beginning to be defined

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "beginning to be defined" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a concept, idea, or situation that is in the early stages of being clarified or established. Example: "The parameters of the project are beginning to be defined as we gather more information from stakeholders."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

This is beginning to be defined in terms of the education reforms that have been put in place across the country in recent years.

The New York Times

While the nature of interactive TV is just beginning to be defined, there are already companies working to establish products for both broadcasters and end users, which they hope will lead to dominant market share and big profits.

Forbes

Although the total number of microRNAs remains controversial [4], [10], [11] and the roles of specific microRNAs are only beginning to be defined, microRNA expression analyses indicate that diverse tumors display microRNA expression profiles (for mature and/or precursor microRNAs) significantly different from normal tissue [12], [13].

Plosone

A mammary gland epithelial hierarchy is beginning to be defined.

Breast Cancer Research

Mild cognitive impairment is a clinical diagnosis and neuropathologic findings are just beginning to be defined.

BioMed Research International

Mutational spectra are just beginning to be defined for induced hprt mutations, e.g., ionizing radiation produces large deletions.

Environmental Health Perspectives

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

At the beginning of the 20th century, Groneman writes, "oversexed" middle-class women began to be defined as frigid, while some immigrants with the same condition were labeled "feeble-minded" and then deported because lust led to "delinquency".

The New York Times - Books

They are a shell of their former selves — all the beauty and brilliance begins to be defined by addiction.

TechCrunch

I would hate to be the one to decide where differences in genetics should begin to be defined as "wrong".

Huffington Post

As the war began to be defined along racial terms most white settlers in the region did not notice the distinction.

Wikipedia

The therapy started to be standardized and clear indications began to be defined.

Critical Care

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "beginning to be defined" when you want to convey that a concept or idea is in the early stages of development and understanding. It's appropriate when discussing evolving trends, emerging scientific fields, or projects in their initial phases.

Common error

While "beginning to be defined" is grammatically correct, overuse of passive voice can make your writing sound weak. Consider whether an active construction might be more direct and engaging. For example, instead of "The project is beginning to be defined by the team", you could say "The team is beginning to define the project".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "beginning to be defined" functions as part of a verb phrase, indicating an ongoing process of clarification or establishment. As Ludwig AI suggests, it describes the initial stages of something becoming more distinct and understood.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

40%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "beginning to be defined" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe something in the early stages of clarification or establishment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it often appears in neutral to formal contexts, particularly in scientific and news-related content. While the phrase is valid, consider using active voice for stronger writing when possible. Alternatives such as "starting to be understood" or "taking shape" may offer more direct or nuanced ways to express similar ideas. Understanding these subtleties can improve the precision and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the process of being defined

Adds a sense of ongoing action and progress in the definition process.

starting to be understood

Emphasizes the aspect of comprehension rather than the establishment of a definition.

being formulated

Implies a more structured and deliberate process of creation and definition.

being established

Focuses on the creation of a solid foundation or recognition.

taking shape

Focuses on the development of form or structure, often implying a more tangible evolution.

coming into focus

Emphasizes that something is becoming more distinct and noticeable.

becoming clearer

Highlights the gradual increase in clarity and understanding.

emerging as a concept

Specifically indicates that a new idea or concept is coming into existence and recognition.

under development

Suggests that the focus is on development and refinement.

in its infancy

Highlights the early stage of development and lack of maturity.

FAQs

What does "beginning to be defined" mean?

The phrase "beginning to be defined" means something is in the initial stages of being clarified, understood, or established. It implies that the concept or idea is not yet fully formed but is gradually taking shape.

How can I use "beginning to be defined" in a sentence?

You can use "beginning to be defined" to describe concepts, projects, or trends that are in the early phases of development. For example: "The role of artificial intelligence in healthcare is "beginning to be defined"."

What are some alternatives to "beginning to be defined"?

Some alternatives include "starting to be understood", "taking shape", or "becoming clearer". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "beginning to be defined"?

While "beginning to be defined" is in the passive voice, it is grammatically correct. However, consider using active voice when possible for clearer and more direct writing. For instance, instead of "The problem is "beginning to be defined" by researchers", try "Researchers are beginning to define the problem."