ostensive definition
C2Formal, Academic, Technical
Definition
Meaning
A definition that points to or demonstrates the thing being defined, rather than describing it with words.
In philosophy and linguistics, a method of defining a term by indicating examples of what it denotes, often used for primitive concepts or when verbal definitions are insufficient. In teaching, it refers to demonstrating meaning through direct physical indication or exemplification.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily used in philosophy of language, logic, semantics, and language pedagogy. Implies a non-verbal or demonstrative component to meaning assignment. Contrasts with verbal, stipulative, or lexical definitions.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. The term is identically used in academic philosophy and linguistics on both sides of the Atlantic.
Connotations
Neutral technical term in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency and specialised in both British and American academic contexts.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
The ostensive definition of XTo define X ostensivelyAn ostensive definition for YVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Pointing is the simplest ostensive definition.”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Standard term in philosophy of language, logic, semantics, and language acquisition studies.
Everyday
Extremely rare; would only be used in very specific discussions about meaning.
Technical
Core term in specific technical fields as above.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The tutor attempted to ostensively define the term for the beginners.
- One can ostensively define 'salty' by tasting sea water.
American English
- The professor ostensively defined the concept by using props.
- Parents often ostensively define 'hot' by keeping a child away from a stove.
adverb
British English
- He defined the term ostensively, by pointing at several examples.
- The meaning was conveyed ostensively rather than verbally.
American English
- She explained it ostensively, using a series of gestures.
- The concept is best taught ostensively first.
adjective
British English
- The ostensive method is fundamental to early language learning.
- He provided an ostensive demonstration of the tool's use.
American English
- Ostensive techniques are common in teaching concrete nouns.
- Her explanation was more ostensive than descriptive.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- A simple ostensive definition of 'apple' is to point to one and say the word.
- For young children, vocabulary is often learned through ostensive definition.
- The philosopher argued that some fundamental concepts can only be grasped via ostensive definition.
- The limitations of ostensive definition become apparent when dealing with abstract terms like 'justice'.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a teacher pointing to a colour chart and saying 'This is RED' – they are giving an OSTENSIVE definition (ostensive sounds like 'pointing to evidence').
Conceptual Metaphor
DEFINING IS POINTING, KNOWING IS SEEING.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid translating 'ostensive' as 'остаточный' (residual). The correct philosophical term is 'остенсивный' or 'указательный'. The concept is often discussed as 'определение путем показа'.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing 'ostensive' with 'ostentatious'.
- Using it to mean a vague or approximate definition (it is specifically demonstrative).
- Misspelling as 'ostentive definition'.
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'ostensive definition' MOST commonly used?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a specific type of example-giving where the act of pointing or demonstrating is the primary method of conveying meaning, often for very basic, perceptible concepts.
It is very difficult. Ostensive definition works best for concrete, observable objects, properties, or actions. Abstract ideas typically require verbal or theoretical definitions.
The philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein discussed it extensively in his later work, particularly in 'Philosophical Investigations', exploring its role in language learning and the problems of private meaning.
It can be ambiguous. Pointing to a rabbit could be defining 'rabbit', 'animal', 'white', 'running', or 'dinner'. The context and the learner's interpretation are crucial.