banned?
Should the government have a say in our diet?
Should birth control be free?
Should we increase access to condoms for teens?
Should abortion be legal?
Do school uniforms help educational attainment?
Are kids better or worse students than they were ten years ago?
Should students be allowed to cheat?
Is school too long?
Does school start too early?
Are there benefits to attending a single-sex school?
Is summer break still relevant?
Is college too expensive?

Art / Culture

How can you reform copyright law?
What was the best decade for music?
Do video games cause students to be more violent?
Should content online be more harshly regulated?
Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?
Should schools ban books?
How important is art education?
Should music be taught in school?
Are music-sharing services helpful to artists?
What is the best way to teach science in a religious school?
Should fracking be legal?
Should parents be allowed to modify their unborn children?
Should vaccinations be required for attending school?
Are GMOs helpful or harmful?
Are we too dependent on our phones?
Should everyone have internet access?
Should internet access be free?
Should the police force be required to wear body cams?
Should social media companies be allowed to collect data from their users?
How has the internet impacted human society?
Should self-driving cars be allowed on the streets?
Should athletes be held to high moral standards?
Are professional athletes paid too much?
Should the U.S. have more professional sports teams?
Should sports be separated by gender?
Should college athletes be paid?
What are the best ways to increase safety in sports?

Where to Get More Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

If you need more help brainstorming topics, especially those that are personalized to your interests, you can use CollegeVine’s free AI tutor, Ivy . Ivy can help you come up with original argumentative essay ideas, and she can also help with the rest of your homework, from math to languages.

Definition Essay Topics: How to Choose the Best?

What Is a Definition Essay? ‍ Definition Essay Structure

How to choose a topic?

Topics by Category

MoreTopic Ideas

Final Words

Writing a definition essay can seem pretty simple. All you need to do is to pick a word and explain what it means. After all, what can be so hard about it? But wait, it only seems that simple until you start writing. Compared to all other essay types, definition papers can get rather tricky, if not challenging.Writing a definition essay can seem pretty simple at first sight. All you need to do is to pick a term and explain what it means in your own words. After all, what can be so hard about it? But wait, it only seems that simple until you start writing. Unlike all other essay types, definition papers can get tricky, if not challenging.

A student must look deep into the problem to create an A-worthy definition paper. It is not enough to simply rephrase the standard definition. Instead, it is necessary to approach the chosen word from different perspectives, look at it from different angles, consider its origin, and keep an eye for detail. That’s the key to success.

Is that all? Unfortunately, writing itself is not the only problem. A lot depends on whether you can choose an effective topic for a definition essay. If you handle this task, you can ensure the success of your essay. But if you fail, no matter how high-quality your essay's content is, you will most likely not get a high grade. Thus, it is vital to make the right choice.

Sounds too confusing and complicated? We get you. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! This article will tell you everything you need to know to choose brilliant topics. Also, here, we will share a list of good definition essay topics to help you find inspiration and get on the right track!

What Is a Definition Essay?

A definition paper is one of the most common essay types, often assigned in schools and colleges. This type of paper has a similar structure to a regular essay. However, it has a different purpose. Our paper writing service will tell you in detail what it definition essay and how to work with it correctly.

In a nutshell, the core goal of definition essays is to explain a chosen word, phrase, or complex to the reader. Therefore, students must carefully study and analyze the desired concept to achieve this goal.

Some of the key things to include in your essay are:

A common dictionary definition (in your own words)
Origin of the term
The modern meaning, as well as other old or less known definitions
History of the word
Your personal opinion

How long should an essay be? This type of paper is rather short. Typically, it has to be around 500 words. Your goal is to explain the chosen concept to the fullest without exceeding the word limit or making your essay too short.

Since the main focus of this type of essay is a single word or concept, the choice of topic is the most important step. Definition essay topics can be very different. They can be more abstract, like morality or justice, and more specific, like computers or music. In many cases, abstract topics are better as they allow more creativity and give you plenty of scope for research.

In this article, we will tell you how to pick a perfect topic for your definition essay and share some great topic ideas that you can choose right now.

Definition Essay Structure

In the process of composing any essay type, writing skills define success. Hence, useful tips are what you need at all stages, including writing an outline. Usually, students write definition essays by the general essay rules. So, by common sense, your work should look like this:

Introduction and thesis statement
Several body paragraphs

Essay writing guides recommend performing good research before writing a plan. Start with an interesting sentence to draw your reader’s attention. Then, for the main body, look up all the explanations of the particular word. How do people understand its literal meaning? How does society use it in everyday life? Maybe, you have a personal experience connected to this term, so write about it! Finally, as an illustration, pick an abstract word like self-esteem or peer pressure.

Eventually, add some closing remarks where you rephrase the main idea of the work. Now you have your perfect essay without hiring writers, thanks to professional writing advice!

How to Make the Right Choice of a Definition Essay Topic

As you probably already know, a good topic is a key to success in writing any academic paper. A definition paper is not an exception. To create a high-scoring paper, you must know how to choose the right topics for a definition essay. After all, how can you possibly create an A-level essay if your subject does not engage the readers?

Okay, that’s clear, but how can you define a good topic for a definition essay and what isn’t? Choosing the essay topic can be troublesome, no matter how easy it may seem. It shouldn’t be boring. At the same time, it has to give you enough scope for research and be clear.

Finding the right combination can be hard. But, we, the professional writing service, are here to lend you a helping hand! We gathered some of the handiest dos and don’ts that will help you find good definition essay topics at ease.

Start in advance to have enough time to choose a perfect topic and conduct thorough research.
Read a few samples of an essay to get a clear idea of what topics other students choose and understand what teachers expect of you.
Make a list of options you can choose.
Opt for topics that are clear and familiar to you.
Conduct primary research to collect facts and details about your options.
Analyze the available facts to choose the right topic.
Don’t choose a topic that is too boring.
Don’t opt for too generic words that are clear to everyone.
Don’t choose words that don’t have any hidden meaning.
Don’t use topics that are too controversial and create debates since your goal is to define the term but not to argue about something.

These basic tips will help you identify the right topic for essay writing. But, let us give you one more piece of advice. To ensure that your theme is truly engaging, you should pay close attention to details. Namely, here are the main things you have to learn about the chosen word or term:

Background - Before writing, you should have a clear idea of the origin of the chosen word. Find out where it came from, who used it first, etc.
Meaning - meanings of words tend to transform throughout the years. Thus, it is important to find out if your word had a different meaning initially that changed over time. Conduct research and collect facts from good sources.
Antecedent versions - just like the word's meaning can change over time, the form itself can also change. So be sure to check if there were any early versions of the same word.
Application - how was this word used in the past? And how is it used today? Discover different applications of the same word to find controversies in usage.

Just don't feel like it? Let us handle your task and go on with your life!

Maybe you need to write an expository essay but don't know how to do it, we recommend that you read our guide.

7 Most Common Types of Definition Essay Topics Lists

All definition essay topics can fall into several categories based on the purpose and nature of the essay you want to write. To use our service, you must choose the right topic category that aligns with the purpose of your academic writing, making it easier for our experts to help me write my paper effectively.

