adequate definition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "adequate definition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the sufficiency or appropriateness of a definition in a particular context. Example: "In order to understand the concept fully, we need to establish an adequate definition of the term."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Much of the rhetoric around 'value creation' falls short, in my view, of an adequate definition of 'value'value

The Guardian

This description is unsatisfactory in that no adequate definition of the notion syllabic has yet been formulated.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But while that is an adequate definition, it disguises the full complexity of the situation, of the inter-relatedness of base and superstructure.

The Guardian - Sport

What kind of novels?" I find it oddly difficult to give an adequate definition of literary fiction to men with guns – and yet it's surprising how often they seem to need one.

The Guardian - Books

Some way further back, with four points, was 'Fancily trimmed hosiery will include it?' for SHORTIE, which I mention because it also received one 'anti' vote for failing to include an adequate definition.

The Guardian

Mr. Shah acknowledged that the poverty lines set by the commission did not constitute "an adequate definition of poverty" since they did not take into account malnutrition, sanitation, drinking water, housing and health.

The New York Times

Is this an adequate definition of torture?

SEP

Is this now an adequate definition of torture?

SEP

So an adequate definition of death must be adequate in the case of all organisms.

SEP

The adequate definition of effectiveness for desiccant wheels is also discussed.

Energy and Buildings

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The results of quality assessment of included studies using the NOS are shown in table 2. All studies reported that diagnoses of cases and controls were based on criteria and clinical records, and thus all studies were assigned points for 'adequate definition of cases' and 'definition of controls.' Three studies reported consecutive participants.

BMJ Open

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "adequate definition", ensure the context clarifies the criteria for adequacy. What makes the definition 'adequate' for the specific purpose or audience?

Common error

Avoid assuming a definition that's adequate in one context will be adequate in another. Always consider the specific requirements and expectations of the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "adequate definition" primarily functions as a descriptor, modifying a noun to indicate a definition that meets a necessary or acceptable standard. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a grammatically sound construction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "adequate definition" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's deployed across diverse fields, particularly in scientific and academic contexts. An "adequate definition" implies that the definition is sufficient, acceptable, and tailored to the specific needs of the situation. Related terms include "sufficient definition" and "appropriate definition". It is important to avoid the assumption that a definition adequate in one context will be universally so and one should always consider the context when evaluating the definition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sufficient definition

Focuses on the definition meeting the necessary requirements or being enough for a particular purpose.

satisfactory definition

Emphasizes the definition being good enough or acceptable, though not necessarily ideal.

acceptable definition

Highlights the definition meeting a minimum standard of quality or correctness.

appropriate definition

Stresses the definition being suitable or fitting for the given context or purpose.

reasonable definition

Suggests the definition is logical and justifiable.

valid definition

Implies the definition is sound and well-founded.

tenable definition

Indicates the definition is defensible or sustainable under scrutiny.

serviceable definition

Focuses on the definition being functional and useful, even if not perfect.

workable definition

Highlights the definition being practical and able to be implemented.

functional definition

Emphasizes the definition's ability to serve its intended function or purpose.

FAQs

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

You can use "adequate definition" to describe a definition that is sufficient or satisfactory for a particular purpose. For example, "The researcher sought an adequate definition of 'consciousness' for the study."

What's a good alternative to "adequate definition"?

Alternatives include "sufficient definition", "satisfactory definition", or "appropriate definition", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is a definition considered "adequate"?

A definition is considered "adequate" when it sufficiently explains the concept in question, is free from ambiguity, and meets the requirements of the context in which it's being used.

What does it mean when a definition is not "adequate"?

If a definition is not "adequate", it means it's incomplete, unclear, or doesn't fully capture the essence of what it's trying to define. It may require further refinement or clarification.