Figures of definition

Defining is a basic mode of discourse. As such, Definition is one of the Topics of Invention, serving as a common method for developing or supporting an argument. Even if definition is not employed to support a main point or develop the section of a speech, many figures are based on some kind of definition. The following figures are likely to be used either in the statement of facts, as part of a legal argument, or in your closing speech, although they may be used in other parts as well. Figures of definition that may be used in these parts of a legal argument are:

Horismus -Providing a clear, brief definition, especially by explaining differences between associated terms

Antonomasia -Substituting a descriptive phrase for a proper name, or substituting a proper name for a quality associated with it.

Circumlocution -Supplying a descriptive phrase in place of a name.

Systrophe-The listing of many qualities or descriptions of someone or something, without providing an explicit definition.

Correctio -To amend a term or phrase one has just employed.

Auxesis and Meiosis (tapinosis) are terms that involve a kind of redefiining—referring to something in terms disproportionately large or small.

Parenthesis -A lexical interruption may include a kind of explanation or definition, suggested by one Latim synonym provided (by Suarez) for this term, "interpretatio."

Synonymia -Employing multiple terms for the same idea is a kind of explanation or definition.

See Exergasia (expolitio)  which involves repetition of the same idea in different words, which can serve the purpose of explaining or defining that idea.