In this section of our article, we are going to take a closer look at the seven most common definition essay topics and provide high-quality definition essay topics examples for each:

Extended Definition Essay Topics

In a nutshell, this type of work is pretty much the same standard definition paper. The core goal stays the same - your task is to explain particular words, phrases, or abstract terms. The only key difference is that it requires you to make an even deeper analysis. Also, this type of work allows you to showcase your personal opinion.

A perfect topic for this type of work has to be complex enough to let you analyze it deeply. Therefore, you should pick terms that have a broad meaning.

Now that you know about the key features of this type of paper, here are a few good extended definition essay topics for you to try:

What does it mean to be brave, and how is it different from having courage?
What is faith?
What is the true meaning of love?
How to define beauty?
What does trust mean to you, and what role does it play in our lives?
What is honesty?
How is wisdom different from knowledge?
What does it mean to be generous?
What is respect, and how is it manifested?
Why is hatred the most destructive feeling of all?

Definition Argument Essay Topics

A definition argument essay not only explains a concept but also strives to persuade the reader of something. It requires you to find the argument for definition essay topics that focus on an ill-defined or controversial concept. Then, you need to define your stance on a particular matter and convince readers of your perspective.

Here are some good definition argument essay topics to consider:

Mobile devices should be allowed in the classroom.
Racial segregation in the US.
What are the worst crimes of all?
Is the death penalty an arrogance or justice?
Sports is the best hobby for youth.
What is patriotism, and why is it vital in the modern world?
Global warming: What is it, and what are the main causes?
Why is corporate social responsibility inherent in the corporate world?
Should uniforms be obligatory in every school?
Should schools stop assigning homework?

Definition Essay Topics for College

College definition papers have the same purpose and requirements as standard definition essays. The main difference is that they must be deeper and clearly understand the defined concept.

To help you get on the right track, we have prepared ten great definition essay topics for college:

Who can be called a best friend?
What does it mean to have good mental health?
Define male chauvinism.
What is the true nature of hatred?
What is brand loyalty, and why does it matter?
Define cyberbullying.
The phenomenon of antisemitism.
What is success?
Define maturity.
What does self-determination mean?

Funny Definition Essay Topics

While there is no place for humor in most essay types, a definition paper allows you to showcase your sense of humor by choosing a funny concept to define or offering readers an amusing viewpoint on something.

Here is a funny definition essay topics list to help you find inspiration:

Why are funny cats videos the best thing in the world?
The most awkward date.
What is sarcasm, and why don't people get it?
Why should [a celebrity of your choice] go for the next US president?
Why do people love advertisements?
Why are dogs people’s best friends?
High-school stereotypes and why they can be good for you?
Why should animals have more rights than people?
How to become the most annoying you can be?
How to waste your time properly and always get away with it?

Controversial Definition Essay Topics

Definition essay topics that are controversial may be hard to disclose in a paper, but they are fun to discuss. Here are a few controversial themes to consider:

Is happiness that important?
Are vaccines good or bad for us?
Playing video games is good for you.
What is nationalism, and why is it bad?
Is e-learning more or less effective?
Artificial Intelligence: A new stage of evolution or a global hazard?
The pros and cons of spam.
What measures of punishment are unacceptable in a healthy family?
Is romance dead these days?
What are the positive aspects of war?
How does a healthy weight connect with body aesthetics?
Is honesty an unattainable trait of a good person?

Abstract Definition Essay Topics

While more specific words and terms are easier to define, more abstract topics can give you more space for creativity. In addition, abstract topics with multiple meanings allow you to interpret a chosen word or concept in your way.

Here is a list of some good abstract topics to choose from:

What is freedom?
Compassion: How to define it and why is it important?
What does being lonely mean to you?
What is boredom?
Laughter is the best medicine
What is grief?
Why do friendships mean so much in our lives?
Explain the concept of adolescence.
Define charisma.
What is civility?
What does the term freedom mean today?

Easy Definition Essay Topics

It is great if you are willing to explore a complex concept in your essay. But, remember that it is also okay to look more into easy topics. Easy definition essay topics are only different because you can explain them using a dictionary.

Typically, words, phrases, and concepts that are easy to define are pretty specific and narrowed. Here are a few ideas:

What does family mean to you?
Explain democracy.
Define the term equal rights.
What is poverty?
What can make a certain house your home?
What does it mean to be kind?
Explain terrorism.
What does marriage mean to you?
What is e-commerce?
Define colonization.

Topics for Definition Essay about Poetry, Love, and Music

What does platonic love mean?
Define poetry.
Why is poetry one of the most admired forms of art?
How is love expressed in different cultures?
Why do we love music?
Music is an alternative form of communication.
Define the connection between music and emotions.

Definition Essay Topics about Food, Health, and Sport

What is health and why is it important?
Explain mental health.
Why is doing sports good for you?
What is the difference between mental and physical health?
What is healthy eating?
Explain the impact of the food we eat on our health.

Definition Essay Topics about Environment and Nature

What is nature?
Define what an environment is.
The origin of the word “environment.”
Provide different definitions of nature.
What is deforestation?
Define the term “endangered species.”

Definition Essay Topics About Politics, History, and Governance

The origin of the word “politics.”
What is politics?
What is history?
The evolution of the term “history.”
Define the term governance.
What are the different forms of governance?

Definition Essay Topics About IT, Business, Commerce, and Economics

What does it mean to be a businessperson?
Explain economic freedom.
The origin of the term “IT”
What does business ethics mean?

The Bottom Line

To wrap up everything we’ve discussed in this article, let’s take a look at the key rules of choosing a good definition essay topic once more:

The word or concept you are going to define should have multiple meanings.
It should be more specific than broad.
You should choose a topic that interests you.
It should be something you know.
It is vital to analyze the chosen concept well, identifying its origins, common meanings, etc.
It can be helpful to figure out the history of the word or term and its previous versions.

On top of that, you can think of society definition essay topics or sports definition essay topics. Ensure that you provide the different explanations in your research paper!

Choosing a topic for a definition essay is hard. But writing the paper itself is even harder. It takes solid skills, an in-depth understanding of the subject matter, and a lot of time to create an A-worthy essay. Luckily, there are endless interesting definition essay topics for college students.

However, don’t get stressed if you are feeling stuck! If you lack time for writing a definition paper or have no idea how to do it, ask the team of PaperWriter and buy an essay , we are always here to help you! Trust real pros in academic writing and get an A+ with ease!

Read also our synthesis essay example . This guide will definitely be useful for you.

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130 New Prompts for Argumentative Writing

Questions on everything from mental health and sports to video games and dating. Which ones inspire you to take a stand?

By The Learning Network

Note: We have an updated version of this list, with 300 new argumentative writing prompts .

What issues do you care most about? What topics do you find yourself discussing passionately, whether online, at the dinner table, in the classroom or with your friends?

In Unit 5 of our free yearlong writing curriculum and related Student Editorial Contest , we invite students to research and write about the issues that matter to them, whether that’s Shakespeare , health care , standardized testing or being messy .

But with so many possibilities, where does one even begin? Try our student writing prompts.

In 2017, we compiled a list of 401 argumentative writing prompts , all drawn from our daily Student Opinion column . Now, we’re rounding up 130 more we’ve published since then ( available here as a PDF ). Each prompt links to a free Times article as well as additional subquestions that can help you think more deeply about it.

