collectively define

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "collectively define" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a group of people or entities coming together to establish a shared understanding or meaning of a concept or term. Example: "The committee members will collectively define the goals for the upcoming project during their meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

These things, as standalones or collectively, define how I see the world.

The Guardian - Opinion

Third, there are all the assets, tangible and intangible, that collectively define a business.

Harvard Business Review

These inputs collectively define the normal functions of tissues like the mammary gland and the uterus.

Steroids

The more we collectively define what it takes, the better we'll be able to identify and train this next generation.

Harvard Business Review

Contextual stimuli can take many forms, but of particular importance are those that collectively define a particular place or situation.

Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews

Unusual difficulties are encountered when characterizing the spatial distribution of the properties that collectively define the state of estuaries.

Environmental Modelling & Software

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

Within them, individual "roles" are collectively defined and assigned to accomplish the work.

Harvard Business Review

Within them, individual roles are collectively defined and assigned to accomplish the work.

Harvard Business Review

Mr. Johns, John Cage, Merce Cunningham and Mr. Rauschenberg, without sharing exactly the same point of view, collectively defined this new era of experimentation in American culture.

The New York Times - Arts

In women, low sexual desire and/or sexual arousal can lead to sexual dissatisfaction and emotional distress, collectively defined as female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD).

The Journal of Sexual Medicine

Non invasive imaging modalities capable of quantifying molecular processes in vivo (collectively defined as "molecular imaging" techniques) are extremely interesting in this respect.

Zeitschrift für Medizinische Physik

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "collectively define", ensure the context makes it clear who or what is doing the defining and what is being defined. Clarity is key for effective communication.

Common error

Avoid using "collectively define" when a formal, expert-driven definition is required. This phrase implies a democratic process of definition, which may not be suitable for technical or specialized fields where definitions are precisely established by authorities.

Linguistic Context

Collectively define functions as a verb phrase. It indicates a process where a group or multiple entities work together to establish a common definition or understanding of a term, concept, or goal. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

32%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "collectively define" is a verb phrase used to describe a collaborative process of establishing a common definition or understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. It is most frequently used in scientific and news contexts, suggesting a neutral to professional register. To ensure clarity, be mindful of the context and audience when using this phrase, particularly in fields where precision and authority are paramount. Alternatives such as "jointly define" or "mutually define" can be used to add nuanced emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

jointly define

Replaces "collectively" with "jointly", emphasizing the shared action of defining.

mutually define

Similar to "jointly define", but highlights the reciprocal nature of the definition process.

commonly establish

Uses "establish" instead of "define", focusing on the act of setting up a common understanding.

collectively determine

Substitutes "define" with "determine", suggesting a process of discovery or ascertainment.

jointly establish the meaning

Expands the phrase to explicitly include "the meaning", clarifying the object of the definition.

agree on a definition

Rephrases the action as an agreement on a specific definition.

together formulate a definition

Uses "formulate" to imply a more structured or formal definition process.

reach a consensus on the definition

Focuses on the process of reaching an agreement or consensus.

establish a shared understanding

Emphasizes the outcome of the defining process: a shared understanding.

collaboratively set standards

Shifts the focus to setting standards rather than just defining.

FAQs

How can I use "collectively define" in a sentence?

You can use "collectively define" to indicate that a group is working together to establish the meaning of something, as in, "The team will "collectively define" the project's objectives."

What phrases are similar to "collectively define"?

Similar phrases include "jointly define", "mutually define", or "collaboratively establish". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "collectively define" in formal writing?

Yes, "collectively define" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing a collaborative process. However, ensure that the context aligns with the implication of a shared, rather than authoritatively imposed, definition.

What is the difference between "collectively define" and "individually define"?

"Collectively define" implies a group effort to establish a shared meaning, while "individually define" suggests that each person comes up with their own, possibly differing, interpretation. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize a unified or diverse perspective.