be defined as a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be defined as a" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when explaining or clarifying the meaning of a term or concept in a formal or academic context. Example: "In the context of this study, a 'sustainable practice' can be defined as a method that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Fiction can be defined as a coherent tissue of lies.

The New York Times - Books

It needs to be defined as a disease," he said.

Independent

'I don't want to be defined as a gay pop star, much the same as I don't want to be defined as a public-schooled one,' he says.

The Guardian - Music

This won't be defined as a people's movement with stones against an army with guns.

The New York Times

The instant a music can be defined as a genre and thus copied, it's dead.

The Guardian

Evolution itself has come to be defined as a change in gene frequency in a population.

The Guardian

The operation could not easily be defined as a Western crusade.

The New Yorker

A contemporary blockbuster could almost be defined as a movie in which production value is in inverse proportion to content.

The New Yorker

And make no mistake about it: French fries will never be defined as a major food group.

The New York Times

Let an issue be defined as a cause, and Americans, wary of the impersonal and abstract, will turn their backs.

The New York Times - Magazine

Despite all that, based on official baseball statistics, he can be defined as a "loser" - three times over.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be defined as a" to provide clarity and precision when introducing the meaning of a term or concept, particularly in academic or technical writing.

Common error

Avoid using "be defined as a" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "means" or "is" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be defined as a" functions as a definitional marker, introducing a specific and often formal definition of a term or concept. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It clarifies meaning, ensuring a common understanding within a given context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

54%

News & Media

39%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be defined as a" serves as a crucial tool for providing formal definitions across various domains. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and most commonly found in scientific and news contexts. When using this phrase, aim for clarity and precision, reserving it for instances where a specific definition is required. While alternatives like "be described as a" or "be characterized as a" offer similar meanings, they may lack the formal weight of "be defined as a". In summary, "be defined as a" is a valuable asset for precise communication, especially in formal and academic settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be described as a

Focuses on providing a description rather than a formal definition.

be characterized as a

Emphasizes the typical characteristics or features of something.

be identified as a

Highlights the act of recognizing or pointing something out.

be designated as a

Suggests a formal assignment or naming of something.

be considered as a

Indicates a general opinion or belief about something.

be regarded as a

Implies a specific viewpoint or assessment of something.

be classified as a

Highlights the act of categorizing something into a specific group.

be labeled as a

Focuses on assigning a specific label or name to something.

be known as a

Indicates that something is widely recognized or famous under a particular name.

be understood as a

Implies a general comprehension or interpretation of something.

FAQs

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

The phrase "be defined as a" is typically used to introduce a formal or specific definition. For example, "In this context, success can "be defined as a" achieving predetermined goals".

What are some alternatives to "be defined as a"?

You can use alternatives like "be described as a", "be characterized as a", or "be considered as a" depending on the context. Each alternative offers a slightly different nuance in meaning.

When is it appropriate to use "be defined as a"?

It's appropriate to use "be defined as a" when providing a formal definition, especially in academic, scientific, or technical writing. It helps to establish a clear and precise understanding of a term or concept.

What's the difference between "be defined as a" and "be considered as a"?

"Be defined as a" implies a formal, often authoritative definition, while "be considered as a" suggests a more subjective or general opinion. The former is precise, the latter is interpretive.