PHL 214 Chapter 5: Chapter 5 Language.docx
19 Mar 2012
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A stipulative definition establishes or restricts meaning for a particular purpose. A definition of a term t tells us what things are included in the class named by t. A definition that is too broad includes in those class things that out not to be there. A definition that is too narrow excludes things that out to be there. A definition that is too broad and too narrow includes some things it should exclude, and excluded some things it should include. An operational definition of a term t says that t can be used when and only when a specified operation yields a specified result. Persuasive definitions are disguised stipulative definitions, in which the redefinition of the term plays a crucial role in the argument. Emotionally charged language uses words with additional affective force often in an attempt to influence the listener or reader irrationally.
