intended to define

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intended to define" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when explaining the purpose or aim of a term, concept, or statement in a formal or academic context. Example: "The following section is intended to define the key terms used throughout this research paper."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

IN Boston next week the Democratic Party will unveil a montage of film clips and character witnesses intended to define John Kerry.

The New York Times

"Third wave" was indeed intended to define a new generation – it was coined by Rebecca Walker, Alice Walker's daughter – in 1992.

The Guardian - Opinion

The moves, intended to define Mr. Kerry's candidacy, amount to a re-emergence of sorts by a candidate who largely yielded the spotlight to Mr. Bush after effectively winning the Democratic nomination in early March.

The New York Times

In 1857, in Dred Scott v. Sandford, the Supreme Court ruled that the framers had intended to define "the negro race" not as people but as property, to be "bought and sold and treated as an ordinary article of merchandise".

The New Yorker

Some Republicans said they were concerned that the Democrats would soon unify around Mr. Obama, and that it was only a matter of weeks before Mr. Obama began unloading a huge round of advertising intended to define Mr. McCain.

The New York Times

As another commentator put it, the Church had explained its raison d'être in the schema "De Ecclesia," and Schema 13 was intended to define its agir, or mode of action.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

He also revealed that defence of civil liberties, more social housing, climate change and continued UK membership of the European Union will be the primary issues on which he first intends to define his leadership.

The Guardian

The Tories intend to define his views against those of other senior Labour figures in an attempt to highlight the all too real divisions within the party that will come under intense scrutiny should he win.

Independent

They intend to define him early on in the wider public mind as a dangerous ideological zealot - highlighting his opposition to Britain's nuclear deterrent his support for Hezbollah and past relationship with the IRA.

Independent

In concluding that it did, the court overturned a ruling by the federal appeals court in California and held that Congress did not intend to define the universe of possible defenses when it included the "threat to others" language in the statute.

The New York Times

As a result, we intend to define available connectivity within a given period.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "intended to define", ensure that the context clearly specifies what is being defined and the purpose behind the definition. Be precise in your language to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "intended to define" with vague or overly broad subjects. Instead of saying "This aims to define progress", specify "This research is intended to define the key metrics for measuring progress in renewable energy adoption."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intended to define" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose. It modifies a preceding noun or clause, indicating the reason or objective behind an action or statement. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "intended to define" serves to clarify the purpose behind an action, statement, or concept, emphasizing the goal of establishing a clear and precise definition. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage across diverse contexts, including science, news, and encyclopedic entries. The phrase is grammatically correct and frequently employed in formal and scientific writing. To enhance clarity, avoid overly broad statements and specify the subject being defined. Consider related phrases like "meant to define" or "designed to define" to suit specific nuances. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, writers can effectively use "intended to define" to articulate objectives and ensure clarity in their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

meant to define

This alternative replaces "intended" with "meant", offering a more casual tone while retaining the original meaning.

designed to define

This alternative uses "designed" instead of "intended", emphasizing a deliberate and planned purpose.

aimed to define

This alternative utilizes "aimed", highlighting the objective or goal of the action.

sought to define

Using "sought" suggests a more active and deliberate effort to define something.

purposed to define

This alternative employs "purposed", emphasizing the specific intention or reason behind the definition.

set out to define

This phrase implies a proactive commencement with the goal of defining.

with the intention of defining

This is a more verbose alternative that spells out the intention more explicitly.

in order to define

This alternative utilizes the phrase "in order to", emphasizing the purpose or reason for defining.

so as to define

Similar to "in order to define", this option emphasizes the purpose.

for the purpose of defining

This is a formal alternative that explicitly states the purpose of defining.

FAQs

How can I use "intended to define" in a sentence?

You can use "intended to define" to clarify the purpose of a statement or action, like "The new regulations are "designed to define" the boundaries of acceptable conduct".

What's a good alternative to "intended to define"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "meant to define", "aimed to define", or "in order to define". Choose the alternative that best fits the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "intended to define" or "intends to define"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "intended to define" when referring to something in the past or a general intention. Use "intends to define" when the subject is singular and in the present tense.

What is the difference between "intended to define" and "designed to define"?

"Intended to define" suggests a purpose or goal, while "designed to define" implies a more deliberate and structured approach. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the purpose or the method.