define the meaning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "define the meaning" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want someone to explain or clarify the significance of a word, phrase, or concept. Example: "In our discussion, please take a moment to define the meaning of 'sustainability' for everyone."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

(In other words, he thinks that the states alone should define the meaning of marriage).

The New Yorker

The results are a potent expression of the battle to define the meaning of American democracy.

The New York Times - Arts

Unfortunately, the great start proved to define the meaning of peaking early.

The New York Times

They do not, for instance, define the meaning of competent in referring to crane inspectors and supervisors.

The New York Times

Both principles, when they define the meaning of humanity without remainder, find everything that resists them expendable.

The Guardian - Opinion

Yet buildings fall down and moods change, so how can we define the meaning of architectural beauty?

The Guardian - Books

Sooner or later, Geithner will have to spell out what he wants – in other words, define the meaning of a "more flexible" yuan.

The Guardian - Business

Therefore, many legal regulations were introduced by governments to define the meaning and condition of a physically fit horse before going on transportation.

Journal of Veterinary Behavior

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Tara's mission is to re-define the meaning of "true health" and lead others to live happy, healthier, purpose-driven lives.

Huffington Post

Was a definition included in the questionnaire or were practitioners just asked something like 'Was your project successful?' and just left to self-define the meaning of 'success'success

F1000Research

Through the lives of Garnet and Isabella, we see the simultaneous wildness of the era and its social constriction as the girls seek to understand -- and to define -- the meaning of femininity and the power of unexpected love.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "define the meaning" when you need to establish a clear and precise understanding of a concept, especially in academic, technical, or legal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "define the meaning" in contexts where a simple dictionary definition is insufficient. Complex concepts often require nuanced explanations beyond a basic definition. For example: Don't just "define the meaning" of 'justice'; explore its various dimensions and interpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "define the meaning" primarily functions as a directive, often used to request or initiate a clarification or precise explanation of a term or concept. As evidenced by Ludwig, it serves to establish a shared understanding.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

30%

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "define the meaning" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression, primarily employed to request or provide a clear and precise explanation of a concept. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It finds its application across various fields like academia, news, and science. While versatile, it's essential to ensure the context warrants a formal definition rather than a superficial explanation. Alternatives such as "establish the meaning" or "determine the meaning" can provide a more formal tone. Understanding its function and purpose will contribute to more effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

explain the meaning

A simpler and more direct way of asking for an explanation of the meaning.

identify the meaning

Focuses on recognizing or pinpointing the existing meaning, rather than actively setting it.

determine the meaning

Emphasizes the process of figuring out or deciding what the meaning is, often through investigation or analysis.

establish the meaning

Suggests a more formal or authoritative declaration of meaning.

clarify the meaning

Implies that the meaning is already present but needs to be made more understandable.

elucidate the meaning

Indicates a more detailed and thorough explanation of the meaning, often for complex or obscure concepts.

interpret the meaning

Highlights the subjective aspect of understanding meaning, where different individuals may arrive at varying interpretations.

ascertain the meaning

Focuses on discovering the meaning through careful investigation.

spell out the meaning

Suggests a very clear and unambiguous explanation, leaving no room for doubt.

understand the meaning

Shifts the focus to the comprehension of the meaning, rather than the act of defining it.

FAQs

How can I use "define the meaning" in a sentence?

You can use "define the meaning" when you want to clarify or establish the significance of a word, phrase, or concept. For example: "In our discussion, let's "define the meaning" of 'sustainability' to ensure everyone understands it."

What is a more formal alternative to "define the meaning"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "establish the meaning" or "determine the meaning", particularly in academic or professional contexts.

Is there a difference between "define the meaning" and "explain the meaning"?

"Define the meaning" implies a more precise and formal specification, while "explain the meaning" suggests a broader and more descriptive clarification.

When should I use "define the meaning" instead of "describe the meaning"?

Use "define the meaning" when aiming for a precise and authoritative explanation. Use "describe the meaning" when providing a more general overview of the concept's significance.