a specific definition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a specific definition" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to a clear and precise explanation of a term or concept. Example: "In order to understand the topic better, we need to establish a specific definition of what we mean by 'sustainability'."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Some systems collected information only on incidents that met a specific definition; other systems collected information on all incidents and then applied definitions retrospectively for analysis.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

The development of a specific definition of CAM and a classification of CAM modalities that reflect regional specificities are needed to conduct better comparative studies among multiple other countries.

BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Every non-invasive test is evaluated using the area under the ROC curve (AUC) that combines the sensitivity and specificity of a given quantitative marker for the diagnosis of a specific definition of fibrosis.

BMC Gastroenterology

Harari, it turns out, has a specific definition of useless.

The Guardian - Tech

Remember: "great" sounds really good without having a specific definition.

The New Yorker

Maryland goes further than that, articulating a specific definition for aggressive driving.

The Washington Post

That is up from 6percentt in 1993, although the category does not have a specific definition.

The New York Times

The first step taken was a discussion of a specific definition for MBO.

Journal of Pain and Symptom Management

To prevent this illogical outcome, the commission has proposed a specific definition of solicitation -- asking for a financial contribution -- that would allow normal political discourse to continue.

The New York Times

Clouds have a specific definition, he added: "discrete features that are optically thick and therefore would block the surface below them".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Each safety measure has a specific definition, assessment criteria and a specific methodology for verification.

Annals of Intensive Care

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a specific definition", ensure that the definition is clearly articulated and understood within the relevant context. Avoid ambiguity by providing sufficient detail.

Common error

Avoid using "a specific definition" when a more general description would suffice. Ensure the context truly requires a narrowed, precise meaning rather than a broader understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a specific definition" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It refers to the act of providing a clear and detailed explanation of a term, concept, or idea. As Ludwig examples confirm, it's very common to use this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

49%

News & Media

40%

Academia

4%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a specific definition" is a commonly used noun phrase that emphasizes the need for a clear and precise explanation of a term or concept. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently appears in scientific, news, and academic contexts. To ensure effective communication, always articulate the definition clearly and avoid overly broad language. Remember that precise alternatives like "a precise definition" and "a clear-cut definition" may better suit your specific need. Given its widespread use and clear communicative purpose, understanding and implementing "a specific definition" where necessary helps in precise conveyance of message across different environments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a precise definition

Emphasizes accuracy and exactness in the definition.

an exact definition

Stresses the accuracy and precision of the definition, leaving no room for interpretation.

a clear-cut definition

Highlights the unambiguity and clarity of the definition.

an explicit definition

Focuses on the definition being clearly stated and not implied.

a well-defined concept

Shifts the focus to the clarity and completeness of the concept's definition.

a detailed definition

Suggests the definition includes extensive and thorough information.

a particular definition

Indicates the definition is tailored to a certain context or purpose.

a technical definition

Implies the definition is specialized and used within a specific field.

a stipulated definition

Suggests the definition has been formally agreed upon or set down.

a designated definition

Indicates the definition has been officially assigned or chosen.

FAQs

How do I use "a specific definition" in a sentence?

Use "a specific definition" when you want to emphasize the need for a precise and well-defined meaning of a term or concept. For example, "The research requires "a specific definition" of 'success' to accurately measure the outcomes".

What can I say instead of "a specific definition"?

You can use alternatives like "a precise definition", "a clear-cut definition", or "an explicit definition" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

When is it important to have "a specific definition"?

It's crucial to have "a specific definition" when conducting research, writing legal documents, or discussing technical concepts where clarity and precision are paramount to avoid misunderstandings.

What happens if I don't use "a specific definition" when needed?

Without "a specific definition", communication can become ambiguous, leading to misinterpretations and errors, especially in fields that require accuracy, such as science, law, or engineering.