You might use this list to inspire your own writing and to find links to reliable resources about the issues that intrigue you. But even if you’re not participating in our contest, you can use these prompts to practice the kind of low-stakes writing that can help you hone your argumentation skills.

So scroll through the list below with questions on everything from sports and mental health to dating and video games and see which ones inspire you to take a stand.

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Argumentative Essay Topics and Ideas

Did you know that according to our argumentative essay writing service , the average person makes about 35,000 decisions every day? With so many fascinating topics out there – from politics to technology – the right one can be a real adventure.

In this article, we'll explore how to pick argumentative essay topics that get people talking and make your paper stand out.

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Examples of Argumentative Essay Topics

It's crucial to ensure that you choose unique argumentative essay topics. While your school may occasionally offer a selection of subjects, there may be times when you find it difficult to settle on one. You can also try a persuasive essay writing service if your workload is too heavy on all fronts.

Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle Schoolers

Recycling in communities.
Outdoor activities for kids.
Student involvement in policies.
Year-round schooling.
Social media and teen mental health.
Zoos: Entertainment vs. welfare.
Peer tutoring's academic impact.
Sports in education.
School vouchers.
Technology in classrooms.
Student choice in classes.
Financial literacy for kids.
Homeschooling pros and cons.
Standardized testing debate.
Music education's impact.

Argumentative Essay Topics for High School Students

Social media's impact on relationships.
Lowering the voting age.
Legalizing marijuana: Pros and cons.
Effectiveness of standardized testing.
Cyberbullying: Causes and effects.
Free college education debate.
Importance of financial literacy.
Technology in education.
School dress codes: Yes or no?
Gun control laws debate.
Drinking age: Lower or raise?
Climate change awareness.
Banning animal testing for cosmetics.
Online learning.
Ethics of genetic engineering.

Argumentative Essay Topics for College Students

Social media's impact on college students' mental health.
Paying college athletes.
Pros and cons of online learning
College education: Worth the cost?
Affirmative action in college admissions.
Free college tuition: Should it be universal?
Effects of climate change policies.
Technology's role in higher education.
Hate speech and the First Amendment.
Ethics of genetic engineering and cloning.
Diversity in the college curriculum.
Pass/fail grading: Should it be an option?
Student loan debt's impact on mental health and careers.
Trigger warnings in college.
Legalizing recreational substances: For or against?

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

Should euthanasia be legalized?
The pros and cons of capital punishment.
Is gun control necessary in modern society?
Should abortion be legal or illegal?
The debate over same-sex marriage.
Are affirmative action policies fair or unfair?
The ethics of animal testing in scientific research.
Should prostitution be legalized?
Is climate change a hoax or a real threat?
The impact of immigration on society.
Should the death penalty be abolished?
The role of religion in government and politics.
Is genetic engineering ethical?
The ethics of cloning humans.
The morality of military intervention in foreign countries.

Funny Argumentative Essay Topics

Cats vs. dogs: The ultimate debate.
Flat Earth theory: Myth or reality?
Pajamas: Fashion statement or fashion faux pas?
Pineapple pizza: Love it or hate it?
Procrastination: The art of delay.
Emojis: The new language.
Socks: More than just footwear.
The five-second rule.
Surviving boring meetings.
DIY zombie apocalypse survival.
Alien encounters: Fact or fiction?
Air guitar: Serious sport or silly hobby?
Deciphering cat communication.
The thrill of watching paint dry.
Laughing at your boss's jokes: A skill or survival tactic?

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Topics for Argumentative Speech

Importance of voting in a democracy.
Should college education be free for all?
Impact of social media on mental health.
Is climate change a real threat?
Ethics of animal testing in scientific research.
Should the legal drinking age be lowered?
Pros and cons of legalizing marijuana.
Should school uniforms be mandatory?
Role of technology in shaping society.
Need for stricter gun control laws.
Benefits of renewable energy sources.
Is online learning as effective as traditional education?
Effects of fast food on public health.
Should genetic engineering of humans be allowed?

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Argument Topics on Social Media

Should social media regulate hate speech?
Role of social media in spreading misinformation.
Is social media addiction real?
Should employers use social media for hiring?
Influence of social media on political views.
Should parents monitor children's social media?
Ethical implications of influencer marketing.
Effects of social media on relationships.
Should social media ban political ads?
Responsibility of social media companies against cyberbullying.
Impact of social media on self-esteem.
Should social media have age restrictions?
Privacy concerns with social media.
Role of social media in activism.

Argument Topics on Music

Impact of music education on academics.
Should explicit music lyrics be censored?
Influence of music on emotions.
Streaming music: Did it help musicians?
Is music piracy a crime?
Music's role in cultural identity.
Should music therapy be mainstream?
Effects of music on child development.
Autotune: Boon or bane for music?
Prioritizing funding for school music programs.
Ethics of sampling in music.
Relevance of classical music today.
Music's role in social movements.
Age restrictions at music venues.
Live music vs. recorded experiences: Which is better?

Health Argumentative Essay Topics

Fast food's impact on health.
Junk food ban in schools?
Legalizing marijuana for medicine.
Universal healthcare: A right?
Vaccination: preventing diseases.
Smoking in public: should it be banned?
Genetics: Testing and editing ethics.
Mental health vs. physical health?
Exercise: Vital for health?
Taxing sugary drinks: Good idea?
Alternative medicine: Pros and cons.
Mandatory flu shots for healthcare?
Technology's mental health impact.
Organic food: Worth the cost?
GMOs: Safe for consumption?

Argument Topics on Science and Technology

Ethics of artificial intelligence.
Pros and cons of genetic engineering in humans.
Renewable energy: Benefits and drawbacks.
Nuclear energy: Sustainable solution?
Technology's impact on privacy.
Regulating facial recognition technology.
Manned missions vs. robotics in space exploration.
Ethics of CRISPR gene editing.
Technology and social connection.
Role of technology in climate change.
Autonomous vehicles on public roads: Yes or no?
Social media algorithms and information consumption.
Regulation of artificial intelligence development.
Biometric surveillance: Potential dangers.
Limits on military technology development.

Argument Topics on Sports

Impact of sports on youth development.
Should college athletes be paid?
Technology in sports officiating.
Benefits of competitive sports for children.
Performance-enhancing substances in sports.
Banning violent sports like boxing.
Ethics of gender segregation in sports.
Importance of sportsmanship in competition.
Changing racially insensitive sports team names.
Hosting major sporting events for cities.
Legitimacy of esports as sports.
Sports' impact on mental health.
Athlete protests during events.
Salary caps in professional sports.
Sports' role in promoting social change.

Argument Topics on Government

Government's role in healthcare.
Lowering or raising the voting age.
Is democracy the best system?
Term limits for politicians.
Abolishing the Electoral College.
Influence of lobbying on decisions.
Government's role in regulating the economy.
Stricter regulations on campaign finance.
Universal basic income debate.
Necessity of government surveillance.
Ethics of Government Censorship.
Limits on executive powers.
Government policies and climate change.
Government's role in addressing inequality.

