a proper definition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a proper definition" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the need for an accurate or appropriate explanation of a term or concept. Example: "In order to understand the topic fully, we need to establish a proper definition of the key terms involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Union has yet to come up with a proper definition of professionalism, beyond 'flog the players'.

The Guardian - Sport

But the need for the state to establish a proper definition of marriage is a different matter, he says, because the law has always regulated it in the interest of parenthood and community.

The New York Times - Magazine

What is certain is that if the current government review of legal highs is to be taken seriously and lead to health improvements then there must be a proper definition of terms and improved data collection.

The Guardian

"What is certain is that if the current government review of legal highs is to be taken seriously and lead to health improvements then there must be a proper definition of terms and improved data collection," they say.

The Guardian

There is not even a proper definition of the term, which could mean anything from what a village priest provides when handing out alms to what state banks and credit unions offer to their least affluent clients.

The Economist

And in the absence of a proper definition of what is allowed under the "green box", or of "non-trade-distorting" support, we are sure to see more creative redefinition on both sides of the Atlantic to protect existing programmes.

The Economist

However, critics have repeatedly called for a proper definition of "national security", and raised questions about what should be permitted to protect "economic wellbeing" beyond the need to help UK companies defend themselves against the theft of intellectual property or from cyber-attacks.

The Guardian

Here is a proper definition.

SEP

We will give a proper definition shortly but first, here is a concrete example.

SEP

But, this property may lead to inconsistencies with a proper definition of a diffusion flux.

Journal of Computational Physics

However, a proper definition for a functional or orthodontic pacifier is missing.

Progress in Orthodontics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a proper definition", ensure that the context clearly indicates why a specific definition is needed and what makes it 'proper' (e.g. accuracy, completeness, or relevance).

Common error

Avoid using "a proper definition" without specifying why a certain definition is considered proper. This can leave the reader wondering what criteria are being used to judge its suitability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a proper definition" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It signifies the need for or existence of a definition that is accurate, suitable, and well-understood, as shown in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

55%

News & Media

24%

Formal & Business

21%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a proper definition" is a frequently used phrase that underscores the need for clarity and accuracy in explanations. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and appears across diverse fields such as science, news, and formal business communication. To enhance your writing, always ensure that when you use the phrase, you specify why a particular definition is considered 'proper'. Consider alternatives like "an accurate definition" or "a precise definition" to add nuance to your expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an accurate definition

Emphasizes correctness and precision in meaning.

a precise definition

Highlights the exactness and clarity of the definition.

a clear definition

Focuses on the understandability and lack of ambiguity.

a well-defined concept

Shifts focus to the clarity of the concept itself, rather than the definition.

a rigorous definition

Implies a definition that is thoroughly examined and strictly accurate.

a suitable definition

Suggests that the definition is appropriate and fitting for the context.

a valid definition

Focuses on the logical correctness and soundness of the definition.

a correct definition

Emphasizes the absence of errors and factual accuracy.

an accepted definition

Highlights that the definition is widely recognized and agreed upon.

an established definition

Suggests the definition has been around for some time and has been agreed on as a standard definition.

FAQs

How can I use "a proper definition" in a sentence?

You can use "a proper definition" to emphasize the importance of having an accurate and well-understood explanation for a term or concept. For instance, "To conduct this research effectively, we must first establish "a proper definition" of 'sustainable development'".

What are some alternatives to "a proper definition"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "an accurate definition", "a precise definition", or "a clear definition".

Why is establishing "a proper definition" important?

Establishing "a proper definition" ensures that everyone involved has a shared understanding of the term or concept, which is crucial for effective communication, research, and problem-solving.

In what fields or contexts is "a proper definition" most often needed?

The need for "a proper definition" frequently arises in fields like science, law, philosophy, and technology, where precise terminology is essential to avoid misunderstandings and ensure consistency.