Paragraph

/ˈpær.ə.ɡræf/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A distinct section of writing that deals with a particular point or idea, usually consisting of several sentences.

The first paragraph of the essay introduces the main topic.

A subdivision of a written text that is typically marked by a new line or indentation.

Make sure to indent the first line of each paragraph for clarity.

A brief section of written text that is especially focused on one theme or argument.

The final paragraph summarizes the key findings of the report.

An excerpt or section from a larger text that provides supportive information or details.

The professor quoted a famous paragraph from Shakespeare in her lecture.

An isolated segment of written work used for editing or revision purposes.

Please revise the fourth paragraph to improve the argument's flow.

From Middle French 'paragraphe', from Latin 'paragraphus', from Greek 'paragraphos' meaning 'to write beside'.

topic sentence

The sentence that expresses the main idea of a paragraph.

closing paragraph

The final paragraph that summarizes the main points.

body paragraph

A paragraph that makes up the main part of an essay.

sentence

A set of words that conveys a complete thought.

essay

A short piece of writing on a particular subject.

A section of text that can be skimmed quickly.

I just read the paragraphs on the website for the highlights.

A unit of text used to break up dense information.

That article has huge paragraphs; I need it broken down.