a precise definition of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a precise definition of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to specify the exact meaning of a term or concept. Example: "In order to understand the theory, we need a precise definition of 'quantum entanglement.'"

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

A precise definition of 'health,' for example, appears elusive.

The New York Times

She asked me for a precise definition of the word "iconoclastic".

The New Yorker

A precise definition of them would require a detailed examination of every individual case.

The New York Times

Please give a precise definition of what you mean by "most distal dendrite".

Yale University

However, many people still struggle to find a precise definition of BPM.

The Complete Business Process Handbook Body of Knowledge from Process Modeling to BPM, Volume I

Mr. Stevens said specifics of the bill, including a precise definition of price gouging, had yet to be determined.

The New York Times

Even the guild has not agreed on a precise definition of artisanal bread, said Gina Piccolino, the executive director.

The New York Times - Food

Phoneticians have found it difficult to give a precise definition of the articulatory distinction between these two classes of sounds.

Britannica

Hence, an accurate measure of incidence, whether incidence proportion or incidence rate, requires a precise definition of the denominator.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The obligations of system building require a precise definition of the range of possible "justified" results of violence, namely, "security, autonomy and power".

The New York Times - Books

To analyze this problem properly, he realized, he had to come up with a precise definition of information, a dauntingly slippery concept.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a precise definition of", ensure that the definition you provide is unambiguous and leaves no room for misinterpretation. Support it with examples where necessary.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "a precise definition of" if you cannot provide a truly clear and specific explanation. It's better to admit the definition is complex or evolving than to offer a vague or incomplete one.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a precise definition of" functions as a noun phrase acting as a pre-modifier to a noun, typically referring to a term, concept, or idea. It indicates that a specific, clear, and unambiguous explanation is required. Ludwig AI indicates its usage is correct and widespread.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a precise definition of" is a commonly used phrase that introduces or highlights the necessity for a clear and unambiguous explanation of a term or concept. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various authoritative sources, including scientific journals, news publications, and academic papers. The phrase functions as a noun phrase and is particularly valuable in contexts demanding accuracy and clarity. When employing this phrase, ensure that the definition provided is truly unambiguous to avoid potential misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an exact definition of

Replaces "precise" with "exact", emphasizing accuracy and without any ambiguity.

a clear-cut definition of

Substitutes "precise" with "clear-cut", highlighting the lack of ambiguity and ease of understanding.

a specific definition of

Replaces "precise" with "specific", focusing on the particularity and lack of generality in the definition.

an accurate definition of

Uses "accurate" instead of "precise", stressing the correctness and truthfulness of the definition.

a well-defined concept of

Shifts the focus to the concept being clearly defined, implying precision.

a rigorous definition of

Emphasizes the thoroughness and strictness of the definition.

a detailed explanation of

Replaces "definition" with "explanation", broadening the scope to include more descriptive information.

an explicit definition of

Uses "explicit" to emphasize that the definition is clearly and openly stated, leaving no room for doubt.

a formal definition of

Highlights that the definition adheres to established conventions and protocols.

a technical definition of

Implies the definition is specific to a particular field or discipline and requires specialized knowledge.

FAQs

How can I use "a precise definition of" in a sentence?

You can use "a precise definition of" when introducing a term or concept that requires a clear and unambiguous explanation. For example, "To understand this scientific principle, we need "a precise definition of" 'quantum entanglement'".

What are some alternatives to saying "a precise definition of"?

Alternatives include "an exact definition of", "a clear-cut definition of", or "a specific definition of" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Why is it important to have "a precise definition of" certain terms?

Having "a precise definition of" terms is crucial for clear communication, avoiding misunderstandings, and ensuring accuracy in fields like science, law, and philosophy. Without it, discussions can become vague and unproductive.

In what contexts is "a precise definition of" most often used?

"A precise definition of" is frequently used in academic writing, scientific research, legal documents, and technical manuals where clarity and accuracy are paramount. It is also common in news reporting when explaining complex topics.