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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
defined as follows
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"defined as follows" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are introducing or explaining a definition or description. For example: The term "student" is defined as follows: a person enrolled in an educational institution.
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
Academia
Alternative expressions(18)
described as follows
characterized as follows
can be defined as
as defined by
ascertained as follows
determined as follows
interpreted as follows
delineated as follows
categorized as follows
classified as follows
conceptualized as follows
designated as follows
identified as follows
predetermined as follows
indicated as follows
declared as follows
description as follows
implemented as follows
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
59 human-written examples
The problem is defined as follows.
Science
The apparent quantum yield (ΦH2) is defined as follows.
Science & Research
Let \(g : B → A\) be defined as follows.
Academia
This score is defined as follows (view slide).
Academia
More precisely, finiteness is defined as follows.
Science
That notion is defined as follows.
Science
These notions are defined as follows.
Science
defined as follows.
It was defined as follows.
These are defined as follows.
SNR is defined as follows.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "defined as follows" when you are about to provide a formal or technical definition. It signals to the reader that a specific and precise meaning will be given.
Common error
Avoid using "defined as follows" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "meaning" or "basically" to maintain a natural tone.
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "defined as follows" serves as an introductory signal, preparing the reader for a subsequent definition or explanation. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. Examples in the provided data showcase its frequent use in scientific and academic contexts.
Frequent in
Science
89%
Academia
10%
Formal & Business
1%
Less common in
News & Media
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "defined as follows" is a grammatically correct and highly functional phrase used to introduce precise definitions, particularly in formal and scientific writing. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. Its frequency and prevalence in academic and scientific sources underscore its importance in contexts requiring clarity and accuracy. While effective in these settings, it's best to avoid it in informal communication, where simpler alternatives may be more appropriate.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
described as follows
A straightforward alternative that emphasizes the act of providing a description.
characterised as follows
Focuses on identifying the key traits or features of something, emphasizing its distinct qualities.
ascertained as follows
Focuses on the process of finding something out, suggesting a more investigative tone.
determined as follows
Highlights the act of reaching a conclusion or decision about something, implying a more definitive quality.
interpreted as follows
Emphasizes a particular understanding or reading of something, suggesting a subjective element.
delineated as follows
Implies drawing a clear boundary or outline, suggesting precision and detail.
categorized as follows
Highlights the act of classifying something into specific groups, emphasizing organization and structure.
classified as follows
Similar to categorized, but can also imply a hierarchical arrangement.
conceptualized as follows
Emphasizes the mental construction or idea behind something, highlighting theoretical aspects.
designated as follows
Highlights a specific naming or appointment, suggesting an official or formal assignment.
FAQs
How to use "defined as follows" in a sentence?
The phrase "defined as follows" is typically used to introduce a formal definition. For example, "The term 'algorithm' is defined as follows: a step-by-step procedure for solving a problem."
What can I say instead of "defined as follows"?
You can use alternatives like "described as follows", "characterized as follows", or "can be defined as" depending on the context.
Which is correct, "defined as follows" or "defined as following"?
"Defined as follows" is the correct and more common phrase. "Defined as following" is grammatically incorrect in this context.
What's the difference between "defined as follows" and "as defined as following"?
"Defined as follows" introduces a definition immediately. "As defined as following" is grammatically incorrect. The phrase "as defined by" is used to attribute a definition to a specific source.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested