ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Coordinative definition

Okay, kiddo! A coordinative definition is like a special way of saying what something is by talking about how it works with other things that are similar or related. It’s like describing a toy by saying it’s a thing you play with, and it moves around and makes noise, just like your other toys that you play with.

So, let’s say we want to describe what a bicycle is using a coordinative definition. We could say that a bicycle is a vehicle with two wheels, pedals that you push with your feet, handlebars to steer it, and brakes to stop it. It’s kinda like a tricycle, but bigger and faster, and you have to balance on it when you ride it. It's also like a skateboard, but you don't have to use your feet to move it.

So, a coordinative definition is like putting different things that are similar or related together to help us understand what something is. It’s like putting puzzle pieces together to see the whole picture!