historically defined

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "historically defined" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing concepts, terms, or categories that have been established or understood based on historical context or events. Example: "The term 'nation-state' is historically defined by the emergence of modern political boundaries and governance structures."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

The Conservatives, by way of contrast, are not historically defined by any artificial schism.

The Guardian - Opinion

The court said Mr. Reagan's proclamation "thus alters the three-mile boundary that had historically defined the territorial sea".

The New York Times

And she strives to edit a magazine that reflects all that has historically defined the Russian style.

The New York Times

Hell's Kitchen, historically defined as stretching from Eighth Avenue to the Hudson River and roughly from 34th to 59th Streets, has been undergoing rapid gentrification in recent years.

The New York Times

When using lethal force within a field of combat, the military's Rules of Engagement have historically defined two kinds of acceptable targets.

The New Yorker

Smallpox vaccine efficacy was historically defined by the appearance of a lesion or "take" at the vaccine site, which leaves behind a characteristic scar.

Vaccine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

The rivalry historically defines these clubs.

The Guardian - Sport

However, bioenergeticists historically define potentials with respect to the mitochondrial matrix, so both potentials have positive signs.

Biochemical Journal

Countries have always historically been defined primarily by their inhabitants.

The New York Times

The Texas and Oklahoma athletic departments have historically been defined largely by their rivalries on the field.

The New York Times - Sports

But the purists say this doesn't count because market corrections have historically been defined by the closing values of the S.& P. 500 and other stock indexes.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "historically defined", ensure you provide sufficient context to clarify the historical period or events that shaped the definition. This adds clarity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid assuming that a "historically defined" concept remains static. Acknowledge that definitions can evolve over time due to new information, changing societal values, or advancements in understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "historically defined" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It indicates that the noun's definition or characteristics are rooted in or determined by historical context. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage and grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

34%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "historically defined" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to indicate that something's meaning or characteristics are rooted in historical context. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage and acceptability. It's commonly found in news, science, and academic writing. When using this phrase, ensure you provide enough context about the historical period or events that shaped the definition and acknowledge that definitions can evolve. Alternatives such as "traditionally defined" or "previously established" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

traditionally defined

Replaces "historically" with "traditionally", focusing on established customs or practices rather than broader historical developments.

previously established

Emphasizes the past establishment of a definition, without explicitly mentioning "history".

formerly designated

Focuses on the past designation or naming of something, often used in technical or formal contexts.

as historically understood

Shifts the focus to the understanding of something over time, rather than the act of defining.

by historical convention

Highlights that a definition is based on accepted historical practice or agreement.

historically recognized

Emphasizes the recognition of something over time, implying a widespread acceptance of its definition.

with historical precedent

Highlights the existence of historical examples that support a particular definition or understanding.

in historical terms

Indicates that something is being described or understood from a historical perspective, implicitly involving a definition.

according to historical usage

Focuses on how something has been defined through its use in historical texts or contexts.

rooted in historical context

Emphasizes that something's definition is based in, and derived from historical events and understanding.

FAQs

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

You can use "historically defined" to describe how something's meaning or boundaries were established based on past events or understandings. For example, "The boundaries of the region are "historically defined" by treaties and natural landmarks".

What is a good alternative to "historically defined"?

Alternatives include "traditionally defined", "previously established", or "as historically understood". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "historically defined" in formal writing?

Yes, "historically defined" is suitable for formal writing, especially in academic, scientific, or professional contexts where historical accuracy and precision are important.

What does it mean for something to be "historically defined"?

It means that its current meaning, characteristics, or boundaries have been shaped and established by events, practices, or understandings from the past. The definition is not arbitrary but rooted in historical context.