definition is imprecise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "definition is imprecise" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the clarity or accuracy of a definition in a specific context, such as academic writing or critical analysis. Example: "The definition is imprecise, leading to confusion among readers about the intended meaning of the term."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

3 However, this definition is imprecise and lacks definitive electrolyte threshold values to confidently diagnose the refeeding syndrome.

BMJ Open

Non-differential misclassification, however, can still occur if the exposure definition is imprecise or if drug use falls outside the biologically plausible risk window, as can be seen in Fig.  2.

European Journal of Epidemiology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Also the spike definitions are imprecise and vary among neurophysiologists who often do not mark the same events as spikes.

Brain Informatics

If an operational definition of measure is imprecise, ambiguous or poorly documented, probably different people will understand the measure in different ways.

Journal of the Brazilian Computer Society

However, its definition is too imprecise by far.

Dairy Science and Technology

Even the very same definition of these parameters is imprecise and in a way contradictory.

Soil Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering

Noting that the definition of proprietary trading is imprecise, Wall Street says that the rule threatens to spill into legitimate practices like market-making and hedging.

The New York Times

[ 1] This definition of 'global', however, is imprecise, since it is unclear where the benchmark is in quantitative terms for the descriptor 'many countries'.

Globalization and Health

The exact definition of the family is imprecise because of the allocation of taxa to varied groups and poor descriptions of many species.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

The major problem of a management algorithm lies in the definition of haemodynamic instability, which is imprecise and variable.

Annals of Intensive Care

Epidemiological incidence data for HS is imprecise because of varying definitions of heat-related death and under-diagnosis [ 35].

Critical Care

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "definition is imprecise", ensure that you provide specific examples or reasons why the definition lacks clarity. This will strengthen your argument and make it more convincing.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that "definition is imprecise" without providing supporting evidence or explanation. This can weaken your argument and leave the reader unconvinced. Always elaborate on the specific aspects that make the definition imprecise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definition is imprecise" functions as a statement expressing a judgment about the quality of a definition. It indicates that the definition lacks clarity or exactness. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

55%

News & Media

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "definition is imprecise" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that critiques the clarity and exactness of a definition. Ludwig AI’s analysis highlights its suitability for analytical and argumentative contexts across various domains. It is particularly common in scientific discussions, news articles, and encyclopedic entries. To strengthen your writing, always provide specific examples when using this phrase to support your assertion. Common errors include stating the phrase without justification. Consider alternatives like "definition lacks clarity" or "definition is vague" for variety. The phrase is used across various authoritative sources and academic disciplines.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

definition lacks clarity

This alternative focuses on the absence of clarity, rather than the presence of imprecision.

definition suffers from a lack of precision

This is a more formal way of saying that the definition isn't precise.

definition is vague

This alternative uses a more general term, "vague", to express the lack of specificity.

definition is ill-defined

This alternative highlights the poor construction or formulation of the definition.

definition is not well-defined

Similar to "ill-defined", this emphasizes the lack of proper definition.

definition is ambiguous

This alternative suggests that the definition can be interpreted in multiple ways.

definition is indefinite

This implies that the boundaries or limits of the definition are not clearly established.

definition is loosely defined

This suggests a more relaxed or flexible definition, potentially lacking rigor.

definition requires further refinement

This alternative indicates that the definition needs more work to become precise.

definition is open to interpretation

Highlights that the definition allows for multiple understandings.

FAQs

How can I use "definition is imprecise" in a sentence?

You can use "definition is imprecise" to point out a lack of clarity or accuracy. For instance, "The "definition of terrorism" is imprecise, leading to varied interpretations across different countries".

What are some alternatives to "definition is imprecise"?

Alternatives include phrases like "definition lacks clarity", "definition is vague", or "definition is ill-defined", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "definition is imprecise" or "definition lacks precision"?

Both "definition is imprecise" and "definition lacks precision" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice depends on your preferred writing style. "Lacks precision" is often perceived as slightly more formal.

What does it mean when a definition is considered imprecise?

When a definition is considered imprecise, it means that it lacks specific details, clear boundaries, or definitive criteria, making it open to multiple interpretations or difficult to apply consistently. It suggests the "definition requires further refinement".