I define myself

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I define myself" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing personal identity, self-perception, or how you choose to characterize yourself. Example: "In my journey of self-discovery, I define myself as a creative thinker and a lifelong learner."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

How do I define myself by my leavings?

The New York Times - Arts

"It's a big part of how I define myself".

The New York Times - Magazine

"I define myself as lots of things, not just my career, my life".

The Guardian

I define myself as a poet and as a mother – that's all".

The Guardian - Books

"By no means do I define myself only by that," Mr. Houston said in a telephone interview.

The New York Times

I define myself as a radical democrat (and socialist) and I recognise some negative points about the EU.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

In my 30s, I defined myself by my hair - sleek, dark and long.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

That a fellow wordsmith had been so personally negative of how I defined myself.

The New Yorker

And yet, Mandela has written, "I defined myself through my father".

The New Yorker

I never realised before how much I defined myself and my whole life, as a singer, as my voice.

The Guardian - Music

They said: "I'd put it off for so long, but finally I defined myself as 'mentally ill'.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "I define myself", ensure that the context provides clarity regarding the specific aspects or qualities you are emphasizing. This helps avoid ambiguity and allows for a more precise communication of your self-perception.

Common error

Avoid defining yourself solely through vague or abstract qualities without providing concrete examples or explanations. For instance, instead of saying "I define myself as creative", illustrate how your creativity manifests in specific actions or projects.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I define myself" functions as a declarative statement expressing self-identification. It highlights the speaker's agency in shaping their own identity, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples showing how individuals actively choose their self-descriptors. This aligns with Ludwig AI's assessment of the phrase as grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I define myself" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression used to assert personal agency in shaping one's identity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely accepted and versatile, appearing across various contexts from personal narratives in news media to more reflective discussions in science. While alternatives like "I see myself as" and "I identify as" exist, "I define myself" emphasizes a conscious and deliberate act of self-definition. It's crucial to use this phrase with clarity, backing up abstract qualities with concrete examples. Top sources like The Guardian and The New York Times often feature this phrase, showcasing its relevance in contemporary discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I see myself as

Focuses on personal perception rather than active definition.

I consider myself to be

Implies a reflective assessment of one's qualities.

I identify as

Emphasizes affiliation with a group or characteristic.

My identity is rooted in

Highlights the foundation of one's self-concept.

I characterize myself as

Suggests a descriptive and comprehensive portrayal of oneself.

I understand myself to be

Focuses on personal understanding and interpretation of oneself.

I view myself as

Highlights personal perspective and viewpoint.

I find my meaning in

Explores where one derives significance and purpose.

I express myself through

Emphasizes the ways one manifests their identity.

My self-concept revolves around

Indicates the central theme or focus of one's self-perception.

FAQs

What's the difference between "I define myself" and "I identify as"?

"I define myself" suggests a more active and deliberate construction of identity, while "I identify as" often implies alignment with pre-existing categories or groups.

What can I say instead of "I define myself"?

You can use alternatives like "I see myself as", "I consider myself to be", or "I characterize myself as" depending on the context.

How to use "I define myself" in a sentence?

You can use "I define myself" to express personal identity, for example, "Today "I define myself" as a happy, successful, devilishly handsome 44 year-old guy with a wonderful family and a bunch of great friends."

Which is correct, "I define myself" or "I am defined by"?

"I define myself" indicates agency and self-determination, while "I am defined by" suggests external forces or characteristics shaping one's identity.