defines

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defines" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when explaining the meaning or characteristics of something, often in a formal or academic context. Example: "The term 'sustainability' defines the ability to meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He was a Dalit, from the lowest rung of the caste hierarchy that still defines the lives, and sometimes the deaths, of millions of people in the emerging economic power.

The Guardian

What she did immediately after the shooting defines the kind of woman she was.

The Guardian

"You shouldn't have to be what the world defines you to be.

The Guardian - Tech

That is the essence of our work and it defines our art form.

The Guardian

The guide, he said, "helpfully" defines "evening civil twilight" as "'that period between sunset and total darkness when it is necessary to use artificial light to carry out most activities'.

The Guardian

Men with poor health, low incomes, few qualifications and living in rented housing are hit hardest by loneliness, which Independent Age defines as the feeling of not liking isolation.

The Guardian

The move by the chancellor is designed to ensure he defines what he calls the "baseline" at the next general election – controlling the terms of the fiscal debate.

The Guardian

But in its current form, the bill defines the green purposes of the GIB in worryingly broad terms.

The Guardian

Nor does Miliband exaggerate when he defines today's choice as a Tory government for the rich or a Labour government for working people.

The Guardian - Opinion

For the fattest real burrito, El Farolito a few doors down does one the size of a bolster (and we didn't even supersize it), humming with vibrant flavours, in a sticky oilclothed atmosphere that defines grungy.

The Guardian - Travel

Theory Of Funny: Pathos This week, let's discuss pathos, which my online dictionary defines as "arousing feelings of pity, sympathy, tenderness, or sorrow", and then there's a pop-up offering a free-trial phone sex call with someone who can reduce my mortgage payment.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "defines" to clearly and concisely explain the meaning of terms, concepts, or boundaries. Ensure the definition is precise and leaves little room for ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid defining terms so broadly that the definition becomes meaningless. Ensure the definition distinguishes the term from related but different concepts.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "defines" is to act as a verb, specifically the third-person singular present tense of "define". It indicates the action of specifying the meaning or nature of something, as illustrated in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

33%

Science

32%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "defines" serves as a versatile verb used to establish clear meaning and understanding across diverse contexts. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and usable in written English. Its frequent use in news, business, and scientific domains underscores its importance in formal communication. When employing "defines", ensure your definitions are precise and unambiguous, differentiating the defined term from related concepts. For alternatives, consider phrases like "specifies" or "characterizes" for nuanced meanings. Understanding these nuances enhances writing clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

specifies

Emphasizes a more precise or detailed explanation.

characterizes

Highlights the distinctive qualities or features of something.

outlines

Suggests a summary or a framework of essential features.

determines

Focuses on establishing or deciding something definitively.

establishes

Highlights the act of setting up a standard or clear meaning.

elucidates

Implies making something clearer or easier to understand through explanation.

identifies

Points out or recognizes a particular aspect or quality.

designates

Indicates a formal assignment of meaning or purpose.

interprets

Focuses on understanding and explaining the meaning of something.

represents

Indicates that something stands for or symbolizes something else.

FAQs

How can I use "defines" in a sentence?

Use "defines" to specify the meaning or characteristics of something. For example, "The Constitution "defines the powers" of the president."

What are some alternatives to "defines"?

You can use alternatives such as "specifies", "characterizes", or "outlines" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "defines as"?

Yes, it is correct to use "defines as" when you are providing a specific definition for something. For example, "The dictionary "defines love as" a profound affection."

What's the difference between "defines" and "describes"?

"Defines" provides a precise meaning or boundary, while "describes" offers a broader account of characteristics or features. "Defines" sets a standard; "describes" offers a more general overview.