does not define

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "does not define" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the limitations of a term, concept, or individual, indicating that something is not adequately characterized by a particular definition. Example: "His achievements in the field are impressive, but they do not define his entire character."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But that does not define the entire channel or industry.

Forbes

Failure does not define you".

The Guardian

It does not define "unintentional".

The New York Times

Race does not define me.

The Guardian

This does not define humanity.

Columbia University

It does not define America's strength.

The New York Times

Legislation does not define ethical behavior.

The New York Times

The law does not define "reasonable".

The New York Times

Geography does not define or limit them.

The Guardian - Books

The Industry does not define space implicitly.

Cornell University

The XML specification does not define semantics for tags.

System Architecture with XML

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "does not define" to clarify that a specific attribute or circumstance should not be considered the definitive or sole characteristic of a person, object, or situation. For example, "A single mistake "does not define" a career."

Common error

Avoid using "does not define" in contexts where a weaker term like "does not fully represent" would be more accurate. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily forceful or dismissive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "does not define" functions as a negative assertion, indicating that a particular attribute, characteristic, or event should not be considered the sole or ultimate determinant of something. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase is used to express limitations or exclusions. Examples show its use in various contexts, such as clarifying that race, marital status, or a past event doesn't define an individual.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

15%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "does not define" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that something should not be considered the sole or ultimate determinant of a person, object, or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's frequently used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the intended meaning and avoid overstating the negative implication. Consider alternatives like "doesn't fully capture" or "is not the sole determinant" for a more nuanced approach. Remember that one failure "does not define" a career; avoid letting a single attribute overshadow the bigger picture.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

doesn't fully capture

Indicates that something is not completely represented or understood.

is not the sole determinant

Emphasizes that something is not the only factor influencing a situation.

does not encapsulate

Highlights that something does not comprehensively include or express.

is not limited to

Suggests that something extends beyond a specific boundary or scope.

does not exclusively determine

Stresses that something is not the only element that decides or controls.

is not the defining characteristic

Points out that something is not the primary attribute or feature.

does not completely represent

Implies that something offers an incomplete portrayal or image.

is not the only factor

Indicates that something is one of several elements contributing to a result.

does not singularly identify

Highlights that something does not uniquely specify or recognize.

is not necessarily indicative of

Suggests that something does not always point to or signal a particular outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "does not define" in a sentence?

Use "does not define" to express that a particular attribute or event should not be considered the ultimate or sole characteristic of someone or something. For instance, "Their background "does not define" their potential."

What phrases are similar to "does not define"?

Alternatives include phrases like "doesn't fully capture", "is not the sole determinant", or "does not encapsulate", which convey a similar sense of limitation or exclusion.

When is it appropriate to use "does not define"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that a single aspect of something should not be overemphasized or seen as the complete picture. For example, "One failure "does not define" a person."

What is the difference between "does not define" and "does not specify"?

"Does not define" indicates that something is not the determining factor, while "does not specify" means something lacks explicit details or instructions.