defining line

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defining line" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a clear distinction or boundary between two concepts, ideas, or categories. Example: "The defining line between right and wrong can sometimes be blurred in complex situations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

Taxes have become the defining line in New York City, as well.

The New York Times

Caitlin Carter (Cassie, who delivers the defining line, "a dancer dances," and does the one solo, a flashy dance) scores highest in the acting department.

The New York Times

It's fine advice and it also draws a firm, defining line between broadcasting on the wireless and the television, where the reverse is true.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In just a year, reality programming transformed television, to a point where it now provides the defining line between success and lack of it.

The New York Times

But over the last five years, climate change has turned into a big floating iceberg of an issue for presidential politics – a defining line between Republicans and Democrats.

The Guardian - Opinion

Jerry adds: "I know – and the defining line of his very varied career will be, 'Billy, have you ever seen a grown man naked?'" He laughs.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Figure 2 Schematic illustration of TAHL process for defining line-defects within a periodic structure.

Nanoscale Research Letters

The ensemble cast, which also includes Chazz Palminteri, Robin Wright Penn and Meg Ryan, is outstanding, but Ms. Ryan still can't read the character-defining line "I am a drug person" the way Judith Ivey did on Broadway -- Thursday at 8 and 11 30 p.m. and Saturday at 5 30 p.m. on FX.

The New York Times

It was like you were either a Beatles or a Stones fan - it was a clearly defined line".

The Guardian - Music

They've explored right up to, and sometimes over, the difficult-to-define line that differentiates violence from non-violence.

The Guardian - Opinion

To further this unification of relationships, the defined line between humans and other robots must become somewhat indistinguishable.

Robotics and Autonomous Systems

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "defining line" to clearly indicate a critical distinction or boundary when explaining complex concepts. Ensure the context is clear so the reader understands what is being separated or distinguished.

Common error

Avoid using "defining line" in contexts where a simpler term like "difference" or "distinction" would suffice. "Defining line" is most effective when emphasizing a significant and impactful separation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defining line" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject complement or an object, identifying a boundary or distinction that clarifies or characterizes something. Ludwig examples show it used to delineate differences in politics, art, and personal characteristics.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

22%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "defining line" is a commonly used noun phrase that signifies a crucial distinction or boundary. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. Analysis of example sentences reveals that it frequently appears in News & Media and Science contexts, indicating a neutral to slightly formal register. When using this phrase, ensure clarity in the context to effectively highlight the separation or distinction being made. Alternatives such as "demarcation line" or "critical distinction" can be considered depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

demarcation line

This phrase emphasizes the establishment of a boundary or limit.

dividing line

Indicates a separation or boundary between two things.

determinant line

Focuses on the line that determines or influences an outcome.

pivotal line

Highlights the importance of the line as a turning point.

critical distinction

Emphasizes the importance of the difference or separation.

crucial difference

Highlights that there is a major important difference

essential boundary

Highlights the fundamental nature of the limit or border.

key differentiator

Focuses on what sets something apart from others.

distinctive feature

Highlights a characteristic that distinguishes something.

benchmark characteristic

Focuses on what represents the standard or point of reference.

FAQs

How to use "defining line" in a sentence?

Use "defining line" to indicate a clear distinction between two things. For example, "The "defining line" between success and failure is often perseverance."

What can I say instead of "defining line"?

You can use alternatives like "demarcation line", "critical distinction", or "dividing line" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "defining line" or "defined line"?

"Defining line" suggests the act of distinguishing, while "defined line" suggests that the distinction has already been made. The choice depends on the intended meaning.

What's the difference between "defining line" and "boundary"?

"Defining line" often implies a conceptual separation, while "boundary" typically refers to a physical or legal limit. However, they can sometimes be used interchangeably.