define something as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "define something as" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when explaining or clarifying the meaning of a term or concept in a specific context. Example: "In this paper, we will define democracy as a system of government in which power is vested in the people."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The latter point can be particularly vexing for bigger companies with many different divisions -- each with an entrenched view on how to define something as simple as revenue.

The New York Times

Intention was the key factor necessary to define something as abuse.

BMC Nursing

If you define something as unlawful, you are going to police it in the wrong way.

The Guardian

Before we define something as a "vaginal" orgasm, we would at the very least need to know what other stimulation is happening.

Huffington Post

We define something as an allergy when the body's immune system responds to a normally benign substance as though it were harmful.

Huffington Post

But for all the media's determination to call it a bubble, it's hard to escape the fact that you can't define something as a bubble until it bursts.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

So if everybody else defined something as torture, but we don't, they're wrong and we're right?

The New Yorker

The professionals were concerned that the task of defining something as ' most important", whether it is events or accomplishments, could be too difficult for some patients (questions 1, 6).

BMC Palliative Care

What are the effects of defining something like R.S.D. as a disease, as a neurological condition in which signals are crossed or distorted?

The New Yorker

If a scandal is defined as something exceptional — as an unusually egregious display of political squalor that sooner or later involves prosecutors and indictments — then this one is as Republican as privatized Social Security.

The New Yorker

A matrix may be defined as something within or from which something else originates, develops, or takes form.

Cardiovascular Diabetology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Be mindful of the audience when "defining something as"; tailor the definition to their level of understanding.

Common error

Avoid "defining something as" too broadly, which can lead to ambiguity. Be specific and provide enough detail to distinguish it from related concepts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "define something as" functions as a verb phrase used to introduce a specific definition or interpretation of a term or concept. It serves to clarify the meaning of a subject within a given context. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "define something as" is a commonly used and grammatically sound way to introduce a specific definition or interpretation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's usable across various writing contexts. While generally neutral, its formality can vary. Alternatives like "characterize something as", "describe something as", and "classify something as" offer similar but nuanced ways to convey meaning. When using this phrase, ensure clarity and specificity, avoiding overly broad definitions. While frequently found in news and scientific contexts, it's a versatile tool for clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

characterize something as

This alternative focuses on describing the qualities or features of something.

describe something as

This alternative is more general and emphasizes providing details about something.

identify something as

This alternative highlights the act of recognizing or establishing something's nature or identity.

classify something as

This alternative emphasizes categorizing something into a specific group or type.

view something as

This alternative implies a specific viewpoint or interpretation of something.

regard something as

This alternative suggests a particular opinion or perspective on something.

interpret something as

This alternative emphasizes understanding or explaining the meaning of something.

consider something to be

This alternative is a more formal way of expressing an opinion or judgment about something.

label something as

This alternative focuses on assigning a specific name or category to something.

deem something to be

This is a formal and legalistic alternative, often used in official contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "define something as" in a sentence?

You can use "define something as" to provide a specific meaning or interpretation of a term. For example, "We "define success as" achieving both personal and professional goals."

What's a more formal alternative to "define something as"?

A more formal alternative is "consider something to be". For example, "Academics "consider this to be" a landmark study."

Is there a difference between "define something as" and "describe something as"?

"Define something as" provides a specific meaning, while "describe something as" offers a general portrayal. For instance, you might "describe the painting as" vibrant, but "define surrealism as" a movement emphasizing the subconscious.

When should I use "classify something as" instead of "define something as"?

Use "classify something as" when you want to categorize or group something. For instance, you would "classify the animal as" a mammal but "define mammal as" a warm-blooded vertebrate with mammary glands.