are defined as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are defined as" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when introducing a definition or description of something. For example, "Chemical bonds are defined as the attractive forces that keep atoms or ions together."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Similarly other paths are defined as, and.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

They are defined as refugees.

The Economist

Thus, acids are defined as proton donors.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These are defined as consonant triads.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Such fronts are defined as active fronts.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Systems are defined as mappings on signals.

University of California, Berkeley

At worst, people are defined as non-humans.

The Guardian - Books

Delinquencies are defined as loans 30 days past due.

The New York Times

They are defined as connection units.

Journal of Cleaner Production

Needs are defined as the internal motivations of the hero.

Britannica

All terms are defined as specialisations of the PROV terms.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are defined as" to introduce precise and formal definitions in academic and technical writing. For less formal contexts, consider alternatives like "are known as" or "can be described as."

Common error

Avoid using "are defined as" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler phrasing like "mean" or "are called" for better flow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are defined as" serves as a defining expression, introducing formal definitions or established meanings. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and suitable for formal contexts. Examples include, "Acids are defined as proton donors."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

55%

Encyclopedias

18%

News & Media

15%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are defined as" is a grammatically sound phrase used to introduce precise definitions, primarily in formal and scientific writing. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, highlighting its role in clarifying terms across diverse fields. While its usage is widespread, remember that it can be replaced by more informal alternatives like "mean" or "are called" in casual contexts to maintain a natural tone. Considering that, using alternatives depends heavily on the subject, context and target audience. Also consider the nuance that ""are defined as"" implies a precise, often technical definition. "Are described as" suggests a more general, descriptive characterization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be defined as

Offers a possibility or allowance for a definition, rather than a statement of fact.

are designated as

Emphasizes a formal assignment or naming.

may be defined as

Highlights the flexibility or multiple interpretations of a definition.

are classified as

Highlights the act of categorizing something based on shared characteristics.

are characterized as

Focuses on describing the typical qualities or features of something.

are known as

Indicates common recognition or familiarity.

can be described as

Focuses on providing a description rather than a strict definition.

are considered to be

Suggests a more subjective assessment or opinion.

are regarded as

Similar to 'are considered to be' but implies a more formal or respectful evaluation.

may be characterized as

Suggests that a certain characterization is possible, but not necessarily definitive.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "are defined as"?

You can use alternatives like "are designated as", "are classified as", or "are known as" depending on the context.

How do I use "are defined as" in a sentence?

Use "are defined as" to introduce a formal definition. For example, "Acids "are defined as" proton donors."

Which is correct, "is defined as" or "are defined as"?

"Is defined as" is used for singular subjects, while ""are defined as"" is used for plural subjects. For example, "A circle is defined as a set of points equidistant from a center" versus "Triads "are defined as" consonant triads".

What's the difference between "are defined as" and "are described as"?

"Are defined as" implies a precise, often technical definition. "Are described as" suggests a more general, descriptive characterization.