define for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "define for" can be used in written English, but it may sound awkward and should be used with caution.
It is more commonly used in spoken English. Here is an example of how it could be used in written English: "Can you please define for us the key terms used in this report?" In this sentence, "define for" is used to ask someone to provide a clear understanding or explanation of something for the benefit of the reader. Other examples where "define for" could be used: - "The teacher asked me to define for the class the difference between a metaphor and a simile." - "I need you to define for me the main objectives of this project." - "Could you quickly define for me the main features of this new software?" - "The dictionary defines for us the word 'perplexed' as being completely bewildered or puzzled."

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Who can define for us 'radicalization'?" he asked the students.

The New Yorker

Our ears define, for me, the nature of space".

The Guardian - Arts

I want you to define for us this word dodgy".

The Guardian

"Define for me an organization or group of people that effectively put themselves out of control".

The New York Times - Sports

I hope you can define for me how you can rebel on a free vote.

The Guardian

Ms. Menkes: Can you define for us exactly what you do and don't do.

The New York Times

"Let me define for you, simply and straightforwardly, what democratic socialism means to me," Sanders said.

The New Yorker

They continually discover and define for themselves what they will live with and not live with".

The New York Times

That is because no one sought to define for bidding nations what is and isn't proper".

The Guardian - Sport

We should be able to define for ourselves what makes us happy.

The New York Times

For, define for each.

Fixed Point Theory and Applications

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "define for", consider your audience. In formal writing, using a more precise verb like "elucidate", "specify", or "delineate" might be preferable to avoid any perceived awkwardness.

Common error

Avoid using "define for" too frequently in formal documents or academic papers. Opt for stronger, more precise verbs like "clarify", "explain", or "specify" to enhance the clarity and professionalism of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "define for" functions as a request for clarification or explanation. It typically involves asking someone to provide the meaning or understanding of a term, concept, or situation. Ludwig examples show it used both directly to request definitions and in more nuanced contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

42%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "define for" is used to request a definition or explanation, as analyzed by Ludwig. While grammatically correct, it may come across as less polished in formal writing and is more common in spoken English. According to Ludwig AI, alternatives such as "explain", "clarify", or "elucidate" may be preferred for formal contexts to ensure precision and professionalism. The phrase sees usage in both scientific and news media domains, but careful consideration of the audience is important when deciding whether or not to use it.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

explain for

Focuses on providing an explanation rather than a strict definition.

clarify for

Emphasizes making something clearer or easier to understand.

elucidate for

Suggests a more detailed and thorough explanation.

interpret for

Focuses on providing an understanding of meaning.

specify for

Highlights making something specific or detailing the particulars.

describe for

Offers a comprehensive account of the features or characteristics.

outline for

Implies providing a summary or the main points.

detail for

Focuses on presenting specific details about something.

demarcate for

Emphasizes setting limits or boundaries.

delineate for

Focuses on describing or portraying something precisely.

FAQs

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

You can use "define for" when asking someone to clarify or explain something. For example, "Can you define for me the term 'quantum entanglement'?"

What is a more formal alternative to "define for"?

Instead of "define for", you could use more formal alternatives like "explain", "clarify", or "elucidate" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to use "define for"?

Yes, it's grammatically acceptable, but Ludwig AI suggests it can sound less polished in formal writing compared to alternatives.

When is it appropriate to use "define for"?

It's suitable in informal settings or when directly asking someone to provide a definition. However, in formal or academic writing, consider using a more sophisticated verb like "specify" or "delineate".