a textbook definition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a textbook definition" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to the definition found in a textbook, typically an academic textbook, or to refer to the definition as it is taught in a classroom setting. For example: "According to a textbook definition, a mammal is an aquatic or land-dwelling vertebrate characterized by the presence of hair or fur."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

This morning, House Speaker Paul Ryan called Trump's remarks "a textbook definition of a racist comment".

The New Yorker

If this was a textbook definition of racism, then so be it maybe racism was true.

The New Yorker

Louisiana Creole scholars use a textbook definition that transcends race and ethnicity.

The New York Times - Food

I couldn't find a textbook definition for the field that humanitarians recognise, but the following comes pretty close.

The Guardian

If that doesn't qualify as a textbook definition of Nevada's terrorism law, I don't know what does.

The Guardian - Opinion

You think we're having a conversation but I can't hear you, so please send me a text" … which I submit as a textbook definition of passive-aggressive.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Michael Yabsley would meet any textbook definition of a political insider.

The Guardian

The opening lyrics for the song describe Perry as a standard textbook definition of a platypus: "He's a semi-aquatic egg-laying mammal of action".

Wikipedia

My whole life I have been a classic, textbook definition of a "good girl," for better or for worse.

Huffington Post

As outlined in part one of this two-part series, marketing isn't as straightforward as it may sound, and a simple textbook definition doesn't do it justice.

Forbes

A cynical answer is: when your neighbour loses his job it's a slowdown (or, if you dislike him, a correction); when you lose yours, it's a recession; when an economic journalist loses his, that's a depression.The duller textbook definition of a recession is two consecutive quarters of declining output.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a textbook definition", briefly cite the specific textbook if possible to enhance credibility and provide a reference point for your audience.

Common error

Avoid exclusively relying on "a textbook definition" without providing context or real-world examples. Supplement the definition with practical applications to make it more accessible and relevant to your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a textbook definition" functions as a noun modifier, specifying the type of definition being presented. It indicates that the definition is derived from academic materials and is considered a standard explanation. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

25%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a textbook definition" is a useful phrase to introduce standard, academically recognized explanations of concepts. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely used. While common across various contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific writing, it's important to supplement textbook definitions with real-world applications to ensure clarity and relevance. Remember to avoid over-reliance on these definitions and consider citing the specific textbook to enhance credibility. Alternative phrases like "a standard definition" or "a classic definition" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a standard definition

Focuses on the definition being widely accepted, rather than specifically from a textbook.

a classic definition

Emphasizes the definition's long-standing and well-known nature.

a generally accepted definition

Highlights the consensus surrounding the definition.

an established definition

Indicates that the definition is well-recognized and not new.

the conventional definition

Stresses that the definition is the usual or traditional one.

a formal definition

Implies the definition is precise and suitable for academic or professional contexts.

an academic definition

Highlights the definition's origin and relevance within academic circles.

the dictionary definition

Points to the definition found in a dictionary, emphasizing its basic and widely accessible nature.

a working definition

Suggests a definition used for practical purposes, possibly subject to refinement.

the strict definition

Indicates that the definition is precise and adhered to rigorously.

FAQs

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

You can use "a textbook definition" to introduce a formal or widely accepted explanation of a concept. For instance, "According to "a textbook definition", photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy".

What are some alternatives to saying "a textbook definition"?

Alternatives include "a standard definition", "a classic definition", or "an established definition" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a textbook definition"?

It is appropriate to use "a textbook definition" when you are presenting a concept in a formal, academic, or educational context, and you want to emphasize the widely accepted nature of the explanation.

Is there a difference between "a textbook definition" and "the dictionary definition"?

Yes, while both provide explanations, "a textbook definition" typically offers a more detailed and context-specific explanation often tailored to a particular field of study, whereas "the dictionary definition" provides a basic and general explanation.