defined as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defined as" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce an explanation or definition of a term or concept. For example, "The term 'critical thinking' is defined as the ability to think clearly and rationally."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

They are defined as refugees.

The Economist

Such a cryptosystem is defined as "perfect".

Encyclopedia Britannica

Thus, acids are defined as proton donors.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Such fronts are defined as active fronts.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A second-order difference is defined as.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The historic region was defined as Classico.

The New York Times - Food

His role is defined as a "trequartista".

The New York Times - Sports

These are defined as consonant triads.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Ms Das was defined as dusky.

The Economist

Q: What is defined as off-topic?

The Guardian

That's as defined as mush.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "defined as" when you want to provide a clear and concise explanation of a term or concept. Ensure the definition is accurate and relevant to the context.

Common error

Avoid making definitions too convoluted or filled with jargon. The goal is to clarify, not confuse. Use simple, direct language to explain what something is "defined as".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defined as" functions primarily as a definitional marker. It introduces an explanation or specification of a term, concept, or entity. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's used to provide clarity and establish a precise meaning.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

20%

News & Media

20%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

15%

Reference

15%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "defined as" is a versatile and common expression used to introduce definitions across various domains. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and serves to provide clarity and precision. Its frequency is very high, especially in scientific, news, and encyclopedic content. When using "defined as", ensure that the definition is accurate and appropriate for your audience. While there are several alternatives, such as ""is understood as"" and ""is described as"", "defined as" remains a clear and direct way to specify the meaning of a term.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is defined to be

Emphasizes the act of definition more strongly.

can be defined as

Suggests that multiple definitions might exist.

is understood as

Focuses on common understanding rather than a formal definition.

is known as

Highlights the recognition of something by a particular name or description.

is characterized by

Describes the key attributes that constitute a definition.

is described as

Offers a descriptive explanation rather than a strict definition.

is identified as

Focuses on recognizing and naming something according to its definition.

is interpreted as

Highlights the subjective understanding of a term or concept.

is referred to as

Indicates the common name or title used for something.

constitutes

Implies that certain elements form or make up a definition.

FAQs

How can I use "defined as" in a sentence?

Use "defined as" to introduce a definition or explanation. For example, "Photosynthesis is "defined as" the process by which plants convert light into energy".

What are some alternatives to "defined as"?

You can use phrases like "is understood as", "is described as", or "is known as", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "defined to be" instead of "defined as"?

While "defined as" is more common and generally preferred, "is defined to be" can be used, especially when emphasizing the act of definition itself.

What's the difference between "defined as" and "characterized by"?

"Defined as" provides a specific explanation, whereas "characterized by" describes the key attributes or features of something.