are defined

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are defined" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when explaining the meaning or characteristics of a term or concept in a formal or academic context. Example: "In the context of this study, the key terms are defined in the glossary section for clarity."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

His triceps are defined?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

They are defined as refugees.

The Economist

Presidential races are defined by moments.

The New Yorker

Their desires are defined by that sign".

The New York Times - Food

Thus, acids are defined as proton donors.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Zines are defined by their materiality".

The New York Times - Books

Periodicals are defined by their tempo.

The Economist

Lids are defined with taupe shadow.

The New York Times

These are defined as consonant triads.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Such fronts are defined as active fronts.

Encyclopedia Britannica

First, two additional horizons are defined.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are defined", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is doing the defining and what is being defined. This helps avoid ambiguity and ensures clarity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "are defined" without providing a clear reference or source for the definition. Always ensure that the defined term is explicitly stated or readily understood within the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are defined" functions as a passive verb construction, indicating that a subject is receiving a definition. Ludwig AI shows that this usage is grammatically correct and widely employed across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Academia

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are defined" is a grammatically correct and very common passive verb construction used to establish the meaning of terms or concepts. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is frequently employed in formal contexts such as science, news, and encyclopedias. When using "are defined", it's crucial to provide a clear reference for the definition to avoid ambiguity. Alternative phrases include "are characterized" and "are specified", depending on the desired nuance. Its prevalent use across authoritative sources solidifies its validity and utility in academic and professional writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are characterised

Emphasizes distinctive traits or features rather than a formal definition.

are specified

Focuses on detailed and explicit mention or enumeration.

are determined

Highlights the process of establishing something definitively.

are delineated

Stresses the action of outlining or demarcating precisely.

are described

Centers on providing an account or representation of something.

are identified

Focuses on recognizing or establishing what something is.

are designated

Highlights the act of officially assigning a name or function.

are outlined

Focuses on presenting the main features or structure.

are refined

Suggests the process of improving or clarifying a definition.

are decided

Emphasizes the resolution or settling of a definition.

FAQs

How can I use "are defined" in a sentence?

The phrase "are defined" is used to explain the meaning or characteristics of a term or concept. For example, "In this study, key terms "are defined" in the glossary."

What phrases are similar to "are defined"?

You can use phrases like "are characterized", "are specified", or "are determined" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "are defined" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "are defined" when you need to provide a formal or explicit meaning of a term or concept, especially in academic, scientific, or technical writing.

What is the difference between "are defined" and "are described"?

"Are defined" implies a precise and formal meaning, while "are described" suggests a more general account or representation. Use "are defined" when precision is essential.