Argument Topics on TV, Movies, Video Games

Impact of violent video games on behavior.
Should violent media be restricted?
Influence of celebrity culture.
Harmfulness of binge-watching.
Portrayal of gender and race in media.
Age restrictions on video game content.
Effects of advertising in children's shows.
Is piracy damaging to the industry?
Role of censorship in protecting audiences.
Regulation of video game loot boxes.
Social media's impact on entertainment.
Need for diversity in Hollywood.
Future of virtual reality in entertainment.
Streaming services vs. traditional TV.
Regulating children's screen time.

How to Choose Argumentative Essay Topics

To come up with engaging and thought-provoking argumentative essay topics for students, it’s crucial to choose a strong topic. Here are seven genuine suggestions to help you through the process:

Explore Your Interests

Brainstorm interesting argumentative essay topics that genuinely interest you. A subject you're passionate about will make the research and writing process more enjoyable and engaging.

Consider Controversy

Look for topics for argumentative essay that spark debate or have multiple perspectives. Controversial issues often make for compelling argumentative essays because they allow you to explore different sides of an issue and present your stance.

Assess Current Relevance

Select unique argumentative essay topics that are relevant to current events or ongoing discussions in society. This ensures your essay resonates with readers and contributes to meaningful dialogue on contemporary issues. Also, we recommend learning more about an argumentative essay structure before working on your first draft.

Narrow Down Broad Topics

Once you've identified a general area of interest, narrow it down to a specific aspect or angle. This will help you focus your research and develop a clear thesis statement for your essay.

Evaluate Feasibility

Consider the availability of credible sources and data for your chosen topic. Ensure that you find enough evidence to support your arguments and counterarguments effectively. Just in case, we have an article with a cause and effect essay structure , so don’t forget to consult it.

Check for Personal Connection

Reflect on your experiences, beliefs, or values that may intersect with potential topics. A topic that is personally significant to you can add depth and authenticity to your arguments.

Seek Feedback

Discuss your topic ideas with peers, instructors, or mentors for their input and perspectives. They can offer valuable insights, suggest alternative angles, or help you refine your topic to make it more persuasive. If you’re in a hurry, you can simply buy argumentative essay and call it a day.

A quality topic should be relevant, timely, and debatable, offering multiple perspectives for examination. Moreover, it should align with the writer's interests and expertise, enabling them to present a well-reasoned and well-supported argument.

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With our writing services , you can rest assured that you will receive a well-written, compelling essay that will impress your professors.

What Is the Five-Paragraph Argumentative Essay?

What are good topics for an argumentative essay, what is an argumentative example.

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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Oliver, E. (2023, May 18). Good Argumentative Essay Topics. Read Relevant. https://readrelevant.com/good-argumentative-essay-topics/
52 Argumentative Essay Ideas that are Actually Interesting. (2021, April 19). CollegeVine Blog. https://blog.collegevine.com/argumentative-essays-ideas

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How to write an argumentative essay | Examples & tips

How to Write an Argumentative Essay | Examples & Tips

Published on July 24, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

An argumentative essay expresses an extended argument for a particular thesis statement . The author takes a clearly defined stance on their subject and builds up an evidence-based case for it.

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When do you write an argumentative essay, approaches to argumentative essays, introducing your argument, the body: developing your argument, concluding your argument, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about argumentative essays.

You might be assigned an argumentative essay as a writing exercise in high school or in a composition class. The prompt will often ask you to argue for one of two positions, and may include terms like “argue” or “argument.” It will frequently take the form of a question.

The prompt may also be more open-ended in terms of the possible arguments you could make.

Argumentative writing at college level

At university, the vast majority of essays or papers you write will involve some form of argumentation. For example, both rhetorical analysis and literary analysis essays involve making arguments about texts.

In this context, you won’t necessarily be told to write an argumentative essay—but making an evidence-based argument is an essential goal of most academic writing, and this should be your default approach unless you’re told otherwise.

Examples of argumentative essay prompts

At a university level, all the prompts below imply an argumentative essay as the appropriate response.

Your research should lead you to develop a specific position on the topic. The essay then argues for that position and aims to convince the reader by presenting your evidence, evaluation and analysis.

Don’t just list all the effects you can think of.
Do develop a focused argument about the overall effect and why it matters, backed up by evidence from sources.
Don’t just provide a selection of data on the measures’ effectiveness.
Do build up your own argument about which kinds of measures have been most or least effective, and why.
Don’t just analyze a random selection of doppelgänger characters.
Do form an argument about specific texts, comparing and contrasting how they express their thematic concerns through doppelgänger characters.

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An argumentative essay should be objective in its approach; your arguments should rely on logic and evidence, not on exaggeration or appeals to emotion.

There are many possible approaches to argumentative essays, but there are two common models that can help you start outlining your arguments: The Toulmin model and the Rogerian model.

Toulmin arguments

The Toulmin model consists of four steps, which may be repeated as many times as necessary for the argument:

Make a claim
Provide the grounds (evidence) for the claim
Explain the warrant (how the grounds support the claim)
Discuss possible rebuttals to the claim, identifying the limits of the argument and showing that you have considered alternative perspectives

The Toulmin model is a common approach in academic essays. You don’t have to use these specific terms (grounds, warrants, rebuttals), but establishing a clear connection between your claims and the evidence supporting them is crucial in an argumentative essay.

Say you’re making an argument about the effectiveness of workplace anti-discrimination measures. You might:

Claim that unconscious bias training does not have the desired results, and resources would be better spent on other approaches
Cite data to support your claim
Explain how the data indicates that the method is ineffective
Anticipate objections to your claim based on other data, indicating whether these objections are valid, and if not, why not.

Rogerian arguments

The Rogerian model also consists of four steps you might repeat throughout your essay:

Discuss what the opposing position gets right and why people might hold this position
Highlight the problems with this position
Present your own position , showing how it addresses these problems
Suggest a possible compromise —what elements of your position would proponents of the opposing position benefit from adopting?

This model builds up a clear picture of both sides of an argument and seeks a compromise. It is particularly useful when people tend to disagree strongly on the issue discussed, allowing you to approach opposing arguments in good faith.

Say you want to argue that the internet has had a positive impact on education. You might:

Acknowledge that students rely too much on websites like Wikipedia
Argue that teachers view Wikipedia as more unreliable than it really is
Suggest that Wikipedia’s system of citations can actually teach students about referencing
Suggest critical engagement with Wikipedia as a possible assignment for teachers who are skeptical of its usefulness.

You don’t necessarily have to pick one of these models—you may even use elements of both in different parts of your essay—but it’s worth considering them if you struggle to structure your arguments.

Regardless of which approach you take, your essay should always be structured using an introduction , a body , and a conclusion .

Like other academic essays, an argumentative essay begins with an introduction . The introduction serves to capture the reader’s interest, provide background information, present your thesis statement , and (in longer essays) to summarize the structure of the body.

Hover over different parts of the example below to see how a typical introduction works.

The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. The use of the internet in academic contexts is on the rise, and its role in learning is hotly debated. For many teachers who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its critical benefits for students and educators—as a uniquely comprehensive and accessible information source; a means of exposure to and engagement with different perspectives; and a highly flexible learning environment.

The body of an argumentative essay is where you develop your arguments in detail. Here you’ll present evidence, analysis, and reasoning to convince the reader that your thesis statement is true.

