as defined above

USAGE SUMMARY

"as defined above" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a definition or description that was given earlier in the same text. For example, "The definition of an 'apron dress' as defined above makes it distinct from other types of clothing."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Case in point: "checking letters", as defined above.

The Guardian

where is as defined above in Eq.(C.1).

Stanford University

As defined above, the epidermis is the outermost protective layer of the primary plant body.

Britannica

A scientific weakness is that there is no direct mechanical basis for magnitude as defined above.

Britannica

This extracurricular raiding and pillaging was indistinguishable from piracy as defined above.

Britannica

However, the dose response (as defined above) does suggest that diet is playing a significant role.

Harvard University

Past-due has the same meaning as "delinquent", as defined above.

Cornell University

The header is 0xE1 as defined above, and DriveChar can be A, B, C, and Z.

Cornell University

Entering employment comprises categories 01 to 05 of EMPCIR or categories A to D of Activity as defined above.

The Guardian

Entering employment comprises categories one to five of EMPCIR or categories A to D of activity as defined above.

The Guardian

They also had worse physical and mental health, as defined above.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as defined above" to ensure clarity and avoid repetition when referring back to a specific definition within the same document. This is particularly useful in technical or legal writing where precision is crucial.

Common error

Avoid using "as defined above" if the term or concept hasn't been explicitly defined earlier in the text. This can confuse readers and undermine the clarity of your writing. Always ensure that a clear definition precedes its use.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as defined above" serves as a referential marker. It directs the reader to a previously stated definition, ensuring clarity and preventing ambiguity. Ludwig provides numerous examples where this phrase is used to link back to earlier explanations or specifications.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

Academia

22%

News & Media

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as defined above" is a useful phrase for referring back to previous definitions, enhancing clarity and precision in writing. As Ludwig confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts. It is most commonly found in scientific and academic writing. When using the phrase, ensure that a clear definition precedes it to avoid confusion. While alternatives exist, "as defined above" provides a direct and unambiguous connection to prior context. The multiple examples found by Ludwig demonstrate its versatile application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as previously defined

This alternative replaces 'above' with 'previously', offering a slightly more formal tone.

as discussed above

Replaces 'defined' with 'discussed', indicating a broader conversation rather than a specific definition.

as explained previously

This highlights that an explanation was given earlier, suitable when the original text provides a detailed explanation.

as noted above

This version is appropriate when the information was simply noted or observed, rather than strictly defined.

as mentioned earlier

This phrase is less formal, focusing on the act of mentioning rather than defining.

as stated before

Similar to 'mentioned earlier', it emphasizes the act of stating something previously.

referring to the definition above

This is a more explicit and slightly more formal way to indicate reference to a prior definition.

consistent with the above definition

This implies adherence to the previously stated definition, often used in analytical or comparative contexts.

in accordance with the above definition

A formal phrasing, suitable for academic or legal contexts.

pursuant to the definition above

A highly formal and legalistic option.

FAQs

How can I use "as defined above" in a sentence?

Use "as defined above" to refer back to a definition previously provided in the text. For example, "The process should be implemented according to the guidelines, "as defined above"."

What is an alternative to saying "as defined above"?

Alternatives include "as previously defined", "as mentioned earlier", or "as discussed above", depending on the context.

Is it redundant to use "as defined above" if the definition is obvious?

While it might seem redundant, using "as defined above" can reinforce clarity, especially in formal or technical writing where precision is essential. However, in less formal contexts, it may be omitted if the meaning is unequivocally clear.

Can "as defined above" be used to refer to something several pages back?

While grammatically permissible, it's best to avoid using "as defined above" if the definition is significantly distant from the reference. Readers may have difficulty locating the original definition. Consider re-stating the definition or using a more explicit reference.