by that definition

USAGE SUMMARY

"by that definition" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when someone has provided a definition or explanation and you want to indicate that the following statement is based on that definition or explanation. For example: "By that definition, it is clear that this strategy will be successful."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

By that definition hers is a BPL family, and is entitled to up to 35kg of subsidised grains per month. .

BBC

By that definition and perspective, the way we work together definitely is a radical collaboration.

Cornell University

By that definition, this "Seagull" is anything but graceful.

The New York Times

And by that definition, Cameron is responsible for many gaffes.

The Guardian - Opinion

By that definition Obama is a politician, not a statesman.

The New Yorker

By that definition such people have always been around.

The New York Times - Arts

By that definition, it is obviously nonexistent in our country.

The New York Times

By that definition, was Trump engaging in charity?

The Washington Post

So by that definition, yes, the mission was a success.

The Washington Post

By that definition, Japan qualifies as the world's biggest.

The Economist

By that definition, Unlawful Killing may finally have found its spiritual home.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the definition you are referring to is clear and has been explicitly stated before using "by that definition". This avoids ambiguity and ensures your audience understands the connection you are making.

Common error

Avoid using "by that definition" if the relevant definition is vague, implied, or hasn't been explicitly mentioned. Instead, clarify the definition or rephrase to provide more context for your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by that definition" functions as a transitional phrase or discourse marker. It serves to explicitly link a preceding definition or explanation to a subsequent statement or conclusion, indicating that the latter is directly derived from or based on the former. Ludwig AI confirms that it is considered grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by that definition" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that serves as a transitional marker, connecting a previously stated definition to a subsequent statement or conclusion. According to Ludwig AI, its main function is to ensure clarity and precision in reasoning. The phrase sees frequent usage in "News & Media", academic, and professional contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the definition you refer to is clearly established to avoid ambiguity. Remember, alternatives such as "according to that definition" or "based on that definition" can be used to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

according to that definition

Replaces "by" with "according to", emphasizing the source of the definition.

based on that definition

Emphasizes the foundation of the statement on the provided definition.

in light of that definition

Suggests the definition sheds light on the subsequent statement.

given that definition

Highlights the definition as a given premise for the following conclusion.

under that definition

Implies the statement falls within the scope or conditions of the definition.

if we accept that definition

Introduces a conditional element, suggesting the statement holds true if the definition is accepted.

taking that definition into account

Emphasizes the consideration of the definition in reaching the subsequent statement.

that being the definition

Rephrases the connector using a participial phrase.

using that definition as a guide

Highlights the definition's role as a guiding principle.

employing that definition

Uses a more formal verb ("employing") to indicate the use of the definition.

FAQs

How can I use "by that definition" in a sentence?

Use "by that definition" to connect a previously stated definition to a subsequent conclusion or statement. For example, "A successful project meets all objectives. "By that definition", our project was a failure."

What are some alternatives to "by that definition"?

Alternatives include "according to that definition", "based on that definition", or "in light of that definition" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it redundant to use "by that definition" if the definition is already obvious?

While it might seem redundant, using "by that definition" can still add clarity and emphasis to your argument, particularly in formal writing. However, in informal contexts, it might be omitted if the connection is undeniably clear.

Can I use "by this definition" interchangeably with "by that definition"?

Yes, "by this definition" and "by that definition" are often interchangeable. Use "by this definition" when referring to a definition in the immediate context, and "by that definition" when referring to a definition stated earlier.