A gradational definition is a type of definition that describes a concept or term by explaining its characteristics or properties in relation to other similar or related concepts or terms. In a gradational definition, the term being defined is placed within a larger category or group, and its features are described in comparison to other members of that group.
For example, a gradational definition of the term "hot" might describe it as a temperature that is higher than "warm" but lower than "boiling". In this definition, the term "hot" is defined in relation to other temperature categories, and its properties are described based on its position within that hierarchy.
Gradational definitions are often used when the term being defined is difficult to define precisely on its own, and when it is helpful to provide context for the meaning of the term. They can be useful for helping people understand the nuances and subtleties of a concept or term, and for communicating that understanding to others.
