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it defining

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it defining" is not correct in standard written English.
It may be intended to describe something that is defining or serves to define, but it lacks clarity and grammatical structure. Example: "The concept is defining for our understanding of the topic."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

He called it "defining deviancy down".

"They're saying, 'I'm tired of it defining my life,' " he said.

Some Britons dismiss this island nation's traditional standoffish relationship with the Continent as dated, but many others consider it defining.

News & Media

The New York Times

But imbuing Jesus' family with modern social pathologies -- you might call it defining deviancy up -- is problematic.

News & Media

The New York Times

Despite the nebulous quality of that term, or perhaps because of it, defining Manning's gravitas has surely become the second-most popular New York quarterback issue, after anything having to do with Tim Tebow.

Mr. Cattelan, who has been devising his spiky theatrical tableaus and actions since the late 80's, shares Marcel Duchamp's belief that the artist begins the work but the viewer completes it, defining the artwork's meaning and value and ultimately releasing it from its physical shell to become a story, a controversy, an image in the mind.

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Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

It defines its absence.

News & Media

Huffington Post

It defined John Edwards.

News & Media

The New York Times

It defines urgency.

News & Media

The New York Times

It defined her.

News & Media

The New York Times

It defines intent.

News & Media

The New York Times
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Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, use the full form "it is defining" or the simple present "it defines" instead of the abbreviated "it defining". This avoids ambiguity and ensures grammatical correctness.

Common error

Be mindful of omitting the auxiliary verb when using "defining". The phrase "it defining" lacks grammatical completeness and can confuse readers. Always include the necessary verb form to maintain clarity and accuracy in your writing.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

88%

Authority and reliability

3.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it defining" functions as an incomplete verb phrase. Ludwig AI indicates that this construction is not grammatically correct in standard written English, as it lacks the necessary auxiliary verb to form a complete tense.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

43%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it defining" is grammatically incorrect as it misses an auxiliary verb. Ludwig AI confirms this, suggesting the use of "it is defining" or "it defines" for clarity and grammatical accuracy. While the phrase appears across various contexts, including News & Media and Science, it's crucial to ensure proper grammatical construction. For alternatives, consider phrases like "it is characterized by" or "it exemplifies", maintaining the intended meaning with improved grammatical correctness. Remember to include the necessary verb form to prevent ambiguity in your writing.

FAQs

How can I correct the phrase "it defining" in a sentence?

You can correct "it defining" by adding an auxiliary verb, such as "is", to form "it is defining", or by using the simple present tense, such as "it defines".

What's the difference between "it defining" and "it defines"?

"It defining" is grammatically incomplete. "It defines" is the correct form, using the simple present tense to indicate a general truth or habitual action.

When is it appropriate to use "it is defining" instead of "it defines"?

"It is defining" is used to describe an action happening now or over a period of time, whereas "it defines" describes a general or habitual action. The choice depends on the context and the intended meaning.

What are some alternatives to "it defining" that maintain a similar meaning?

Alternatives include phrases like "it is characterized by", "it typifies", or "it exemplifies", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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Authority and reliability

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Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: