a satisfactory definition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a satisfactory definition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the adequacy or acceptability of a definition in a particular context. Example: "In order to proceed with the project, we need to establish a satisfactory definition of the term 'sustainability'."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

In purely qualitative terms, it does not offer many advantages over Liebig's definition of acids, but it does provide a satisfactory definition for bases.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In "Beat," a captivating celebration of Allen Ginsberg, the group's poet laureate and arguably its greatest voice, Kelly Groves has captured the spirit of a literary movement for which there has never been a satisfactory definition.

The New York Times

While it is still unlikely that many could give a satisfactory definition, the word itself is becoming increasingly common.

Forbes

As for the natural sciences, Rickert contends that Kant already provided a satisfactory definition of their logical structure.

SEP

A satisfactory definition of time travel would, at least, need to classify the cases in the right way.

SEP

The main objective of this study was to generate a satisfactory definition of end-of-construction conditions.

Transportation Geotechnics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

2008 A three-day "Great Planet Debate" is held at Johns Hopkins University to decide on a more satisfactory definition of a planet.

The Guardian

Attended by representatives of 35 governments—including the NATO countries, the Warsaw Pact nations, and 13 neutral and nonaligned European states the conference had as its principal purpose a mutually satisfactory definition of peace and stability between East and West, previously made impossible by the Cold War.

Encyclopedia Britannica

So we better find a more satisfactory definition of identity-dependence.

SEP

From this, slightly less than half of the students could give a fully satisfactory definition of common ancestry.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Haldane suspected, along with Pirie, that a fully satisfactory definition of life was impossible, but he asserted that the material definition was a reasonable goal for science.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a satisfactory definition", ensure the context clearly establishes what criteria are being used to judge the definition as satisfactory. Be specific about the standards or requirements it meets.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a satisfactory definition" is universally understood. Clearly articulate the parameters that make the definition adequate to prevent ambiguity and potential misunderstandings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a satisfactory definition" functions as a noun phrase, where "satisfactory" modifies the noun "definition". As Ludwig AI indicates, it describes the quality or state of being adequate or acceptable for a given purpose. The phrase indicates that the definition meets certain requirements or criteria.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a satisfactory definition" is a phrase used to describe a definition that is adequate or acceptable for a particular purpose. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While not extremely common, it appears in various contexts, including science, news media, and encyclopedias. When using this phrase, ensure that the criteria for satisfaction are clear and well-defined. Consider alternatives such as "an adequate definition" or "an acceptable definition" to add nuance. Avoid assuming that the meaning of "satisfactory" is universally understood, and clearly articulate the parameters to prevent ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

An adequate definition

Replaces "satisfactory" with "adequate", suggesting the definition is just good enough.

An acceptable definition

Substitutes "satisfactory" with "acceptable", indicating the definition is agreed upon or allowed.

A sufficient definition

Replaces "satisfactory" with "sufficient", meaning the definition is enough to serve its purpose.

A reasonable definition

Substitutes "satisfactory" with "reasonable", implying the definition is logical and justifiable.

A fitting definition

Replaces "satisfactory" with "fitting", suggesting the definition is appropriate and well-suited.

A valid definition

Substitutes "satisfactory" with "valid", indicating the definition is sound and well-founded.

A tenable definition

Replaces "satisfactory" with "tenable", suggesting the definition can be defended or maintained.

A workable definition

Substitutes "satisfactory" with "workable", implying the definition is practical and can be used effectively.

A complete definition

Suggests the definition covers all essential aspects, indicating thoroughness and comprehensiveness.

A well-formulated definition

Suggests the definition is carefully and clearly expressed, indicating precision and clarity.

FAQs

What does "a satisfactory definition" mean?

The phrase "a satisfactory definition" indicates that a particular definition is adequate or acceptable for a specific purpose or context. It implies that the definition meets certain requirements or criteria, though it may not necessarily be perfect or ideal.

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

You can use "a satisfactory definition" to describe a definition that is good enough for a particular situation. For example, "The committee needs to agree on "a satisfactory definition" of 'sustainable development' before the project can proceed."

What are some alternatives to "a satisfactory definition"?

You can use alternatives like "an adequate definition", "an acceptable definition", or "a sufficient definition" depending on the context. These alternatives convey similar meanings but may have slightly different nuances.

In what contexts is the phrase "a satisfactory definition" commonly used?

The phrase "a satisfactory definition" is often used in academic, scientific, and professional settings where clear and workable definitions are essential. It is also common in discussions about abstract concepts or terms that require precise understanding.