Definition
A circular definition is a description of the meaning of a lexeme that is constructed using one or more synonymous lexemes that are all defined in terms of each other.
Examples
(Lexemes)
- fast—adj. 'swift; quick; speedy'
- swift—adj. 'rapid; fast'
Here is how the circularity can be resolved by the addition of an analytic definition and supplemental information:
- fast—adj. 'rapid in movement or action, often referring to the person or thing that moves; swift; quick; speedy'
- swift—adj. 'moving or capable of moving with great speed, often in a smooth and easy manner; rapid; fast'
Sources 1
- Neufeldt 1991, 493, 1353