defines when

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defines when" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to specify the conditions or circumstances under which something occurs or is applicable. Example: "The policy document defines when employees are eligible for remote work."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

But who defines when he goes?

The New York Times - Arts

Paragraph (1) defines when a transfer is perfected.

Cornell University

It defines when and how the contractor will be paid for completed work.

The New York Times

Section 2a c) is antecedent to §2c, since §2a(c) defines when at-large elections are appropriate.

Cornell University

Consider the international accounting rule that governs consolidation, which defines when a company should include its investments in its accounts.

The Economist

This defines when vapour risk is insignificant, or conversely when there is potential for vapour to contact the sub-slab of a building.

Journal of Contaminant Hydrology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Research can help define when and how we cooperate.

MIT Technology Review

4.6.3 Defining When the Process IS Ready for Startup.

Stanford University

We define when the new rule preserves stochastic dominance.

Structural Safety

How would you define when the backstop is triggered?

The Economist

Tax treaties between countries define when multinational corporations can, and can't, be taxed.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "defines when", ensure that the context clearly specifies what criteria or conditions are being used to determine the timing of an event.

Common error

Avoid using "defines when" without clearly specifying the defining criteria; ensure the conditions are explicit and measurable to prevent ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defines when" functions as a connector, establishing a relationship between a subject and the conditions or timing that determine its occurrence. Ludwig AI indicates its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

31%

News & Media

31%

Academia

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "defines when" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to specify the conditions or criteria that determine the timing of an event. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable across various contexts, from academic and scientific writing to news media and formal business communication. Analysis shows that it functions primarily to establish conditions and specify criteria, maintaining a generally neutral register. While "defines when" is versatile, clarity is crucial: ensure that the defining criteria are explicit to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "determines the timing of" or "specifies the conditions under which" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

determines the timing of

Focuses on specifying the exact moment something happens.

specifies the conditions under which

Highlights the circumstances that must be met.

establishes the criteria for

Emphasizes creating a standard for deciding a point in time.

indicates the moment

Directly points to a specific point in time.

sets the limit for

Focuses on the upper or lower bound of the time frame.

lays out the schedule for

Implies a more detailed and structured plan of timing.

stipulates the period for

Similar to 'specifies' but with a formal nuance.

pinpoints the instant of

Implies higher precision in time.

identifies the point at which

Highlights a specific condition met at a time.

marks the occasion when

Highlights a specific occasion when something takes place.

FAQs

How can I use "defines when" in a sentence?

Use "defines when" to specify the conditions or criteria under which something occurs. For example, "The contract "defines when" payment is due."

What are some alternatives to "defines when"?

Alternatives include "specifies the timing of", "determines the conditions under which", or "establishes the criteria for". Consider the context to select the most appropriate substitute.

Is it correct to say "defines when" or should I use a different phrase?

The phrase "defines when" is grammatically correct and commonly used. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and provides numerous examples of its usage.

What's the difference between "defines when" and "indicates when"?

"Defines when" implies setting clear, measurable criteria, while "indicates when" simply points to a time without necessarily setting explicit rules. If the goal is to set the law, use "defines when", if the goal is to suggest something about time, use "indicates when".