frequently defined

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "frequently defined" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing terms or concepts that are often explained or described in various contexts. Example: "The term 'sustainability' is frequently defined in environmental studies as the ability to meet present needs without compromising future generations."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

The New York Times has shared the fifty most frequently defined words on their Web site.

The New Yorker

A sense-datum is thus frequently defined as an object of direct perception.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Inventors defy definition; as a result, they are frequently defined by what they are not.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Man has to recognize that sinful actions are frequently defined not by their objective reality but by the subjective attitude of the sinner.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For statistical and public administrative purposes, however, old age is frequently defined as 60 or 65 years of age or older.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This position raises the question of who defines an act as deviant and highlights that deviance is frequently defined in relative (norm-violating) rather than absolute (lawbreaking) terms.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

Creationist sources frequently define evolution according to a colloquial, rather than scientific, meaning.

Wikipedia

Additionally, in Africa individuals frequently define themselves with regards to a community, rather than as a lone individual [ 60].

BMC Medical Ethics

In patients where surgical resection is incomplete, a CT scan frequently defines the size and location of residual tumour.

Cancer Imaging

The secretome of a fungus is the set of secreted proteins that frequently defines and facilitates the host infection process [ 40].

BMC Genomics

What may constitute a challenge to the effective implementation of programs aimed at controlling mastitis is the fact that women, supported by the opinion of local guérisseurs, frequently define their breast problems as the product of sorcery or of a supernatural source.

BMC Public Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "commonly understood" or "often described" to vary your writing and avoid repetition.

Common error

Avoid using "frequently defined" without specifying the field or context. For example, instead of saying "intelligence is frequently defined as...", specify "In psychology, intelligence is frequently defined as...".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "frequently defined" acts as a verbal phrase used to introduce or refer to a definition that is commonly used or presented. It functions to set the stage for explaining how a concept or term is understood, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

21%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "frequently defined" is a versatile tool for introducing common understandings of terms and concepts across diverse fields. As Ludwig confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used, signaling that the following definition is neither novel nor unique, but well-established. While suitable for various contexts, specifying the relevant domain enhances clarity. Alternatives like "commonly understood" or "often described" can add nuance and prevent repetition. Remember to avoid overgeneralization by providing sufficient context, ensuring your writing remains precise and informative. Overall, this phrase proves to be a valuable asset in effectively communicating established definitions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

commonly referred to as

Highlights the common name or label used in conjunction with a definition.

often described as

Focuses on the descriptive aspect of defining something, rather than a strict definition.

frequently labeled as

Highlights how something is regularly designated or named.

commonly understood as

Replaces "frequently defined" with a focus on common understanding rather than formal definition.

typically characterized as

Emphasizes the typical or representative features used in defining something.

generally considered to be

Highlights the widespread acceptance or belief surrounding a particular definition.

widely recognized as

Stresses the broad recognition or acceptance of a particular definition.

usually interpreted as

Highlights the act of interpreting or understanding something in a specific way.

conventionally understood as

Indicates that the definition is based on established conventions or norms.

regularly specified as

Focuses on the routine or systematic specification of a definition.

FAQs

How can I use "frequently defined" in a sentence?

You can use "frequently defined" to introduce a common or recurring definition of a term. For example, "In the medical field, 'hypertension' is "frequently defined" as blood pressure consistently above 140/90 mmHg".

What are some alternatives to "frequently defined"?

Alternatives include "commonly understood", "often described", or "generally considered". Depending on the context, phrases like "typically characterized as" or "widely recognized as" might also be suitable.

Is it better to use "frequently defined" or "commonly defined"?

Both "frequently defined" and "commonly defined" are correct and usable. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. "Frequently defined" emphasizes the recurring nature of the definition, while "commonly defined" highlights its widespread acceptance.

How can I make my use of "frequently defined" more specific?

Provide context by specifying the field or domain where the definition is common. For example, instead of just saying "democracy is "frequently defined" as...", say "In political science, democracy is "frequently defined" as...".