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Description vs. Definition: Know the Difference

Shumaila Saeed
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Description is a detailed account or portrayal of something. Definition is a precise statement explaining the nature, scope, or meaning of a word or concept.
Description vs. Definition

Key Differences

Description entails painting a vivid picture through words, providing details and characteristics of a subject. Definition, on the other hand, aims to clearly and concisely explain the essence, meaning, or identity of a term or concept.
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Description often uses sensory information and can be subjective, adding personal perception to the depiction of an event, object, or person. Definition strives for objectivity, seeking to establish an unambiguous understanding of a term or concept.
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Dec 20, 2023
While description can be expansive, embracing a narrative style to convey the nuances and atmosphere of the subject, definition is generally more concise, focusing on the fundamental aspects that distinguish the subject.
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In literature and storytelling, description plays a crucial role in setting scenes and developing characters, using elaborate and imaginative language. In contrast, definition is essential in academic, technical, and scientific writing, where precision and clarity are paramount.
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Description and definition serve different purposes in communication: the former enhances the richness and depth of the reader's experience, while the latter aims to ensure clarity and mutual understanding of specific terms or concepts.
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Comparison Chart

Purpose

To paint a detailed picture or account of a subject.
To provide a clear, precise meaning of a term.
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Nature

Often subjective and narrative.
Objective and factual.
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Usage

Common in creative and narrative writing.
Used in academic, technical, and legal contexts.
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Length

Can be lengthy and detailed.
Usually brief and concise.
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Focus

On characteristics, sensations, and experiences.
On explaining and clarifying terminology.
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Description and Definition Definitions

Description

The act of depicting or portraying something in words.
His description of the sunset was so vivid, I could almost see the colors in the sky.
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Dec 11, 2023

Definition

A description that specifies the meaning of a word or phrase.
The legal document included a definition of the term 'confidential.'
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Dec 11, 2023

Description

The process of explaining the appearance, characteristics, or qualities of something.
Her description of the old mansion was filled with eerie details.
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Dec 11, 2023

Definition

A statement expressing the essential nature of something.
The dictionary gave a precise definition of 'quintessential.'
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Description

A detailed account or illustration of a subject.
The detective asked for a description of the missing person.
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Definition

The act of making something clear or distinct.
His speech provided a clear definition of the company's goals.
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Dec 11, 2023

Description

A narrative or portrayal that provides a mental image.
The novel began with a detailed description of the rural countryside.
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Dec 11, 2023

Definition

The process of stating the exact meaning of a word.
The teacher asked for a definition of the word 'photosynthesis.'
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Dec 11, 2023

Description

A representation in words of a sensory experience.
The description of the meal made everyone's mouth water.
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Dec 11, 2023

Definition

A statement of the meaning of a word, phrase, or term, as in a dictionary entry.
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Dec 10, 2023

Description

The act, process, or technique of describing.
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Definition

A statement or description of the fundamental character or scope of something
"[The panel] calls for a clearer definition of the status of people captured in American military operations" (Economist).
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Description

A statement or an account describing something
Published a description of the journey.
Gave a vivid description of the game.
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Definition

The act or process of stating a precise meaning or significance; formulation of a meaning
The definition of terms is essential to any successful scholarly study.
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Description

A pictorial representation
Monet's ethereal descriptions of haystacks and water lilies.
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Definition

The state of being clearly outlined
"With the drizzle, the trees in the little clearing had lost definition" (Anthony Hyde).
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Description

A kind or sort
Cars of every size and description.
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Dec 10, 2023

Definition

The level of detail in a recording, production, or digital encoding of an image or sound.
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Description

A sketch or account of anything in words; a portraiture or representation in language; an enumeration of the essential qualities of a thing or species.
Give a verbal description of the events
A realistic description
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Definition

A statement of the meaning of a word or word group or a sign or symbol (dictionary definitions).
Your definition of "elephant" needs to be more precise than "a big animal with large ears".
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Description

The act of describing; a delineation by marks or signs.
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Definition

A clear instance conforming to the dictionary or textbook definition.
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Description

A set of characteristics by which someone or something can be recognized.
The zoo had no lions, tigers, or cats of any description.
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Definition

A statement expressing the essential nature of something; formulation
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Description

(taxonomy) A scientific documentation of a taxon for the purpose of introducing it to science.
The type description of the fungus was written by a botanist.
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Definition

The action or process of defining.
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Description

(linguistics) The act or practice of recording and describing actual language usage in a given speech community, as opposed to prescription, i.e. laying down norms of language usage.
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Definition

The act of defining; determination of the limits.
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Description

(linguistics) A descriptive linguistic survey.
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Definition

A product of defining.
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Dec 10, 2023

