better definition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "better definition" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing improvements or clarifications to a previously stated definition or concept. Example: "To enhance our understanding of the term, let’s provide a better definition of 'sustainability'."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What better definition of a classic?

The Guardian - Books

Is there a better definition of nature?

Nature

I cannot think of a better definition of style.

The New York Times - Tech

I can't think of a better definition of masculinity.

The New York Times

There can be no better definition of failure than that.

Independent

Patients and doctors alike, we can get along quite nicely without a better definition of disease.

The New Yorker

Despite the morbidity, I can't think of a better definition of the writing life.

The New Yorker

It's hard to think of a better definition of the Pussy Riot "crime".

The New Yorker

If you can think of a better definition of bullying, let me know in the comments.

The Guardian - Opinion

A better definition for AIDS, according to Deeks, might be "acquired-inflammatory-disease syndrome".

The New Yorker

Here's a better definition: Deficits only matter when the president is a Democrat.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "better definition" when you want to indicate that a current definition is inadequate or needs improvement. It is suitable in contexts where refinement, clarity, or accuracy is desired.

Common error

While "better definition" is generally acceptable, consider using more formal alternatives like "more precise definition" or "refined definition" in academic or professional writing to convey a higher degree of sophistication and rigor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "better definition" functions as a noun phrase modified by the adjective "better". It typically serves to identify the need for or the provision of a more adequate or improved explanation of a concept or term. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "better definition" is a common and grammatically sound way to express the need for an improved or more accurate explanation of a concept. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is readily usable in writing across multiple contexts. While it appears frequently in News & Media and Science, it is versatile enough for general use. For more formal or academic settings, consider alternatives like "more precise definition" or "refined definition". Remember that using a "better definition" is most effective when clarity and shared understanding are paramount.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

improved definition

Replaces "better" with "improved", emphasizing the act of making something better.

clearer definition

Substitutes "better" with "clearer", focusing on enhanced clarity.

more precise definition

Emphasizes accuracy and exactness in the definition.

refined definition

Highlights the process of making a definition more subtle and accurate.

enhanced definition

Focuses on the enhancement of qualities of the definition.

superior definition

Suggests a definition of higher quality or excellence.

more accurate definition

Stresses the increased correctness of the definition.

updated definition

Indicates a definition that has been modernized or brought up to date.

revised definition

Implies a definition that has been carefully examined and altered.

alternative definition

Offers a completely different way to define something.

FAQs

How can I use "better definition" in a sentence?

You can use "better definition" to suggest an improvement to an existing one. For example, "We need a "better definition" of 'sustainability' to guide our policies effectively."

What are some alternatives to "better definition"?

Alternatives include "improved definition", "clearer definition", or "more precise definition", each emphasizing a slightly different aspect of the desired improvement.

Is it always necessary to seek a "better definition"?

Not always. Sometimes, the existing definition is adequate for the purpose. A ""better definition"" is warranted when the current one is vague, inaccurate, or leads to misunderstanding.

How does a "better definition" contribute to effective communication?

A ""better definition"" reduces ambiguity and ensures that all parties share a common understanding, leading to clearer and more effective communication and decision-making.