implicit definition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "implicit definition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to philosophy, linguistics, or mathematics, where a term or concept is defined by its relationship to other terms rather than through an explicit statement. Example: "In his theory, he provided an implicit definition of the concept, allowing readers to infer its meaning through context."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

What the complaints share is an implicit definition of leadership based on stereotypically male qualities.

The Washington Post

This paper proposes a new implicit definition of the fractional Laplacian.

Journal of Computational Physics

This novel concept uses an implicit definition of a superstructure and essentially optimizes on the transfers between different equipment units.

Computer Aided Chemical Engineering

One thing that the angry response to the trade revealed is that the implicit definition of "indefinite," in many quarters, was "forever".

The New Yorker

This novel concept uses an implicit definition of a superstructure and essentially optimizes on the transfers between different equipment units in a design.

Computers & Chemical Engineering

The idea of implicit definition is not in conflict, then, with the traditional account.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

Theories expressed within this logical framework provide implicit definitions of concepts.

Artificial Intelligence

4. See, however, the discussion of implicit definitions below.

SEP

This question must be answered positively if implicit definitions are to serve their philosophical function.

SEP

Thus implicit definitions are structural definitions, and their constituent terms are structurally defined (Schlick 2009, Sec. 7).

SEP

The interpretation of the logical constants provides the scaffolding, so to speak, for making sense of implicit definitions.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "implicit definition", ensure the context provides sufficient clues for the reader to accurately infer the intended meaning. Avoid ambiguity by providing clear relationships between the defined term and other concepts.

Common error

Don't assume readers will automatically grasp the "implicit definition". Providing too little contextual information can lead to misinterpretation. Always consider the reader's background knowledge and provide necessary cues.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "implicit definition" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a subject or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it correctly describes a method of defining terms indirectly.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

60%

Encyclopedias

25%

News & Media

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "implicit definition" refers to a method of defining a term indirectly through its relationships and usage within a system or context. Ludwig AI validates that this term is grammatically correct and appropriate for use. While its usage is uncommon, it appears most frequently in scientific, encyclopedia, and news & media contexts. To ensure clarity, it's crucial to provide adequate context when using this phrase, avoiding potential misinterpretations. Related phrases such as "implied definition" or "tacit definition" can serve as alternatives, depending on the specific nuance you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

implied definition

Changes the adjective from 'implicit' to 'implied', emphasizing the indirect nature of the definition.

tacit definition

Replaces 'implicit' with 'tacit', highlighting the unspoken or unexpressed aspect of the definition.

unstated definition

Uses 'unstated' instead of 'implicit', focusing on the fact that the definition is not explicitly declared.

understood definition

Emphasizes the comprehension aspect of the definition, suggesting it's grasped without being directly stated.

inferred definition

Highlights that the definition is derived or concluded from evidence and reasoning.

definition by implication

Rephrases the term to focus on the act of defining through implication rather than direct statement.

indirect definition

Replaces 'implicit' with 'indirect', stressing that the definition is communicated in a roundabout way.

contextual definition

Highlights the reliance on context to understand the meaning, rather than a formal declaration.

presumed definition

Uses 'presumed' to suggest the definition is assumed to be true or understood without proof.

suggested definition

Indicates that the definition is hinted at or proposed subtly, rather than explicitly laid out.

FAQs

How can I use "implicit definition" in a sentence?

You can use "implicit definition" to describe how a term's meaning is understood through its relationship with other terms in a theory or system. For example, "The theory provides an "implicit definition" of consciousness through its effects on behavior".

What's the difference between "implicit definition" and "explicit definition"?

An "implicit definition" defines a term through its usage and relationships within a system, while an "explicit definition" directly states the meaning of the term.

Are there situations where an "implicit definition" is preferable to an "explicit definition"?

Yes, especially when providing an "explicit definition" is difficult or impractical. For example, when defining fundamental concepts in physics or mathematics, an "implicit definition" might be more suitable.

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "implicit definition"?

You can use alternatives like "implied definition", "tacit definition", or "unstated definition" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.