it cannot be defined

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it cannot be defined" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing concepts, ideas, or terms that are ambiguous or lack a clear definition. Example: "The concept of love is complex and subjective; it cannot be defined in a single sentence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

This is one of the most fascinating things about wine: It cannot be defined by ratings.

The New York Times - Food

In particular, it cannot be defined by a declared desire to speak in the name of the people – all politicians seek to do that.

The Guardian - Opinion

It cannot be defined by any one silhouette or colour palette – it bent toward a generous trouser shape, and toward colours like brick red and cream and olive – but it was, above all, an emotional tone.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

my answer is that it cannot be defined, and that is all I have to say about it.

BBC

This value is complex and can only emotionally be grasped but it cannot be defined, nor even propositionally characterized.

SEP

Besides, in Theorem 3.1, r A must be defined by R i ( A ˆ ), but it cannot be defined by R i ( A ) directly.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

This microenvironment provides an ideal condition for tumor maintenance; however, it does not have the structural organization and stability generally associated with stem cell niches, and it also cannot be defined by a single location [ 78].

BioMed Research International

As the great theoretician Walter Benjamin said, art has an almost mystical aura about it that cannot be defined.

Los Angeles Times

The former are rather intelligible particulars, as it were, and cannot be defined (Steel 2004), while the latter are strictly speaking instantiated or individualised universals that are not shared by many particulars (see Helmig 2008, cf. above 3.1 2).

SEP

Existence's magnitude, its supernovas and bumblebees, cannot be defined by the words that delineate it.

University of Chicago

Broad does not think it is possible to give a strict definition of phrases such as "S prehends x as red" or the equivalent phrase "x sensibly presents itself to S as red".[3] What one can do is to contrast the notion of prehension with other notions: "The meaning of these phrases cannot be defined, it can only be exemplified.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it cannot be defined", ensure that the context clearly indicates what "it" refers to. Provide enough surrounding information so the reader understands the subject that lacks a definition.

Common error

Avoid using "it cannot be defined" as a substitute for deeper analysis. If something is difficult to define, try to explain why, rather than simply stating its indefinability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it cannot be defined" functions as a declarative statement expressing the impossibility or extreme difficulty of providing a definitive explanation or categorization for a particular subject. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Academia

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it cannot be defined" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to indicate the lack of a clear or universally accepted definition for something. As Ludwig AI suggests, it’s important to use the phrase judiciously, ensuring the context provides sufficient clarity. Alternatives like "it is indefinable" or "it defies definition" can offer nuanced alternatives. While often found in neutral contexts like news and media, it's applicable across various fields, including science and academia, though overuse should be avoided in favor of more descriptive analysis when possible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it defies definition

Emphasizes the impossibility of capturing its essence with a definition.

it is indefinable

Directly states the lack of a possible definition.

it lacks a clear definition

Highlights the absence of a well-established definition.

it is not easily defined

Suggests difficulty in defining it, though not necessarily impossibility.

it is hard to define

Similar to 'not easily defined', indicating difficulty.

it resists definition

Implies an active opposition to being defined.

it eludes precise definition

Indicates that a precise definition is unattainable.

it escapes categorization

Focuses on the inability to place it within specific categories.

it transcends definition

Suggests that it's beyond the limitations of a definition.

its meaning is subjective

Highlights that the meaning depends on individual interpretation.

FAQs

How can I use "it cannot be defined" in a sentence?

Use "it cannot be defined" when referring to something abstract, complex, or subjective. For example: "The concept of beauty "it cannot be defined" universally, as it varies from culture to culture".

What are some alternatives to "it cannot be defined"?

You can use alternatives like "it is indefinable", "it defies definition", or "it lacks a clear definition" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever incorrect to say "it cannot be defined"?

While grammatically correct, saying ""it cannot be defined"" might be an oversimplification. If a concept is merely complex or multifaceted, explore its various aspects instead of dismissing it as indefinable. Consider if "it is difficult to define" is a better fit.

What does it mean when something "cannot be defined"?

When something ""it cannot be defined"", it suggests that the subject is either too abstract, subjective, or complex to be captured by a single, universally accepted definition. It implies inherent ambiguity or a multiplicity of valid interpretations.