That define

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "That define" is correct and usable in written English, depending on the context.
It can be used when referring to specific elements or characteristics that provide a definition or clarification of a subject. Example: "The parameters that define the project scope are crucial for its success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The qualities that define leadership have changed.

The Guardian - Opinion

There are restaurants that define a genre, and restaurants that define a street corner.

The New York Times

"It's the bits in between that define the localness.

The Guardian

For Penn, it is issues that define personality.

The New York Times - Magazine

Are there physical signs and symptoms that define the condition?

The New York Times - Health

They are pieces that define something fundamental about his music.

The Guardian - Music

These are the pressure situations that define games.

The Guardian - Sport

Those very icons that define a sailor have become obsolete.

The New York Times

What are the values that define a plucky Brit?

Independent

But these aren't the only things that define the city.

Independent

But Mr. Moffat has also given him a flair for inventive phrases that define common experiences.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that define", ensure the defining characteristics are clearly linked to the subject being defined to avoid ambiguity. Ensure the context offers enough details to understand why these are the qualities that defines the subject.

Common error

Avoid using "that define" with overly broad or vague characteristics. Be specific about the defining qualities to provide meaningful context and clarity. Instead of saying "aspects that define success", try "milestones that define successful project completion".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that define" functions as a relative clause, modifying a noun by specifying its defining characteristics. As seen in Ludwig's examples, it introduces essential qualities or criteria. It is a crucial construction for providing clarity and precision in descriptions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

23%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that define" functions as a relative clause used to specify the essential characteristics of a subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts. It is particularly common in news and media, science, and wiki articles, reflecting its utility in providing clarity and precision. When using "that define", ensure to link the defining characteristics clearly to the subject and avoid overly broad generalizations for the defining qualities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

which delineate

Emphasizes precise boundaries or outlines rather than broader definition.

that characterize

Focuses on typical or distinctive traits, suggesting representation.

which determine

Highlights the role of setting boundaries or conditions.

that establish

Stresses the creation or confirmation of something fundamental.

that distinguish

Focuses on unique qualities that set apart from others.

that identify

Highlights recognition or pinpointing specific attributes.

which specify

Emphasizes the act of stating something explicitly and in detail.

that exemplify

Points to something serving as a typical example or model.

that illustrate

Focuses on clarifying or explaining through examples or visuals.

which represent

Emphasizes the role of standing in for something else.

FAQs

How can I use "that define" in a sentence?

Use "that define" to introduce characteristics or criteria essential to understanding a subject. For example, "These are the qualities "that define leadership"".

What are some alternatives to "that define"?

Alternatives include "that characterize", "which delineate", or "which determine", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to use "that define" when specifying characteristics?

No, you can often use simpler phrasing depending on the context. For example, instead of "the factors that define success", you could say "the key factors for success".

What's the difference between "that define" and "that characterize"?

"That define" emphasizes essential criteria, while "that characterize" highlights typical traits. Defining qualities are necessary for something to be what it is, while characterizing qualities are representative but not necessarily essential.