define parameters

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "define parameters" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used in technical or academic writing to indicate the specific factors or variables that are being considered in a particular situation or analysis. Example: In order to accurately measure the effects of the new drug, we must first define the parameters of the study, including the dosage, length of treatment, and control group.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

They can define parameters, but it will have to come back to faculty athletic representatives, university presidents and athletic administrators.

The New York Times - Sports

Bologna, drafted in 1999 by 29 European ministers of education, was an attempt to define parameters for European degrees, both postgraduate and undergraduate.

The Guardian

For simplicity, we will adjust and define parameters so that the problem is solvable.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

At first, we define parameters which determine the layer structure of Rainbow.

Pacific Journal of Mathematics for Industry

On top of the new requirement, Brownback's bill would also require the Federal Trade Commission to specifically define parameters for describing game content and what would count as a mischaracterization of a game's content.

TechCrunch

Customized contrasts were used to define parameters in a way that directly addressed the issue of summer setback.

Large-scale Assessments in Education

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

He feels he can express himself within these defined parameters, a pattern or a grid".

The Guardian - Arts

Military science has tightly defined parameters; when it comes to parasitology, only research with practical applications gets funded.

The New Yorker

It's an editorial mix with vaguely defined parameters, but for me it's all about the candy-coated bullet of the political screeds.

The New Yorker

His belief that human decisions were made within clear constraints seemed to conform with the way that computers are programmed to resolve problems with defined parameters.

The New York Times

Was it challenging to figure out how to use those elements or liberating to start a story with such clearly defined parameters?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "define parameters" in scientific writing, ensure that each parameter is clearly operationalized and measurable.

Common error

Avoid defining parameters too broadly. For instance, instead of "success", specify quantifiable metrics like "achieving a 20% increase in sales within the first quarter".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "define parameters" functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun, indicating the action of specifying or establishing the variables that will be considered within a particular context. As noted by Ludwig, it is grammatically sound and often used in technical or academic writing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "define parameters" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase, particularly in scientific, technical, and formal contexts. According to Ludwig, the phrase is effective for setting specific variables in a study, project, or analysis. Best practices include clearly operationalizing each parameter, and avoiding vague definitions. Common alternatives are "establish criteria" and "determine specifications". The phrase is well-supported by authoritative sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian, solidifying its place as an important tool in academic and professional writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

determine specifications

Emphasizes the act of figuring out precise requirements or features.

establish criteria

Focuses on setting up benchmarks or standards rather than just defining variables.

stipulate requirements

Emphasizes the action of demanding specific conditions or needs.

specify conditions

Centers around outlining the circumstances or prerequisites.

set the terms

Highlights the establishment of the conditions or agreements.

establish boundaries

Emphasizes setting limits or borders within a system or process.

delineate constraints

Focuses on clearly marking the restrictions or limitations.

set limitations

Highlights the establishment of boundaries or constraints.

formulate guidelines

Highlights the creation of guiding principles or recommendations.

outline provisions

Suggests a broader detailing of terms or arrangements.

FAQs

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

You can use "define parameters" to describe the process of setting specific variables or conditions for a study, project, or system. For example, "Before starting the experiment, we need to define the parameters to ensure accurate data collection".

What are some alternatives to using "define parameters"?

Alternatives include "establish criteria", "determine specifications", or "set limitations", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to "define parameters" or "determine parameters"?

Both "define parameters" and "determine parameters" are correct, but "define parameters" is often used when setting parameters beforehand, while "determine parameters" might be used when identifying parameters through analysis.

Why is it important to "define parameters" clearly?

Clearly defining parameters ensures that everyone involved understands the scope and limitations of a project or study. This reduces ambiguity and increases the likelihood of achieving the desired outcomes.