best defined as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "best defined as" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when offering a definition or description of something. For example: Talented individuals are best defined as those who possess a variety of skills and abilities.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Personally, I think it is best defined as autobiografiction.

The Guardian - Books

What can be best defined as tokenistic support was made available to staff.

The Guardian

It might be best defined as vodka with fruit and spice -- an American-style aquavit.

The New York Times - Food

The general learned the ins and outs of politics, best defined as how to keep the outs from getting in.

The New York Times - Magazine

I'd meet the other mothers up the hill from the chain pub, in an area best defined as Nappy Valley.

Independent

Development is best defined as creating conditions in which poor people can fully realise their rights – civil and political rights, as well as economic, social and cultural ones.

The Guardian

Kolbert's conclusion underlies the need to introduce eating competence, best defined as a biopsychosocial approach to eating which addresses issues related to food choice and eating behavior.

The New Yorker

2. Individual Voluntary Arrangements This is best defined as a formal proposal to a person's creditors to pay all – or part – of their outstanding debts.

Independent

With American political leadership best defined as "getting in front of whatever way the parade is going," Professor Heitmann is right: politicians haven't led.

The New York Times

One such example is Thrasymachus' claim that justice is best defined as the advantage of the stronger, namely, that which is in the competitive interest of the powerful.

The New York Times

N. GREGORY MANKIW, professor and chairman of economics department, Harvard 4. Economics is best defined as the study of: a. how to run a business most profitably.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "best defined as", ensure that the definition you provide is clear, concise, and appropriate for your intended audience.

Common error

Avoid using jargon or overly technical language when providing a definition with "best defined as". Aim for clarity and simplicity to ensure your audience understands the concept.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "best defined as" functions as a defining expression. It introduces a formal definition or description of a term or concept, clarifying its meaning for the audience. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

31%

News & Media

42%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "best defined as" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to introduce a clear definition of a term or concept. Ludwig AI confirms that its usage is correct. It is commonly found in various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias, with a neutral to formal register. When using the phrase, it's important to ensure that the definition is concise, clear, and appropriate for your audience, while avoiding overly complex jargon. Alternatives like "most accurately described as" or "can be characterized as" can be used to add nuance. Understanding and applying these best practices will enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

best understood as

Focuses on comprehension rather than strict definition.

most accurately described as

Emphasizes precision and correctness in the description.

can be characterized as

Offers a broader characterization instead of a precise definition.

is essentially

Simplifies the concept to its fundamental essence.

is tantamount to

Suggests equivalence or near equivalence.

is synonymous with

Indicates a direct synonym or interchangeable term.

is known as

Highlights common recognition or identification.

is considered to be

Presents a common or accepted view.

may be interpreted as

Focuses on a particular interpretation or understanding.

amounts to

Implies a result or consequence.

FAQs

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

Use "best defined as" to introduce a clear and concise definition of a term or concept. For example, "Success is "best defined as" achieving your personal goals and aspirations".

What are some alternatives to "best defined as"?

Alternatives include phrases like "most accurately described as", "can be characterized as", or "is essentially". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to use "best defined as" when providing a definition?

No, it's not always necessary. The phrase is useful when you want to emphasize that the definition you're providing is particularly apt or widely accepted. You can also simply state "is defined as" or "means".

What's the difference between "best defined as" and "commonly known as"?

"Best defined as" suggests a superior or more accurate definition, while "commonly known as" simply indicates a familiar or widespread name or description. Use "commonly known as" when referring to something's popular name, regardless of its accuracy.