To begin an argument, it is often useful to first define terms. Unless both sides of a debate can agree on meanings, it is difficult to argue intelligibly.
Formal definitions
In a formal definition, the term to be defined is given, the class to which it belongs is identified, and how it is differentiated from that class is stated. For instance
| Term | Class | Differentiation |
|---|---|---|
| A cat | is a feline | that is a small, domesticated, pet. |
