defining for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defining for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when explaining or clarifying the purpose or meaning of something for a specific audience or context. Example: "The author is defining for the readers the key concepts that will be explored in the book."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"It's been the defining moment of this campaign so far – and defining for me in an unhelpful way," he says.

The Guardian

"That moment was defining for him.

The New York Times - Sports

These qualities became defining for her as the show grew, and was an intentional move in order for her to create the type of show she wanted.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Compared to those who defiantly confronted soldiers and police, I was timid and afraid, yet the deed was defining for me.

The New Yorker

It needs some kind of settlement, some form of treaty defining – for a while – what it shall do and where it shall go.

The Guardian

"Nobody else really knows about it except for us Danes, but it was very defining for our character", says DR's executive director, Morten Hesseldahl.

Independent

The next few days will be defining for Adam Yates as the 23-year-old from Bury goes into the toughest phase of the Tour de France holding third place overall behind Chris Froome in the yellow jersey.

The Guardian - Sport

If you meet a casting director, it's rare that they will be looking for someone like you for a role that's going to be really defining for your career.

The Guardian

Victory in Falluja has given Iraqi forces a sense of confidence ahead of a battle that will likely prove defining for both Isis and Iraq – the push to recapture the country's second city, Mosul.

The Guardian

Her saga, she said, "opened some windows into other parts of life, about how much the embodiment of erotic desire is really defining for women, and how much one can drop out of life when there is no erotic potential".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Maybe it had something to do with fact that during the recording of their genre-defining For Those Who Fear Tomorrow album, downstairs from Nine Inch Nails' studio in Clevo, the band were consuming a sheet of acid, weekly, bought from Filter's singer Richard Patrick.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "defining for", ensure that the relationship between the definition and the subject is explicit. Avoid ambiguity by clearly stating what is being defined and for whom or what it is relevant.

Common error

Avoid using "defining for" excessively in formal academic writing. While grammatically correct, it can sometimes sound less sophisticated than alternatives like "defining with respect to" or "defining in relation to".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defining for" functions as a prepositional phrase specifying the entity or context for which a definition is relevant. It clarifies who or what the definition applies to, enhancing precision. As per Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science & Research

5%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "defining for" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that serves to clarify the relevance and scope of a definition. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage spans across various contexts, from News & Media to Science. While its register is generally neutral, more formal alternatives might be preferred in academic writing. Usage tips include ensuring clarity and explicitness when employing this phrase, while avoiding overuse in highly formal settings. Related phrases encompass terms like "defining with respect to" or "clarifying for", each offering a subtle shift in emphasis. With its widespread applicability and clear communicative purpose, "defining for" remains a valuable tool for precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

defining in relation to

Highlights the connection between the definition and a related concept.

defining with respect to

Specifies a particular aspect or viewpoint when defining.

defining on behalf of

Focuses on acting as a defining entity for another party.

determining for

Focuses on the act of establishing or deciding something.

defining concerning

Indicates defining something in relation to a specific topic or subject.

clarifying for

Emphasizes making something easier to understand.

shaping for

Implies influencing the development or character of something.

specifying for

Highlights providing detailed and exact information.

establishing for

Indicates creating or founding something with a specific purpose.

setting out for

Emphasizes establishing a clear direction or purpose.

FAQs

How can I use "defining for" in a sentence?

Use "defining for" to specify the relevance of a definition to a particular subject or audience. For example, "This principle is "defining for" understanding the economic model".

What are some alternatives to "defining for"?

Alternatives include "defining with respect to", "clarifying for", or "specifying for", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to use "defining for" or "defining with respect to"?

"Defining with respect to" is often perceived as more formal and precise, suitable for academic or technical contexts. "Defining for" is generally acceptable and can be used in broader contexts where formality is less critical.

What does "defining for" imply in the context of character development?

In the context of character development, "defining for" suggests a moment, trait, or event that significantly shapes or determines a character's identity, behavior, or future. It highlights what makes that aspect particularly crucial for understanding the character.