define on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "define on" is not correct or usable in written English.
Instead, you could use the phrase "define" or "rely on" depending on the context of the sentence. Example: When writing an essay, it is important to define your terms and rely on credible sources.

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Valid studies of ON require a better understanding of how well these codes identify ON and whether other data can be used to better define ON cases.

Arthritis Research and Therapy

All three commuter railroads define "on time" as arriving at its final destination within 5 minutes 59 seconds of a train's scheduled time.

The New York Times

Set, and define on as follows: (4.3).

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

(i) Let us define on by (2.6)  .

Advances in Difference Equations

Let us define on by (2.6).

Advances in Difference Equations

Assume that is convex and u.s.c. with nonempty convex compact values, and define on by for.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

(CTE/Def Jam) The Atlanta that Young Jeezy returns to with his fourth album, "TM: 103 Hustlerz Ambition," isn't like the one he left behind on his last album, three years ago, or the one he helped to define on his 2005 debut record.

The New York Times - Arts

Lloyd: Quality credit is one that is hard to define on a group basis.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

As such, the user lacks the ability to define on-the-fly the seed's location and/or span.

Biology Direct

We define on-going pregnancy as persistent pregnancy symptoms, no POC expulsion and enlargement of the uterus [ 19].

BMC Women's Health

We define On-Demand Service compasies as those that provide services to buyers in a short timeframe either through vertical integration or aggregated supply.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using the phrase "define on" in formal writing. Instead, use alternatives like "define in terms of" or rephrase the sentence for clarity.

Common error

Be cautious about directly translating phrases from technical or scientific jargon into general writing. While "define on" may appear in some contexts, it's often better to use more standard phrasing for broader appeal and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "define on" functions as a verb phrase with a preposition, attempting to specify the basis or context for a definition. However, Ludwig AI indicates that this construction is not grammatically correct in standard English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

70%

News & Media

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "define on" appears frequently, it is generally considered grammatically incorrect in standard English. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's best to avoid this phrase in formal writing and opt for clearer, more precise alternatives such as "define in terms of" or "define with respect to". The phrase's prevalence in scientific and technical contexts does not negate its grammatical issues, so careful rephrasing is recommended to ensure clarity and correctness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

define in terms of

This alternative specifies that the definition is provided using certain criteria or aspects.

define with respect to

This denotes that the definition is being considered from a particular viewpoint or framework.

establish a definition for

Emphasizes creating a formal or accepted definition.

determine the definition of

Focuses on ascertaining the precise meaning of something.

specify the properties of

Highlights detailing the characteristics or attributes of something.

characterize based on

Describes classifying or describing something based on certain features.

delineate the boundaries of

Focuses on clearly marking the limits or scope of a concept or area.

explain in the context of

Suggests clarifying the meaning within a specific situation.

elucidate the nature of

Implies shedding light on the essential qualities of something.

clarify the meaning of

Indicates making the understanding of something more transparent.

FAQs

What is the correct way to use "define" in a sentence?

The verb "define" should be followed by the term or concept being defined, often using prepositions like "in terms of" or "with respect to" for added context. For example, "Define the term in terms of its key characteristics."

Are there situations where "define on" might be acceptable?

While not grammatically standard, "define on" sometimes appears in technical or scientific contexts. However, it's generally advisable to rephrase for clarity and avoid ambiguity.

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "define on"?

Consider using phrases like "define in terms of", "define with respect to", or "establish a definition for" for clearer and more grammatically correct sentences.

Is "define on" considered formal or informal language?

Due to its questionable grammatical status, "define on" is generally considered inappropriate for formal writing. Opt for more precise and standard phrasing.