Single Idea 11153

[catalogued under 2. Reason / D. Definition / 6. Definition by Essence]

Full Idea

A definition is an account of a what-it-was-to-be-that-thing.

Gist of Idea

A definition is an account of a what-it-was-to-be-that-thing

Source

Aristotle (Metaphysics [c.324 BCE], 1031a12)

Book Reference

Aristotle: 'Metaphysics', ed/tr. Lawson-Tancred,Hugh [Penguin 1998], p.184


A Reaction

This is cited by Kit Fine, as expounding his view that essence is definition. He gives this text as "definition is the formula of the essence". Is the account the 'logos', I wonder? I like this view.