What should you do when there is more than one definition and you are writing an assignment?

• A. Note the disagreement and state the chosen definition
• B. Always pick the first listed
• C. Only cite one source
• D. Use all definitions equally without justification

Answer: (A)

When multiple definitions exist, the key is to acknowledge the disagreement and then choose one definition to anchor your argument, with a clear justification. This approach keeps your writing transparent and your analysis coherent because you’re showing you’ve considered alternatives and decided on a practical framework for your work. By stating the chosen definition and explaining why it fits your topic—its relevance, scope, and how it supports your research questions—you give readers a solid basis for interpreting your analysis. You can also cite the source of that definition to show its authority and briefly note how other definitions differ, so the distinction is clear without derailing your argument. The other options fall short because selecting the first listed is arbitrary, citing only one source can misrepresent the diversity of views, and using all definitions without justification leads to confusion and a weak, unfocused stance.