Description

The act of describing; a delineation by marks or signs.
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Dec 10, 2023

Definition

The action or power of describing, explaining, or making definite and clear.
Her comic genius is beyond definition.
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Dec 10, 2023

Description

A sketch or account of anything in words; a portraiture or representation in language; an enumeration of the essential qualities of a thing or species.
Milton has descriptions of morning.
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Definition

Clarity of visual presentation, distinctness of outline or detail.
The definition of a telescope.
Improve the definition of an image.
High-defintion videos
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Description

A class to which a certain representation is applicable; kind; sort.
A difference . . . between them and another description of public creditors.
The plates were all of the meanest description.
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Definition

Clarity, especially of musical sound in reproduction.
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Description

A statement that represents something in words
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Definition

Sharp demarcation of outlines or limits.
A jacket with distinct waist definition.
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Dec 10, 2023

Description

The act of describing something
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Definition

(bodybuilding) The degree to which individual muscles are distinct on the body.
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Dec 10, 2023

Description

Sort or variety;
Every description of book was there
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Dec 10, 2023

Definition

(programming) A statement which provides a previous declaration with a value or body of a subroutine (in the case of function).
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Dec 10, 2023

Definition

(mathematics) A statement that establishes the referent of a term or notation.
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Dec 10, 2023

Definition

The act of defining; determination of the limits; as, a telescope accurate in definition.
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Dec 10, 2023

Definition

Act of ascertaining and explaining the signification; a description of a thing by its properties; an explanation of the meaning of a word or term; as, the definition of "circle;" the definition of "wit;" an exact definition; a loose definition.
Definition being nothing but making another understand by words what the term defined stands for.
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Definition

Description; sort.
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Definition

An exact enunciation of the constituents which make up the logical essence.
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Dec 10, 2023

Definition

Distinctness or clearness, as of an image formed by an optical instrument; precision in detail.
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Dec 10, 2023

Definition

A concise explanation of the meaning of a word or phrase or symbol
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Definition

Clarity of outline;
Exercise had give his muscles superior definition
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Dec 10, 2023

Definition

A concise explanation of the meaning of a term or concept.
The scientific report began with a definition of the key terms used.
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Repeatedly Asked Queries

What is a definition?

A definition is a precise statement that explains the nature or meaning of a word or concept.
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Dec 20, 2023

How is description used in literature?

In literature, description is used to create vivid images and convey emotions through detailed narrative.
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Dec 20, 2023

What is a description?

A description is a detailed account or portrayal of a subject, often using sensory information.
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Dec 20, 2023

What makes a good definition?

A good definition is clear, concise, and accurately conveys the essential nature of the term it describes.
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Dec 20, 2023

Is description more creative than definition?

Generally, description is considered more creative as it allows for more narrative and sensory details.
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Dec 20, 2023

Are definitions always short?

Definitions are usually brief but can vary in length depending on the complexity of the concept.
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Dec 20, 2023

Can a description be subjective?

Yes, descriptions can be subjective, reflecting the perspective or feelings of the writer.
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Dec 20, 2023

Can a description be factual?

Yes, descriptions can be factual, especially in non-fiction and technical writing.
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Dec 20, 2023

What role does definition play in academic writing?

In academic writing, definitions ensure clarity and mutual understanding of specialized terms.
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Dec 20, 2023

Can descriptions be visual?

Yes, descriptions can create visual images in the reader's mind using vivid and descriptive language.
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Dec 20, 2023

How does definition aid in learning?

Definitions help in learning by providing clear and concise explanations of new terms and concepts.
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Dec 20, 2023

Can a definition change over time?

Yes, definitions can evolve as language and usage change over time.
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Dec 20, 2023

Is a definition always objective?

Ideally, definitions should be objective, but some can have subjective interpretations depending on context.
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Dec 20, 2023

Can a description be too detailed?

Yes, overly detailed descriptions can overwhelm the reader and detract from the main narrative.
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Dec 20, 2023

How does description enhance reading experience?

Description enhances the reading experience by engaging the senses and emotions of the reader.
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Dec 20, 2023

Why is description important in storytelling?

Description enriches storytelling by creating atmosphere, setting scenes, and developing characters.
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Dec 20, 2023

What is the importance of accuracy in definition?

Accuracy in definition is crucial for clear communication and avoiding misunderstandings.
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Are definitions necessary in dictionaries?

Yes, dictionaries primarily provide definitions to explain the meanings of words.
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Dec 20, 2023

Can description be used in persuasive writing?

Yes, description can be a powerful tool in persuasive writing to evoke emotions and support arguments.
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Is simplicity important in a definition?

Yes, simplicity in a definition helps in understanding and remembering the concept more easily.
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Dec 20, 2023

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Shumaila Saeed
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Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.

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