Ostensive
/ɑːˈstɛn.sɪv/
adjectiveC1
Definition
Ostensive describes something that is shown or demonstrated openly so that it is easy to understand. It often refers to explaining by pointing at or giving clear examples instead of just talking about something in words.
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See It in Action
Showing or demonstrating clearly, often by example or direct indication
- •The teacher gave an ostensive definition by pointing to the object.
- •His ostensive gesture made it clear what he meant.
- •The instructions were ostensive, using pictures to explain each step.
(In linguistics and philosophy) Referring to something by directly showing it rather than describing with words
- •The word "this" is ostensive because it points to something present.
- •Ostensive reference helps children learn language by linking words to objects.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of 'ostensive' like 'showing,' but more formal and used when you want to explain something clearly by example
- ✓Picture a teacher pointing at a picture in a book to explain a word instead of just describing it
- ✓It's the feeling when someone makes a clear sign or example so you understand without confusion
- ✓Sounds like 'oh-STEN-sive' → imagine someone saying 'Oh, see this!' while pointing directly at something
- ✓In stories, when a character points to a map to show the way, that is an ostensive action
- ✓NOT like 'describing' (only using words), ostensive means you actually show or point to the thing
- ✓NOT like 'implied' (hidden meaning), ostensive is clear and direct, not hidden or secret
Try Other Words
- •Demonstrative: clearly showing or pointing out (Use when emphasizing clear, direct indication)
- •Explicit: very clear and detailed (Use when something is stated clearly in words or actions)
- •Illustrative: serving as an example (Use when something helps explain by example)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: from Latin "ostendere" meaning "to show" + suffix "-ive" meaning "having the quality of"
- •Etymology: Latin origin, related to the verb meaning "to show or point out"
- •Historical development: Used since the 1600s to describe actions or words that show or explain clearly
- •Modern usage: Common in philosophy, linguistics, and education to describe clear demonstration or explanation
Reflect & Connect
•How can ostensive actions help when learning a new language or idea?
•Can something be ostensive without words? How does that change communication?
Fill in the blanks
1.The teacher used an ostensive gesture by ___ directly at the object to explain its name.
2.When a word is ostensive, it usually ___ to something present or visible.
3.Unlike a complicated explanation, an ostensive example is ___ and easy to understand.
4.Children often learn new words best through ostensive ___ rather than just hearing definitions.
5.An ostensive action is clear because it ___ what it means without needing extra words.
6.If someone only talks but does not show, their explanation is not ___.
7.The instructions were ostensive because they included pictures ___ the steps to follow.