In the standard five-paragraph format for short essays, the body takes up three of your five paragraphs. In longer essays, it will be more paragraphs, and might be divided into sections with headings.

Each paragraph covers its own topic, introduced with a topic sentence . Each of these topics must contribute to your overall argument; don’t include irrelevant information.

This example paragraph takes a Rogerian approach: It first acknowledges the merits of the opposing position and then highlights problems with that position.

Hover over different parts of the example to see how a body paragraph is constructed.

A common frustration for teachers is students’ use of Wikipedia as a source in their writing. Its prevalence among students is not exaggerated; a survey found that the vast majority of the students surveyed used Wikipedia (Head & Eisenberg, 2010). An article in The Guardian stresses a common objection to its use: “a reliance on Wikipedia can discourage students from engaging with genuine academic writing” (Coomer, 2013). Teachers are clearly not mistaken in viewing Wikipedia usage as ubiquitous among their students; but the claim that it discourages engagement with academic sources requires further investigation. This point is treated as self-evident by many teachers, but Wikipedia itself explicitly encourages students to look into other sources. Its articles often provide references to academic publications and include warning notes where citations are missing; the site’s own guidelines for research make clear that it should be used as a starting point, emphasizing that users should always “read the references and check whether they really do support what the article says” (“Wikipedia:Researching with Wikipedia,” 2020). Indeed, for many students, Wikipedia is their first encounter with the concepts of citation and referencing. The use of Wikipedia therefore has a positive side that merits deeper consideration than it often receives.

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An argumentative essay ends with a conclusion that summarizes and reflects on the arguments made in the body.

No new arguments or evidence appear here, but in longer essays you may discuss the strengths and weaknesses of your argument and suggest topics for future research. In all conclusions, you should stress the relevance and importance of your argument.

Hover over the following example to see the typical elements of a conclusion.

The internet has had a major positive impact on the world of education; occasional pitfalls aside, its value is evident in numerous applications. The future of teaching lies in the possibilities the internet opens up for communication, research, and interactivity. As the popularity of distance learning shows, students value the flexibility and accessibility offered by digital education, and educators should fully embrace these advantages. The internet’s dangers, real and imaginary, have been documented exhaustively by skeptics, but the internet is here to stay; it is time to focus seriously on its potential for good.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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An argumentative essay tends to be a longer essay involving independent research, and aims to make an original argument about a topic. Its thesis statement makes a contentious claim that must be supported in an objective, evidence-based way.

An expository essay also aims to be objective, but it doesn’t have to make an original argument. Rather, it aims to explain something (e.g., a process or idea) in a clear, concise way. Expository essays are often shorter assignments and rely less on research.

At college level, you must properly cite your sources in all essays , research papers , and other academic texts (except exams and in-class exercises).

Add a citation whenever you quote , paraphrase , or summarize information or ideas from a source. You should also give full source details in a bibliography or reference list at the end of your text.

The exact format of your citations depends on which citation style you are instructed to use. The most common styles are APA , MLA , and Chicago .

The majority of the essays written at university are some sort of argumentative essay . Unless otherwise specified, you can assume that the goal of any essay you’re asked to write is argumentative: To convince the reader of your position using evidence and reasoning.

In composition classes you might be given assignments that specifically test your ability to write an argumentative essay. Look out for prompts including instructions like “argue,” “assess,” or “discuss” to see if this is the goal.

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Argumentative Essay Writing

Argumentative Essay Topics

Take Your Pick – 200+ Argumentative Essay Topics

20 min read

Published on: Jul 11, 2020

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

Best Argumentative Essay Topics For Students

When it comes to choosing an argumentative essay topic, itâs important to select one that is interesting and relevant.

While you may think that any topic will do, considering the audience you are writing for can be beneficial.

Think about topics that have a lot of room for debate and analysis. This will ensure that your paper is engaging and well-developed.

Let's dive into our comprehensive list of topics!

Argumentative Essay Topics For Middle School

Should students be required to wear uniforms in school?
Should schools offer fast food options in their cafeteria?
Is homework beneficial or detrimental to student learning?
Are video games a positive or negative influence on kids?
Should competitive sports be mandatory for all students?
Are standardized tests an accurate measure of student success?
Should students be allowed to use cell phones in the classroom?
Is year-round school a better option for students?
Is cheating in school ever justified?
Should high schools offer more career guidance and job placement assistance?

Argumentative Essay Topics For Grade 6

Should students be required to do community service in order to graduate?
Is recess an important part of the school day?
Are zoos necessary for animal conservation?
Are video games or movies more educational for kids?
Is it appropriate for children to watch horror films?
Are video games a good way to keep kids active?
Should students be allowed to have their own social media accounts?
Is it important for children to learn cursive handwriting in school?
Is learning a foreign language at a young age beneficial?
Are competition-based activities good for building teamwork skills?

Argumentative Essay Topics For 7th Graders

Should parents be required to limit their childrenâs screen time?
Do school lunches provide enough nutrition for students?
Is using a computer in the classroom better than using textbooks?
Should physical education classes be mandatory in schools?
Should students be allowed to use their phones during class?
Is cheating ever justified in school assignments?
Are single-sex classrooms better for learning than co-ed ones?
Do children learn best through play or through instruction?
Should schools offer more career guidance and job placement assistance?

Argumentative Essay Topics For Grade 8

Should students be allowed to use cell phones in the classroom?
Should schools offer more vocational courses for students?
Is standardized testing an accurate measure of student success?
Should elementary schools offer more technology classes?
Are year-round schools better for student learning?
Is online learning as effective as traditional methods of teaching?
Should teachers be allowed to assign homework over the weekend?

Argumentative Essay Topics For High School

Should students be able to choose their own courses in high school?
Is the current system of education outdated and in need of reform?
Is cheating ever justified in exams or assignments?
Does standardized testing accurately measure student intelligence?
Is it necessary for high schoolers to learn a foreign language?
Should students be required to participate in physical education classes?
Is there too much emphasis on technology in classrooms today?
Should high schoolers have part-time jobs during their studies?
Is it important for schools to offer more career guidance and job placement assistance? ?
Should students participate in more outdoor games?

Argumentative Essay Topics For O Levels

Should students be allowed to use cell phones in school?
Is standardized testing an effective measure of student success?
How can schools best prepare students for the job market?
Are universities doing enough to prepare students for the future?
Should physical education classes be mandatory in high school?
Should students be able to choose their own classes in college?
Are video games a problem for children these days?
Do video games have a positive or negative influence on kids?
Should online classes be offered as an alternative to traditional schooling? ?

Argumentative Essay Topics For College Students

Are colleges doing enough to prepare students for the job market?
Should college athletes be paid for their performance?
Is standardized testing an accurate measure of student intelligence?
What is the best way to prevent cheating in university exams?
Is a college degree still necessary for success in todayâs job market?
Should universities offer more vocational courses for students?
Are year-round classes beneficial or detrimental to student learning?
How can we best ensure that college graduates have the skills they need for success?
Should college admissions be based on test scores and grades alone? ?

