define our humanity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "define our humanity" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the characteristics, values, or qualities that make us human, often in philosophical or reflective contexts. Example: "In times of crisis, the way we treat each other can truly define our humanity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Ideas define our humanity.

Harvard Business Review

In my mind, speculative science marks a path to the future, while insights from the path define our humanity.

The Washington Post

The very notions that define our humanity and distinguish us from beasts.

HuffPost

These stories of resilience, courage and compassion are what nourish the soul and define our humanity.

Huffington Post

The artist is a supreme being, and art is to define our humanity, to encourage".

Huffington Post

Also, if the lesson of the film is that the method of our creation doesn't define our humanity then Deckard's status as a replicant shouldn't matter.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Instead of a megaphone summoning us to divine worship, it can focus our attention not only on our own plight, but also open our hearts to the suffering of others, deepening our empathy and defining our humanity.

The New York Times - Books

Our vast and rich emotional range defines our humanity.

Huffington Post

What is important, and what defines our humanity, is what we do when we feel the pain of these wounds.

Huffington Post

His values of responsibility, integrity, dedication and humanity define our mission.

Johns Hopkins University

It defines our shared humanity and common destiny.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In philosophical discussions, "define our humanity" is useful for exploring fundamental questions about human nature and ethics. Frame it within the specific ethical framework or philosophical perspective you are using.

Common error

Avoid using "define our humanity" in overly broad or vague statements without specific grounding. Instead of simply stating what defines humanity, provide concrete examples or explanations to support your claim.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "define our humanity" functions primarily as a means to explore and articulate the essential qualities and characteristics that constitute human nature. As Ludwig AI pointed out, its purpose revolves around pinpointing what distinguishes us as human beings. Examples of Ludwig AI point to contexts discussing morality, ethics, and empathy.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Academia

18%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "define our humanity" is used to explore and articulate the essential qualities and characteristics that constitute human nature. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and suitable for use in reflective and philosophical contexts. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media, as well as academic sources. The alternatives are useful in subtly shifting the emphasis, but the core idea stays the same, which is about reflecting upon what distinguishes us. Best practice, be specific rather than general.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

determine our human essence

Replaces 'define' with 'determine' and 'humanity' with 'human essence', focusing on the fundamental nature of being human.

establish our human identity

Substitutes 'define' with 'establish' and 'humanity' with 'human identity', emphasizing the creation of a distinct human identity.

shape our human character

Uses 'shape' instead of 'define' and 'human character' in place of 'humanity', highlighting the formation of moral and ethical qualities.

characterize our human nature

Replaces 'define' with 'characterize' and 'humanity' with 'human nature', focusing on the essential qualities of humans.

reveal our human condition

Substitutes 'define' with 'reveal' and 'humanity' with 'human condition', emphasizing the unveiling of the human experience.

illuminate our human spirit

Uses 'illuminate' instead of 'define' and 'human spirit' in place of 'humanity', highlighting the enlightenment of the inner human qualities.

articulate our human values

Replaces 'define' with 'articulate' and 'humanity' with 'human values', focusing on the expression of principles and beliefs.

understand our human essence

Substitutes 'define' with 'understand' and 'humanity' with 'human essence', emphasizing comprehension of the core human qualities.

interpret our human existence

Uses 'interpret' instead of 'define' and 'human existence' in place of 'humanity', highlighting the explanation of human life.

express our human selves

Replaces 'define' with 'express' and 'humanity' with 'human selves', focusing on the manifestation of individual human identities.

FAQs

What does "define our humanity" mean?

The phrase "define our humanity" refers to identifying and articulating the characteristics, values, and principles that fundamentally make us human, distinguishing us from other beings or entities.

How can I use "define our humanity" in a sentence?

You can use "define our humanity" to explore what makes us human in various contexts. For example, "Acts of compassion and empathy often "define our humanity" in times of crisis."

What are some alternatives to "define our humanity"?

Alternatives include phrases such as "determine our human essence", "establish our human identity", or "shape our human character", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What aspects of human existence does "define our humanity" typically address?

The phrase "define our humanity" typically addresses aspects such as moral values, ethical behavior, emotional capacity, intellectual capabilities, and the capacity for empathy and compassion.