define by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "define by" is not correct in standard written English.
It is typically used incorrectly; the correct phrase would be "defined by" or "define as." Example: "The term 'success' is often defined by personal achievements and goals."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We can define by.

Fixed Point Theory and Applications

Then, define by.

Fixed Point Theory and Applications

Now, we define by.

Fixed Point Theory and Applications

Finally, define by (2.3).

Fixed Point Theory and Applications

and define by, where.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

Now define by.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

Put and define by.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

We define by (1.1).

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

Case : we define by (4.5).

Advances in Difference Equations

For each, define by (3.59).

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

and define by for each.

Fixed Point Theory and Applications

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When intending to express that something is determined or identified by certain criteria, use the passive form "defined by" or actively "define as". For example, "Success is defined by personal achievements."

Common error

Avoid using "define by" directly. This phrase is grammatically incorrect. Always use "defined by" in the passive voice or "define as" when actively defining something.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "define by" functions incorrectly as it attempts to link a verb of definition with a preposition indicating the means. It is typically used incorrectly and should be replaced with grammatically correct alternatives. As Ludwig AI confirms, the correct forms are "defined by" or "define as".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

100%

Less common in

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "define by" is generally considered grammatically incorrect in standard English. Ludwig AI suggests that the correct forms are "defined by" or "define as". While examples of "define by" appear across various scientific contexts, it's crucial to use the grammatically correct alternatives to ensure clarity and credibility. Consider using "characterized by", "specified by", or "determined by" to more accurately express your intended meaning. Remember, the key is to express how something is determined or specified in a grammatically sound manner.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

characterize by

Focuses on describing the distinctive traits or features of something.

stipulate by

Emphasizes a formal or explicit agreement or condition.

specify by

Highlights the provision of detailed and exact information.

determine by

Focuses on discovering or establishing something definitively.

establish through

Highlights the method or process by which something is validated.

clarify using

Emphasizes making something clearer or easier to understand.

elucidate with

Focuses on shedding light on something through explanation.

describe in terms of

Emphasizes providing a detailed account using specific attributes.

identify based on

Focuses on recognizing or establishing something's identity using certain criteria.

set out in

Highlights the act of presenting or arranging details in a structured format.

FAQs

How should I correctly use the phrase "define by" in a sentence?

The phrase "define by" is generally considered incorrect. Use "defined by" when indicating something is determined by specific criteria, or "define as" when actively establishing a definition.

What's a better alternative to "define by"?

Instead of "define by", consider using phrases like "characterized by", "specified by", or "determined by" depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is it ever correct to use "define by"?

In standard English, "define by" is rarely correct. The passive form "defined by" or the active construction "define as" are the grammatically accepted options.

What is the difference between "define by" and "defined by"?

"Define by" is generally ungrammatical, while "defined by" is the correct passive form indicating that something is determined or characterized by something else. For example, "Success is defined by hard work and perseverance" is correct.