Argumentative Essay Topics For University Students

Is the current system of higher education outdated and in need of reform?
Are online classes as effective as traditional ones for student learning?
Are admissions tests the right test to give admission to a student?
Is it necessary for university students to learn a foreign language?
Should college admissions be based on test scores and grades alone?
How can universities best prepare students for the job market?
Does standardized testing accurately measure student intelligence? ?

Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Teenagers

Should teens be allowed to make their own decisions about their education?
Is it important for teenagers to learn a foreign language?
Does Social Media have a negative impact on teenage mental health?
Are online classes just as effective as traditional ones for student learning?
Is standardized testing an accurate measure of student intelligence?
Are teenagers more attracted to drugs than adults?
Is it beneficial for teenagers to have part-time jobs during their studies?
Should there be stricter laws in place to regulate the use of cell phones by teens?
How can schools best prepare teenagers for the job market?

Easy Argumentative Essay Topics

Should students be allowed to have cell phones in school?
Is homework necessary for students to succeed academically?
Should junk food be banned in schools?
Are video games beneficial or harmful to children?
Should school uniforms be mandatory for all students?
Is it better to read books or use technology for learning?
Should pets be allowed in all public places?
Is it fair for kids to have an equal share of household chores?
Should children be allowed to watch TV or use electronic devices before bedtime?
Is it better to be an only child or have siblings?

Easy Argumentative Essay Topics

Should the minimum wage be increased?
Do plastic bags have a negative environmental impact?
Is violence in video games and films responsible for violent behavior in children?
Is standardized testing an effective measure of student learning?
Should the voting age be lowered?
Should animals be used in scientific research?
Is it necessary to have a college degree in order to be successful in life?
Is social media responsible for a rise in mental health issues among teenagers? ?

Unique Argumentative Essay Topics

Are artificial intelligence and robotics a threat to human employment?
How can governments best address the global refugee crisis?
Should employers be required to provide flexible working hours for parents?
Is the current education system in need of reform to prepare students for the job market?
Should universities be held accountable for the success of their graduates?
How can technology best be utilized to improve the quality of education?
Should college admissions be based on test scores and grades alone?
Is the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports a violation of ethical standards? ?

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

Is it ethical to use animals for scientific research?
Are student-athletes receiving fair compensation for their performance?
Should the death penalty be abolished in all countries?
Is the current immigration system in need of reform?
Do violent video games and films contribute to the rise in crime?
Should same-sex marriage be legalized in all countries?
Should abortion be made illegal in all countries? ?

Interesting Argumentative Essay Topics

Should the legal drinking age be lowered?
What are the benefits and drawbacks of homeschooling?
Does social media have a negative impact on teenage mental health?
Are school uniforms a necessary expense?
Is homeschooling better than a normal school?
What measures should be taken to protect endangered species? ?

Fun Argumentative Essay Topics

Should the âStar Warsâ prequel trilogy be considered canon?
Is it important for teenagers to learn how to play a musical instrument?
What are the beneficial effects of video games on teenage development?
Are there any benefits to watching television shows or movies in 3D?
Are superheroes a necessary element in modern-day films?
Should children be allowed to watch movies rated PG-13 and above?
Is it ethical for companies to produce products with an âend of lifeâ plan built into them?
Can art influence society in a positive way?
Should parents be allowed to choose their childâs gender before birth?
Is the book always better than the movie adaptation? ?

Mental Health Argumentative Essay Topics

What is the link between mental health and physical health?
Is there a stigma attached to mental illness?
How can we better support young people with mental health issues?
Does social media have an impact on our mental well-being?
Should all schools provide access to mental health professionals?
What measures should be taken to reduce the incidence of suicide among teens?
Are there any benefits to taking medication for mental health issues?
Should employers make accommodations for employees with mental illness?
Is it ethical to force someone into treatment for a mental health condition?
Should mental health be considered an important part of healthcare reform?

General Argumentative Essay Topics ?

Should genetically modified crops be widely adopted in agriculture?
Is it ethically justifiable to genetically modify humans for the purpose of treating terminal illnesses?
Should the United States abolish the Electoral College in favor of a popular vote system?
Is there a need for better support systems and reduced stigma around mental health in the workplace?
Is taking a gap year after high school a beneficial choice for personal and academic growth?
Is the death penalty a justifiable form of punishment or an act of barbarism?
What should be the role of the United States in global politics: assertive superpower or impartial mediator?
How do political parties impact and shape the democratic process in the United States?
Should high school students have more opportunities for physical education beyond traditional gym classes?
Is animal testing a necessary evil or an unjustified act of cruelty?

How to Choose a Good Argumentative Essay Topic?

Choosing a good argumentative essay topic can be challenging. Itâs important to pick a topic that is both interesting and has two sides that can be argued on.

Here are some tips to help you choose the best argumentative essay topic:

1. Choose a topic that interests you

This is the most important factor when selecting an argumentative essay topic. Pick a subject that is interesting to you and allows for debate or discussion.

2. Consider both sides of the argument

There must be two opposing positions in any good argument. Make sure your topic allows for both sides to have a valid argument .

3. Research the topic thoroughly

Take the time to research and understand both sides of the issue before you begin writing your essay. This will help ensure that you are able to make an informed argument in your paper.

4. Consider current events

Argumentative essays can be based on any current issue or event, which makes them great topics for discussion. Select a topic that is currently relevant and will engage readers.

5. Think critically

Finally, make sure to approach the essay with an open mind. Consider both sides of the argument before making your own conclusion. This will help ensure that your argument is sound and well-supported. Check out this video to learn more!

Follow these tips and you will be able to choose a good topic for your argumentative essay!

Tips for Writing a Compelling Argumentative Essay

Once youâve selected a great argumentative essay topic, itâs time to start writing! Here are some tips for crafting a compelling argumentative essay:

Structure your paper properly

Make sure that your paper follows the standard structure of an essay and includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Check out the comprehensive blog on how to create a perfect persuasive essay outline !

Use evidence and examples to support your argument

To make your essay more persuasive, be sure to provide facts, statistics, and research-based evidence that supports your opinion.

Be aware of counterarguments

Anticipate the opposing viewpoints on your topic and develop a rebuttal for each one in advance. This will make your essay more convincing and will help you refute any counterarguments.

Use a clear writing style

Your argumentative essay should be written in a formal yet engaging style. Avoid biased language and personal attacks, and focus on presenting the facts objectively.

Take a stance

Choose one side of the argument and make sure your essay expresses your opinion clearly. This will help ensure that you present a convincing argument in your paper.

By following these tips, you can create an effective and compelling argumentative essay!

You now know how to write an argumentative essay, and there are plenty of topics to choose from.

With over 200 examples of argumentative essay topics at your disposal, weâre sure youâll find something that interests you.

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Specializing in crafting high-quality argumentative essay writing , our team of expert writers is dedicated to delivering content that not only meets but exceeds your expectations. Whether it's a complex topic or a tight deadline, we've got you covered.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do i choose an argumentative essay topic.

When choosing an argumentative essay topic, it is important to select one that you are both knowledgeable and passionate about. Consider topics that you have studied in depth or can research easily.

How should I structure my argumentative essay?

An argumentative essay typically follows the classic five-paragraph structure.

