defined by

USAGE SUMMARY

"defined by" is a perfectly valid phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to explain the parameters or characteristics that define something. For example, "The job of an accountant is defined by its focus on financial accuracy and precision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

INDIA is defined by division.

The Economist

criteria as defined by bank.

The Economist

It was defined by hardware.

The New Yorker

Leadership is defined by winning.

The New York Times - Sports

as defined by the International Labour Organisation.

The Guardian

Periodicals are defined by their tempo.

The Economist

Health is defined by lifestyle, not looks.

Independent

A writer is defined by his language".

The New Yorker

Composed, generally defined By the long sharing.

The New Yorker

It is defined by the syllabus.

The New York Times

"Artwork was defined by its ideological value.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "defined by" to provide a concise and comprehensive understanding of a concept or entity based on its key attributes.

Common error

Avoid using "defined by" without clearly specifying what the subject is being defined by. For example, instead of saying "Success is defined by something", specify "Success is defined by achieving personal goals and contributing to the community."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defined by" serves as a linking verb construction in the passive voice, indicating that the subject's essence or nature is determined by certain attributes. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "defined by" is a versatile and frequently used construction that effectively conveys the core characteristics or determinants of a subject. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its grammatical correctness and widespread use make it a valuable tool for writers across diverse fields. While applicable in both formal and informal contexts, as long as the subject's definition is specified, its prevalence in sources like The New York Times, The Guardian, and The Economist underlines its significance in news and media. Utilizing this phrase with clarity and precision is key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

characterized by

Focuses on the attributes that distinguish something.

determined by

Emphasizes the factors that decide or control something.

shaped by

Highlights the influence on the form or nature of something.

marked by

Indicates prominent features or characteristics.

governed by

Stresses the rules or principles that control something.

constituted by

Highlights the components or elements that make up something.

established by

Focuses on the creation or foundation of something.

dictated by

Emphasizes the authority or control over something.

identified by

Focuses on the recognition or distinguishing of something.

indicated by

Highlights the signs or signals that point to something.

FAQs

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

You can use "defined by" to describe the essential characteristics or attributes of something. For example, "A successful project is defined by its ability to meet deadlines and stay within budget."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "defined by"?

Alternatives include "characterized by", "determined by", or "shaped by", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "defined by" or "defined as"?

"Defined by" emphasizes the qualities that constitute something, while "defined as" is more suitable when giving a specific definition. For instance, "A democracy is defined by free elections" versus "A rectangle is defined as a four-sided polygon with four right angles".

Can "defined by" be used in both formal and informal contexts?

Yes, "defined by" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing, although the subject matter and surrounding language may vary depending on the context.