by defining

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by defining" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when explaining or clarifying a term, concept, or idea by providing its definition. Example: "The author enhances the reader's understanding by defining key terms throughout the text."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mr Hainsworth begins by defining his subject.

The Economist

We're hoping that by defining it, it will get better".

The New York Times

But Obama got where he is today by defining himself as the agent of change and by defining change as the issue in this election.

The New York Times

Proposition 8 overturned that decision by defining marriage in California as between only men and women.

The New York Times

Miller refuted the allegations by defining the sweet bird of youth in an elaborate metaphor.

The Guardian

By defining a series of minimal goals, Mr. Obama would seek to reduce American forces.

The New York Times

But Mr. Brooks reveals an overly limited vision by defining crisis in narrowly political-military terms.

The New York Times

By defining the plague for modern times, Mr. Wilson was free to engage the Collective.

The New York Times

Start by defining your goal.

TechCrunch

We start by defining the limiting object.

The Journal of Mathematical Neuroscience

We begin by defining some notation explicitly.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by defining", ensure that the definition you provide is clear, concise, and appropriate for your audience. Avoid jargon or overly technical language if possible.

Common error

Avoid making your definitions too broad or vague, as this can lead to confusion. Instead, focus on providing specific and measurable criteria that clearly distinguish the term or concept you are defining.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by defining" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the method or means by which an action is performed or a result is achieved. Ludwig examples show its use in introducing a definition that clarifies or establishes something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

31%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "by defining" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate that an action or result is achieved through the act of providing a definition. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct and sees frequent use in science, news media, and business contexts. When using "by defining", clarity and precision are essential to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternative phrases like "by specifying" or "through the definition of" to fine-tune your meaning. Avoid overly broad definitions to maintain clarity and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

through the definition of

A more formal way to express the same concept, emphasizing the process of defining.

through defining

Similar in meaning but places more emphasis on the process itself.

in defining

Emphasizes the action as part of a larger process or context.

by delineating

Focuses on outlining or marking the boundaries of something, similar to defining but with an emphasis on spatial or conceptual limits.

through the act of defining

Emphasizes the conscious and deliberate action of providing a definition.

by specifying

Focuses on stating something explicitly and in detail, often as part of a definition.

by identifying

Highlights the act of recognizing or establishing something specific, which can be a step in the process of defining.

by stipulating

Implies setting down a requirement or condition in an agreement, which serves to define its terms.

by establishing

Highlights setting up or creating something, which can involve defining its properties or parameters.

by determining

Focuses on finding out or deciding on something, which can lead to a definition.

FAQs

How can I use "by defining" in a sentence?

You can use "by defining" to explain how something is established or understood, such as "The project achieved success "by defining" clear objectives at the outset."

What are some alternatives to "by defining"?

Alternatives include "by specifying", "by identifying", or "through the definition of", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "by defining" or "through defining"?

Both "by defining" and "through defining" are grammatically correct and largely interchangeable. "By defining" is slightly more common, while "through defining" might emphasize the process more directly.

When is it appropriate to use "by defining" in formal writing?

"By defining" is appropriate in formal writing when you need to establish a clear meaning or scope for a term or concept. It's often used in academic papers, technical reports, and legal documents.