Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
a defined subset of
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "a defined subset of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when specifying a particular group or category that is part of a larger set, often in academic or technical contexts. Example: "In our study, we focused on a defined subset of participants who met specific criteria."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
Academia
Formal & Business
News & Media
Alternative expressions(2)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
41 human-written examples
Allergic reactions are typically elicited by a defined subset of proteins that are found in abundance in food.
We find that assembly of tropoelastin molecules in ELs are highly enriched for a defined subset of cross-links.
While Young Alumni Trustees are elected by a defined subset of the alumni body, their "constituency" on the Board is not their electorate, but the University as a whole.
Academia
The academic database, in which all of the data are collected for a defined subset of patients, is designed to investigate a specific population of patients to generate new knowledge.
Study participants were given the names and critical performance metrics — batting averages and number of home runs — of a defined subset of major league baseball players so they wouldn't have to depend on memory to know how successful a season a given player was having.
Academia
Our results using preclinical mouse models support the NF-κB pathway as a potential therapeutic target for a defined subset of lung adenocarcinoma.Using small-molecule compounds that inhibit NF-κB activity, we provide evidence that NF-κB inhibition has therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of lung cancer.
Academia
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
19 human-written examples
The problem, of course, is to specify more precisely what it is to be an approximate realization of a theory, or what exactly a "defining" subset of a theory is intended to include, and these are not easy questions.
Science
The result of her angst has been another alternative from a more defined subset of ingredients – essentially a mix of bacterial cultures she calls synthetic stool.
News & Media
Among them, Tfh cells, a recently defined subset of CD4+ T cells, play a particular role in mediating B cell-driven allogeneic responses.
Science
Here we have performed both optogenetic activation, and targeted ablation, of a genetically defined subset of VMHdm/c neurons in mice, using a battery of behavioral assays including those where a predator was not present (e.g., anxiety assays).
Science
We have performed both optogenetic activation, and targeted ablation, of a genetically defined subset of VMHdm/c neurons, in mice, using an extensive battery of behavioral assays.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "a defined subset of", ensure the criteria for defining the subset are clear to avoid ambiguity.
Common error
Avoid using "a defined subset of" when the subset's criteria are too obvious or general. Be specific about what distinguishes the subset from the larger group.
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "a defined subset of" acts as a determiner phrase, specifically quantifying a part of a larger set. Ludwig examples show it's used to specify portions within populations, data sets, or categories. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.
Frequent in
Science
75%
Academia
15%
Formal & Business
5%
Less common in
News & Media
5%
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "a defined subset of" serves to precisely identify a portion of a larger group, setting explicit criteria for inclusion. Ludwig examples are mainly in scientific and academic contexts, it points to formal writing where clarity is key. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical soundness, advising its usage when precision is needed.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
a specific subset of
Replaces "defined" with "specific", emphasizing the particularity of the subset.
a particular subset of
Substitutes "defined" with "particular", highlighting the distinctiveness of the subset.
a select subset of
Uses "select" instead of "defined", implying a choice or preference in the subset.
a designated subset of
Replaces "defined" with "designated", suggesting the subset has been officially or formally identified.
a prescribed subset of
Uses "prescribed" instead of "defined", suggesting the subset is determined by a rule or guideline.
a discrete subset of
Substitutes "defined" with "discrete", emphasizing the separateness of the subset.
a finite subset of
Replaces "defined" with "finite", emphasizing the limited nature of the subset.
a characterized subset of
Uses "characterized" instead of "defined", highlighting that the subset has specific attributes.
a delineated subset of
Substitutes "defined" with "delineated", emphasizing the clear boundaries of the subset.
a restricted subset of
Replaces "defined" with "restricted", suggesting that the subset is limited in scope or size.
FAQs
How can I use "a defined subset of" in a sentence?
Use "a defined subset of" when you want to specify a particular group or category that is part of a larger set and whose criteria are clearly established. For example, "The study focused on a defined subset of patients with specific genetic markers."
What can I say instead of "a defined subset of"?
You can use alternatives like "a specific subset of", "a particular subset of", or "a select subset of" depending on the context.
Is it better to say "defined subset" or "specific subset"?
Both "defined subset" and "specific subset" are grammatically correct and largely interchangeable. "Defined" emphasizes the clear criteria for inclusion, while "specific" highlights the particularity of the group. The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.
What's the difference between "a defined subset of" and "a sample of"?
"A defined subset of" refers to a clearly identified portion of a larger group based on specific criteria. "A sample of" implies a randomly selected portion of a larger group, often used for research purposes.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested