an adequate definition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an adequate definition" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it 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

33 human-written examples

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

The Guardian

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

The department disputed those findings, saying that the committee had used an adequate definition and that decisions had been reached by consensuses of agencies with differing interests.

The New York Times

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

Finding an adequate definition of the search space is a non-trivial problem in such approaches, especially when the number of possible combinations is high due to the process complexity, and is mostly driven by expertise (e.g. heuristics).

Chemical Engineering Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

It is whether there is any adequate definition of the subject to which the codes are to be addressed.

Harvard University

A thing's essential properties are inseparable from the bearer, not only in the sense that the property is necessarily had by that object but in the deeper sense that any adequate account of what that object is involves that property; they are part of any adequate definition of the thing or answer to the question 'What is it?'.

SEP

As noted above (2.1), Davidson despairs of the possibility of an intuitively adequate definition of the mental.

SEP

For one thing, an extensionally adequate definition should exclude scientific-behavioral studies or medical illustrations of sexual activity (which tend to be neither erotic nor artistic in nature).

SEP

This account is intuitive, but perhaps it cannot be treated as a formally adequate definition of the notion of primary substance or individual.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an adequate definition", ensure that the context clearly indicates what standards or requirements the definition is meeting. Be specific about what makes the definition 'adequate' for its purpose.

Common error

Avoid assuming that a definition deemed "adequate" in one context is universally sufficient. Always consider the specific needs and audience when evaluating a definition's adequacy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an adequate definition" functions as a noun phrase, where "adequate" modifies the noun "definition". It identifies the quality or characteristic of the definition in question, suggesting it meets a certain standard or requirement. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an adequate definition" is a grammatically sound phrase used to indicate that a definition is sufficient or satisfactory for a specific purpose. Ludwig's analysis confirms its correctness and notes its occurrence in a range of contexts, particularly in science, news, and encyclopedic sources. While not extremely common, the phrase is valuable in academic, professional, and technical contexts where clear and precise language is essential. Remember to always contextualize why a definition is considered "adequate" to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sufficient definition

Focuses on the definition meeting the minimum requirements.

a satisfactory definition

Emphasizes that the definition meets expectations or requirements.

an appropriate definition

Highlights the suitability and relevance of the definition.

a comprehensive definition

Stresses the thoroughness and completeness of the definition.

a complete definition

Underscores that all necessary aspects are included in the definition.

a valid definition

Implies that the definition is logically sound and well-founded.

a fitting definition

Indicates that the definition is particularly well-suited to the subject.

a precise definition

Focuses on the accuracy and lack of ambiguity in the definition.

an acceptable definition

Highlights that the definition is agreed upon or meets certain standards.

a well-defined term

Shifts the focus to the clarity and established nature of the term being defined.

FAQs

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

You can use "an adequate definition" to describe whether a particular definition is sufficient for a specific purpose. For example, "The committee sought to establish "an adequate definition" of poverty that considered factors beyond income."

What's the difference between "an adequate definition" and "a precise definition"?

"An adequate definition" implies that the definition meets the minimum requirements or standards for a particular purpose. "A precise definition", on the other hand, suggests that the definition is accurate and unambiguous, leaving little room for misinterpretation.

What are some alternatives to using "an adequate definition"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a sufficient definition", "a satisfactory definition", or "an appropriate definition" to convey a similar meaning.

Why is it important to have "an adequate definition" of a concept?

Having "an adequate definition" ensures that everyone involved has a shared understanding of the concept, which is crucial for effective communication, collaboration, and decision-making. Without "an adequate definition", misunderstandings and disagreements are more likely to arise.