It includes an introduction that introduces your topic and states your claim. Three body paragraphs that provide evidence and analysis to support your claim. Finally, a conclusion that summarizes your argument and emphasizes the importance of your evidence.

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Good Argumentative Essay Topics

Having meaningful conversations and debates is important. Argumentative essays give us a way to do that. But figuring out what to argue about can be tricky. There are so many subjects out there, from big social issues to tricky ethical questions.

In this article, we will help you pick perfect argumentative essay topics that get people talking and make you think. So, let's dive in and find something worth debating!

By the way, if you’re pressed for time, hire an argumentative essay writer right now.

Characteristics of a Good Argumentative Essay Topic

A compelling argumentative essay topic possesses several key characteristics to engage readers and stimulate critical thinking. Here are some qualities to consider:

Characteristics	Description
Relevance
Controversy
Complexity
Evidence
Feasibility
Audience Appeal
Ethical Considerations
Personal Interest
Originality
Scope for Argumentation

If you’d like to know more about how to write an argumentative essay , please review this guide.

How to Choose a Good Argumentative Essay Topic?

Choosing argumentative essay topics is a pivotal step in the writing process. Here's a structured approach in seven steps to help you select the right topic:

Identify Your Interests

Start by brainstorming points that genuinely interest you. Consider issues, controversies, or debates you're passionate about or curious to explore further. Your enthusiasm for the central idea will enhance your motivation and engagement throughout the writing process.

Research Current Events and Trends

Stay updated on current events, trends, societal issues, politics, technology, culture, and other relevant areas. Browse reputable news sources, journals, and online platforms to identify timely, relevant, and potentially controversial subjects.

where to find good argumentative essay topics

Consider Multiple Perspectives

Reflect on different viewpoints surrounding potential subjects. A good argumentative essay often involves exploring opposing arguments and presenting a balanced view. Choose a matter that allows for diverse opinions and encourages critical analysis.

Evaluate Feasibility and Scope

Assess the feasibility of researching and arguing your chosen topical matter within the scope of your essay assignment or word limit. Avoid overly broad themes that are difficult to cover comprehensively and overly narrow subjects that may lack depth or significance.

Check for Credible Sources and Evidence

Ensure that your chosen point is supported by credible evidence, data, research studies, or expert opinions. Conduct preliminary research to determine the availability of reliable sources and evidence to substantiate your arguments. A subject with ample supporting material will strengthen the persuasiveness of your essay.

Consider Audience Interest and Relevance

Analyze your target audience's interests, knowledge level, and values. Choose a point that is likely to resonate with your readers and provoke their interest or thought. Consider the idea's broader societal relevance and potential impact on your audience.

Refine and Narrow Down Your Topic

Once you've generated a list of potential themes, refine and narrow down your choices based on the above criteria. Consider each subject's uniqueness, complexity, controversy, and ethical considerations. Choose the one that best aligns with your interests, research capabilities, and essay assignment requirements.

150 Argumentative Essay Topics

After checking out this collection of topics for an argumentative essay gathered by our essay writers , your creative juices will flow abundantly!

Science Argumentative Essay Topics

Genetic engineering ethics.
Vaccination effectiveness.
Climate change biodiversity.
GMO safety.
Nuclear energy debate.
Space exploration importance.
Tech and climate.
Stem cells in medicine.
Alternative medicine efficacy.
Animal testing ethics.
Plastic pollution impact.
Fracking controversy.
Renewable energy.
Biodiversity conservation.

Technology Argumentative Essay Topics

Social media's impact on relationships.
Cell phone use in schools.
Ethics of digital surveillance.
AI's threat to employment.
Tech's role in fighting climate change.
Video games' mental health effects.
Internet access as a human right.
Tech's influence on education.
Online vs. traditional learning effectiveness.
Regulating algorithms' societal impact.
Remote work pros and cons.
Government regulation of facial recognition.
Tech addiction's mental health impact.
Necessity of online censorship.
Tech's role in democracy.

Health Argumentative Essay Topics

Universal healthcare pros/cons.
Mandatory child vaccination.
Fast food's health impact.
GMO safety in food.
Organ transplantation ethics.
Gov't junk food regulation.
Medical marijuana legalization.
Traditional vs. modern medicine.
Mental health in schools.
Healthcare as a human right.
Antibiotic resistance.
Social media and mental health.
Mental illness stigma.
Healthcare: Privilege or right?
Pharma and public health.

Government Argumentative Essay Topics

Democracy's effectiveness.
Electoral college vs. popular vote.
Government's role in inequality.
Term limits for officials.
Campaign finance reform.
Political polarization.
Government surveillance.
Mandatory voting.
Stricter weaponry control.
Money in politics.
Freedom of speech.
Regulating social media.
Gov't action on climate change.
Globalization vs. sovereignty.
Voting age.

Education Argumentative Essay Topics

Standardized testing effectiveness.
Free college education.
Technology in education.
School dress codes.
Homeschooling's impact.
Teaching financial literacy.
Online vs. traditional learning.
Mandatory intercourse education.
Importance of arts education.
Teaching critical thinking.
Year-round schooling pros/cons.
Fairness of grading system.
Standardized curriculums' impact.
Free school meals.
Extracurricular importance.

Environmental Argumentative Essay Topics

The urgency of climate action.
Stricter carbon regulations.
Renewable energy's role.
Deforestation impact.
Single-use plastics ban.
Ethics of animal agriculture.
Preserving natural habitats.
Conservation vs. development.
Recycling program effectiveness.
Eco-friendly consumerism.
Urbanization's environmental impact.
Implementing carbon pricing.
Geoengineering ethics.
Corporate environmental responsibility.

Sports Argumentative Essay Topics

Paying college athletes.
Ethics of performance-enhancing substances.
Youth sports' impact on development.
Concussions in sports.
Transgender athletes' participation.
Technology in sports officiating.
Athletes' moral standards.
Sports and gender equality.
Commercialization of sports.
Safety of contact sports.
Racially insensitive team names.
Sports endorsements' influence.
Sports and academic success.
Sports-related gambling.
Legitimacy of esports.

Ethics Argumentative Essay Topics

Capital punishment.
Physician-assisted suicide.
Genetic embryo modification.
Cloning morality.
Abortion debate.
Autonomous vehicles ethics.
Business ethics.
Lying morality.
Animal entertainment.
Firearms control debate.
Charity donation ethics.
Whistleblowing.
Sweatshop labor.
Government morality.

Religion Argumentative Essay Topics

Prayer in public schools.
Ethics of religious conversion.
Religion's impact on society.
Religion and gender equality.
Displaying religious symbols.
Science vs. religion compatibility.
Creationism vs. evolution in schools.
Legitimacy of atheism.
Religion in politics.
Religious extremism ethics.
Taxation of religious institutions.
Religion and LGBTQ+ rights.
Limits on religious freedom.
Existence of a higher power.
Religious teachings in schools.

Social Issues Argumentative Essay Topics

Increasing the minimum wage.
Bias in the criminal justice system.
Affirmative action policies.
Immigration ethics.
Stricter arms control.
Same-gender marriage debate.
Universal healthcare.
Combatting racism.
Free childcare services.
Taxation for income redistribution.
Poverty's impact on education.
Gender pay gap.
Social programs and homelessness.
Freedom of speech vs. hate speech.

Ryan Acton is an essay-writing expert with a Ph.D. in Sociology, specializing in sociological research and historical analysis. By partnering with EssayHub, he provides comprehensive support to students, helping them craft well-informed essays across a variety of topics.

Green, L., Green, L., Green, L., & Green, L. (2024, April 3). 160 Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Students in 2024 . College Transitions - College Admissions Counseling & Consulting. https://www.collegetransitions.com/blog/good-argumentative-essay-topics/
Argumentative Writing Prompts . (n.d.). The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/spotlight/learning-network-argumentative-prompts

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150 Creative Definition Essay Topics For College Students
Unique Definition Essay Topics. The quirkiness of 'fam': exploring unconventional family structures. The essence of 'chill': beyond a relaxing vibe. Defining 'awkward': navigating social discomfort. The true meaning of 'indie': beyond music and film. The 'vibe' culture: capturing the unspoken atmosphere.
250+ Definition Essay Topics Ideas for Students
Each of these outline parts plays an important role in making your definition essay look presentable, easy to read and follow. Completing an outline and good research will help to reach these goals. Read also: 200+ Argumentative Essay Topics Definition Essay Examples Below are two definition essay examples.
200 Interesting Definition Essay Topics & Ideas
A definition essay is a type of essay that seeks to define and explain a concept, term, or idea. The goal of this type of essay is: to explain the meaning of a concept, term, or idea. to examine how a concept, term, or idea is defined by different people and groups. to analyze the implications of a particular definition.
160 Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Students in 2024
How to Write an Effective Argumentative Essay, Step by Step. Choose your topic. Use the list below to help you pick a topic. Ideally, a good argumentative essay topic will be meaningful to you—writing is always stronger when you are interested in the subject matter. In addition, the topic should be complex with plenty of "pro" and "con ...
100+ Amazing Definition Essay Topics for Students
Stop stressing out and have a look at the list given below. We have compiled a list of some amazing definition essay topics for all academic-level students. Universal definition of love. Importance of self-respect. Capitalism vs. communism. Sense of humor.
Uncovering Endless Inspiration for Your Essay
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.
How to Write a Definition Essay [50 Definition Essay Topic Ideas]
A definition essay is a type of writing that explains and explores the meaning of a complex, abstract, or multifaceted term. It involves presenting a detailed and personal understanding of the term, often supported by research and examples. However, a definition essay structure goes beyond the bounds of argumentative or descriptive essays.
200 Definition Essay Topics: Best Ideas & Prompts
A definition essay is a paper that explains the meaning of an idea, word, or term. It can also be described as an intricate dictionary that not only defines a term but also provide in-depth explanation and illustrations. Definition essay topics are the primary subject matters in a definition essay.
150 Definition Essay Topics: Extended, Easy & More
Definition Argument Essay Topics. In a definition argument essay, you're setting out to defend your unique interpretation. By making an argument for definition essay topics, your words will have the power to persuade and influence. ... To sum up what we've covered, here are the main points for choosing a good definition essay topic: The term or ...
100 Definition Essay Topics Ideas & Examples for Students
Extended Definition Essays Ideas. Some definitions could be extended to cover more complex or general ideas. These definition paragraph topics will show you how it could be done. Being Miserable and Committing Crimes: Define Link Between These Concepts. Pick Any Three Related Concepts and Elaborate On Them.
50 Great Argumentative Essay Topics for Any Assignment
A good argumentative essay will be based on established or new research rather than only on your thoughts and feelings. Imagine that you're trying to get your parents to raise your allowance, and you can offer one of two arguments in your favor: You should raise my allowance because I want you to.
50 Compelling Argumentative Essay Topics
50 Argumentative Essay Topics. Illustration by Catherine Song. ThoughtCo. An argumentative essay requires you to decide on a topic and argue for or against it. You'll need to back up your viewpoint with well-researched facts and information as well. One of the hardest parts is deciding which topic to write about, but there are plenty of ideas ...
50 Argumentative Essay Topics for Students
These essays discuss issues around a range of topics, including science, technology, politics, and healthcare. Whether you're a teacher looking for essay topics for your students or a student tasked with developing an idea of your own, we've compiled a list of 50 argumentative essay topics to help you get started!
20 Definition Essay Topics That Go Beyond the Obvious
The definition essay is deceptively simple. All you need to do is define a term or concept. But a definition essay is more than a simple dictionary definition. A definition essay extends the definition by providing examples to help readers understand the term or concept being defined. Let me say that again: a definition essay uses an extended ...
52 Argumentative Essay Ideas that are Actually Interesting
How to Pick a Good Argumentative Essay Topic Research An argumentative essay tasks the writer with presenting an assertion and bolstering that assertion with proper research. You'll present the claim's authenticity. This means that whatever argument you're making must be empirically true! Writing an argumentative essay without any ...
Top 100 Best Definition Essay Topics
It requires you to find the argument for definition essay topics that focus on an ill-defined or controversial concept. Then, you need to define your stance on a particular matter and convince readers of your perspective. Here are some good definition argument essay topics to consider: Mobile devices should be allowed in the classroom. Racial ...
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Try our student writing prompts. In 2017, we compiled a list of 401 argumentative writing prompts, all drawn from our daily Student Opinion column. Now, we're rounding up 130 more we've ...
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Argumentative Essay Topics for High School Students. Social media's impact on relationships. Lowering the voting age. Legalizing marijuana: Pros and cons. Effectiveness of standardized testing. Cyberbullying: Causes and effects. Free college education debate. Importance of financial literacy.
120+ Strong Argumentative Essay Topics
Choosing between argumentative essay topics can be hard; especially when you don't know where to start looking. Luckily, you can find over 120 topic ideas here, including our top 10 hot topics.
How to Write an Argumentative Essay
Make a claim. Provide the grounds (evidence) for the claim. Explain the warrant (how the grounds support the claim) Discuss possible rebuttals to the claim, identifying the limits of the argument and showing that you have considered alternative perspectives. The Toulmin model is a common approach in academic essays.
125 Strong Argumentative Essay Topics For Your Next Paper
The format of an argumentative essay typically consists of three basic elements: An introductory paragraph, stating topic and thesis. Supporting paragraphs, presenting arguments and unique facts. The final paragraph, restating supporting evidence and thesis. The length and complexity of the essay will vary depending on the level of the student ...
200+ Argumentative Essay Topics for Winning Arguments
2. Consider both sides of the argument. There must be two opposing positions in any good argument. Make sure your topic allows for both sides to have a valid argument . 3. Research the topic thoroughly. Take the time to research and understand both sides of the issue before you begin writing your essay.
Good Argumentative Essay Topics
A compelling argumentative essay topic possesses several key characteristics to engage readers and stimulate critical thinking. Here are some qualities to consider: The topic should address current issues or enduring debates that are significant to the audience or society at large. It should be timely and meaningful.
Example Of An Argumentative Essay (pdf)
Example Of An Argumentative Essay Writing an essay on the topic "Example of an Argumentative Essay" can be a challenging task, as it requires a careful balance between presenting a clear argument and providing relevant examples to support that argument. The difficulty lies in not only understanding the intricacies of constructing a persuasive argument but also in selecting appropriate examples ...

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