definition of the term

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "definition of the term" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to clarify or explain the meaning of a specific word or phrase. Example: "In this paper, we will provide a clear definition of the term 'sustainability' to ensure a common understanding among readers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What's wrong is his definition of the term.

The Guardian - Opinion

There is no official or legal definition of the term.

The Guardian

She is a hippy by any definition of the term.

The Guardian - Music

You're torturing him, by any sane definition of the term.

The New York Times

For me there is not a clear definition of the term.

The Guardian - Sport

Using the F.B.I.'s definition of the term, Critter is a domestic terrorist.

The New York Times - Magazine

Reporters there have never had a clear picture of the military definition of the term.

The New York Times

But it does not include political freedom by any definition of the term.

The New Yorker

Has Rupert Murdoch given the world a new definition of the term "double irony"?

The Guardian

In truth, there is no universally accepted definition of the term.

The New York Times

He has found his bliss, and he has a very specific definition of the term.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, provide the "definition of the term" early in your writing, especially when dealing with technical or ambiguous concepts.

Common error

Avoid making the "definition of the term" overly complex or convoluted. Aim for clarity and simplicity so that readers can easily grasp the intended meaning. Instead, focus on providing a straightforward and accessible explanation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definition of the term" serves as a noun phrase. Its primary grammatical function is to introduce or clarify the meaning of a specific word or concept. As shown by Ludwig, this phrase appears commonly in contexts where precision and understanding are crucial.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

31%

News & Media

56%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "definition of the term" is a widely used phrase to introduce or clarify the meaning of a specific word or concept. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in diverse contexts ranging from scientific literature to news articles. Its communicative purpose is to ensure clarity and establish a shared understanding between writers and their audience. When writing, ensure your definitions are concise and accurate, and avoid overcomplicating them. Consider alternatives such as "meaning of the term" or "explanation of the term" for variety. In essence, mastering the "definition of the term" enhances clarity and precision in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the term's meaning

A more concise way of asking about the meaning of the term.

meaning of the term

Focuses on the semantic content rather than the act of defining.

explanation of the term

Highlights the process of making the term understandable.

the accepted definition of the term

Implies a consensus or standard definition.

interpretation of the term

Emphasizes a particular understanding or perspective.

definition of the concept

Shifts the focus from a word to a broader idea.

understanding of the term

Highlights the comprehension aspect rather than the formal definition.

establish a definition for the term

Indicates the act of creating or setting a formal definition.

the term's denotation

Replaces "definition" with a more technical synonym.

what the term signifies

Focuses on the representative function of the term.

FAQs

How can I use "definition of the term" in a sentence?

You can use "definition of the term" to introduce the meaning of a specific word or phrase. For instance, "The following is the definition of the term 'artificial intelligence'."

What is another way to say "definition of the term"?

Alternatives include "meaning of the term", "explanation of the term", or "interpretation of the term".

Is there a universally accepted "definition of the term" for all concepts?

Not all terms have a universally accepted definition. Some terms may have multiple interpretations depending on the context or field of study. In such cases, it's important to clarify which "interpretation of the term" you are using.

What's the difference between "definition of the term" and "usage of the term"?

"Definition of the term" refers to the meaning of a word or phrase, while "usage of the term" refers to how it is typically used in language. Understanding both helps in fully grasping a concept.