defines to be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defines to be" is not standard in written English and may cause confusion.
It can be used in contexts where one is explaining or establishing a definition, but it is more common to see "is defined as" instead. Example: "In mathematics, a circle is defined to be the set of all points equidistant from a given point."

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

About half of what Gartner defines to be cloud services are, in fact, the computing power involved in the display and tracking of Internet ads.

The New York Times - Tech

Then one defines to be the number (provided it exists) with the property that given any, there is a neighborhood of such that (2.2).

Advances in Difference Equations

Assume is a function and let Then one defines to be the number (provided it exists) with the property that given any there is a neighborhood of (i.e., for some ) such that (22).

Advances in Difference Equations

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Should data processing be re-defined to be made less inclusive?

The Guardian - Tech

A topological property is defined to be a property that is preserved under a homeomorphism.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Define to be (45).

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

Define to be the composition.

Fixed Point Theory and Applications

Time is defined to be t.

Robotics and Biomimetics

If, we define to be Define by (1.7).

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

Define to be an allocation indicator: (2).

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

For every, the spectral radius of is defined to be.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When defining a term, ensure the definition is clear, concise, and unambiguous to avoid confusion. Using "is defined as" can often improve clarity and readability compared to "defines to be".

Common error

Avoid using overly complex language when defining terms. A simple and straightforward definition is more effective. For example, instead of a convoluted explanation using "defines to be", opt for a direct definition using "is defined as".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defines to be" functions as a definitional expression, used to introduce or specify the meaning of a term or concept. This usage can be observed in the Ludwig examples provided, where mathematical or technical terms are being clarified.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

66%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "defines to be" is an acceptable but not particularly common way to introduce a definition. While grammatically sound, it is often perceived as less conventional than alternatives like "is defined as". Ludwig examples show its use in academic and technical contexts, primarily within scientific domains. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase isn't standard in written English, potentially leading to confusion, but provides examples from the web to give additional context. For clarity and broader acceptance, consider using "is defined as" or similar alternatives. The usage of "defines to be" aims to establish clear and unambiguous meanings for terms, particularly in scientific or technical discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is defined as

A more standard and common way to express a definition.

we define as

Highlights that the definition is being established by the speaker/writer.

let's define as

Suggests a collaborative agreement on a definition.

is understood to be

Focuses on the common understanding or interpretation of something.

can be defined as

Indicates that a definition is possible or permissible.

is considered to be

Highlights a generally accepted viewpoint or classification.

is known as

Emphasizes the established name or designation of something.

shall be defined as

Implies a formal or legal definition.

is termed

A more formal and concise way of indicating a specific term.

is equivalent to

Focuses on the equality or interchangeability of two things.

FAQs

What's a more common way to say "defines to be"?

A more standard and common alternative is "is defined as". It is widely accepted and understood in formal writing.

Is "defines to be" grammatically incorrect?

While not strictly incorrect, "defines to be" is less common than "is defined as" and may sound slightly awkward to some readers. It is generally acceptable but not preferred.

How can I use "defines to be" in a sentence?

You can use it when you are actively establishing a definition, such as: "Then one defines to be the number (provided it exists) with the property that given any, there is a neighborhood of such that (2.2).". However, consider using "is defined as" for better clarity.

What is the difference between "defines to be" and "is defined as"?

"Defines to be" implies an active, present action of defining, whereas "is defined as" indicates a state or established definition. The latter is more widely used and accepted.