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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
defining on
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "defining on" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It is not a standard expression and may confuse readers, as "defining" typically requires a direct object or context to clarify what is being defined. Example: "The concept of freedom is defining on the principles of democracy."
⚠ May contain grammatical issues
Science
News & Media
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
6 human-written examples
People old and young can be be bold and defining on the Internet, underwritten by the emotional support of peers everywhere.
News & Media
Finally, let us recall the concept of generalized Lipschitz mapping defining on the cone metric spaces over Banach algebras, which is introduced in [15].
By defining on first principles the 'web of metals' and the 'design wheel', the complex relationship between the 'resource and design cycle' can be captured by computer-aided design (CAD) tools.
Science
We show that this transform, applied to appropriate distributions on K, gives all classical theta functions, and that, by defining on this space of theta functions an inner product related to the K-averaged heat kernel, the unitarity of the CST transform is still preserved.
The enclosed volume is calculated by first defining on each plane a two-dimensional mask corresponding to the outline of the EGFP-CAAX fluorescence signal, followed by integration along the z-axis of all enclosed areas.
Science
Further investigations on how and which texture parameters are associated with tumor biology may help defining on the relationship between texture heterogeneity and response to NAC.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
54 human-written examples
(i) Let us define on by (2.6) .
Let us define on by (2.6).
Set, and define on as follows: (4.3).
For, let the function be defined on as follows: (2.11).
(A lunk is defined, on a poster, as "one who grunts, drops weights, or judges").
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Avoid using "defining on" in formal writing. Opt for clearer alternatives like "based on" or "dependent on" to ensure your meaning is easily understood.
Common error
A common error is using "on" after "defining" when it requires a direct object or a different preposition. Ensure you are clearly stating what is being defined and use appropriate prepositions such as "defining X as Y" or "defining characteristics of X."
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
1.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "defining on" functions as a prepositional phrase, attempting to link a definition to a concept or object. However, its usage is grammatically questionable. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is not correct, suggesting the need for alternative phrasing. The examples provided show attempts to use it in various contexts, but more standard constructions would improve clarity.
Frequent in
Science
52%
News & Media
36%
Encyclopedias
6%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Reference
0%
Social Media
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "defining on" is grammatically incorrect and not considered standard English. As indicated by Ludwig AI, this phrase lacks clarity and is best avoided in favor of more precise and widely accepted alternatives such as "based on", "dependent on", or restructuring your sentence for better clarity. Although examples exist, they are infrequent and scattered across various sources. Sticking to established grammatical norms ensures your writing remains clear, professional, and easily understood.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
based on
Replaces "defining on" with a more common preposition indicating foundation or origin.
dependent on
Indicates reliance or conditionality, differing from the original's sense of direct definition.
predicated on
Suggests a logical basis or foundation, offering a more formal tone.
centered around
Implies that something is the main focus, differing slightly from a strict definition.
drawing from
Indicates that something is sourced or derived from a particular basis.
determined by
Highlights the cause-and-effect relationship, suggesting that something is decided by a specific factor.
contingent on
Emphasizes conditionality, indicating that the definition relies on a specific condition.
grounded in
Indicates a firm basis or origin, suggesting a deep connection.
built upon
Suggests that something is developed or expanded from an existing foundation.
founded on
Replaces the original phrase to indicate something established on a base.
FAQs
What is a grammatically correct alternative to "defining on"?
More appropriate alternatives include "based on", "dependent on", or rephrasing the sentence to use "defining X as Y".
Is "defining on" considered standard English?
No, "defining on" is not considered standard English. It's better to use clearer and more accepted alternatives for improved clarity and grammatical correctness.
When is it appropriate to use "defining on"?
It is generally not appropriate to use "defining on" in formal or academic writing. While some instances may appear in informal contexts, it is advisable to use more standard alternatives like "based on" or "defined by".
How can I avoid using "defining on" in my writing?
Review your sentences and replace "defining on" with more precise phrases that accurately convey your intended meaning. Options include "established on", "predicated on", or restructuring the sentence to use a direct object with "defining".
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
1.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested