be defined by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be defined by" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the characteristics that distinguish one thing from another. Example: "Success can be defined by how well one achieves their personal goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I want to be defined by consistency.

The New York Times - Sports

"Brooklyn could be defined by this space".

The New York Times

Vision must be defined by the leader.

Harvard Business Review

Yes – why be defined by your disability when you could be defined by something less "abnormal"!

The Guardian - TV & Radio

He didn't want to be defined by it.

The Guardian - Sport

Our culture has come to be defined by adrenaline.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"I refuse to help anyone be defined by victimization".

The New York Times - Books

Her presidency will probably be defined by climate change.

The Guardian

"Our community cannot be defined by one group.

The New York Times

I tried never to be defined by my past.

The New York Times

They should not be defined by their illness.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be defined by" to clearly state what factors or qualities determine the nature or essence of a subject. This helps in establishing a clear understanding of the subject's characteristics.

Common error

Avoid limiting the description of a subject solely to what defines it. Provide additional context to offer a more comprehensive understanding, preventing a reductionist view.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be defined by" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that the subject is acted upon and its essence or characteristics are determined by something else. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be defined by" is a versatile and grammatically sound construct used to express the defining characteristics or influences that shape a subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted and used across various contexts. With a neutral register, it fits seamlessly into both formal and informal writing. The phrase is particularly common in news media, science, and business contexts. When using "be defined by", ensure that you are clearly articulating the core attributes that determine the subject's nature, and avoid over-reliance on these defining traits to provide a balanced and comprehensive understanding. Alternative phrases such as "be characterized by" or "be determined by" can offer nuanced variations depending on the intended emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be characterized by

Focuses on the distinguishing traits or features.

be determined by

Highlights the factor that causes or controls the outcome.

be shaped by

Emphasizes the influence that molds or forms something.

be influenced by

Stresses the impact or effect one thing has on another.

be known for

Highlights a specific quality or attribute that is widely recognized.

be marked by

Indicates the presence of a notable sign or feature.

be identified by

Focuses on recognizing something based on specific characteristics.

be dictated by

Suggests that something is strictly controlled or determined by a specific factor.

be represented by

Emphasizes the aspect that serves as a symbol or example.

be constituted by

Focuses on the components that make up the whole.

FAQs

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

You can use "be defined by" to describe the essential characteristics or factors that determine the nature of something. For example, "Success can "be defined by" personal fulfillment rather than monetary gain".

What are some alternatives to "be defined by"?

Alternatives include phrases like "be characterized by", "be determined by", or "be shaped by", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "is defined by" or should I always use "be defined by"?

"Is defined by" is grammatically correct when referring to a singular subject in the present tense. "Be defined by" is the infinitive form, used after auxiliary verbs or to express general truths. For instance, "Happiness is defined by contentment" is correct, while "A good life should "be defined by" compassion" uses the infinitive.

What's the difference between "be defined by" and "be influenced by"?

"Be defined by" implies that certain factors determine the very essence or nature of something, while "be influenced by" suggests that something is affected or changed by external factors without necessarily altering its fundamental nature.