it is not defined

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'it is not defined' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in a sentence when you want to convey that something is not clearly or precisely stated, or when there is not a definite answer to a question. For example, you could say, "What is the criteria for success? It is not defined."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

In this time, Berlin has found something it didn't expect: that it is not defined like other cities by its wealth or its industry or its commerce, but rather surprisingly by its own fascinating complexity and contradictions.

The Guardian - Opinion

Her fan base may be largely female but it is not defined by race.

The Guardian

Since it is not defined as punishment for a crime, it does not fall under "cruel and unusual punishment," the reasoning goes.

The New York Times

But it is not defined in any federal statute, and two recent cases filed by the S.E.C. show how malleable the term "insider trading" can be.

The New York Times

Although it is not defined by a single institution or set of institutions, paternalism was prevalent among the early industrial companies.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Convenient collection is often mandated in EPR/PS laws, however it is not defined.

Waste Management

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

It isn't defined, but it appears to involve making the Phase 1 changes permanent.

The New Yorker

The reaction they received when I put them out proved to me that grime isn't restricted by tempo - and it isn't defined by it's aggressiveness.

Vice

It seems that a "locus" is one of the key concepts of the model - why it isn't defined explicitly instead of by example?

Biology Direct

30 Each item was scored as follows: 2 points if it was clearly defined in the article, 1 point if its description was incomplete or unclear and 0 point if it was not defined or was inadequate.

BMJ Open

"And it's not defined in the senators and members handbook, is it?" Miles: "No".

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

If possible, follow "it is not defined" with an explanation of why it lacks a definition or what the consequences are.

Common error

Avoid using "it is not defined" without specifying who does not define it or where the definition is lacking. Is it not defined in law, in common usage, or by a specific authority?

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is not defined" primarily functions as a statement indicating the absence of a clear or precise definition for a particular concept, term, or process. Ludwig AI confirms this through its analysis of numerous real-world examples, highlighting its use across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

37%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is not defined" is a versatile phrase used to indicate the absence of a clear or explicit definition. As Ludwig AI's analysis shows, it appears across a wide range of contexts, from scientific research to news reporting. While grammatically straightforward, it's important to use the phrase precisely and provide sufficient context to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "it remains undefined" or "it is not specified" can offer subtle variations in meaning. By being mindful of these nuances, you can ensure that your writing is clear, accurate, and effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it remains undefined

Emphasizes the continuing lack of definition, implying that the situation hasn't changed.

it is not specified

Focuses on the absence of explicit details or conditions.

it is not clarified

Highlights that something lacks clearness or has not been made easier to understand.

it lacks definition

Directly states the absence of a clear boundary or meaning.

it is undetermined

Indicates that something is not yet decided or established.

it is not established

Suggests that something is not firmly set or proven.

it is not delineated

Focuses on the absence of clear boundaries or distinctions.

it is unquantified

Emphasizes the lack of a specific quantity or measurement.

it is uncircumscribed

Indicates a lack of limits or boundaries.

its scope is vague

Highlights that extent, reach, or area is uncertain or ill-defined.

FAQs

How can I use "it is not defined" in a sentence?

You can use "it is not defined" to indicate that a term, concept, or process lacks a clear or precise definition. For example, "The scope of the project was ambitious, but the success criteria "it is not defined" adequately."

What are some alternatives to saying "it is not defined"?

Alternatives include phrases like "it remains undefined", "it is not specified", or "it lacks definition", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "it is not defined" or "it has not been defined"?

Both "it is not defined" and "it has not been defined" are grammatically correct. "It is not defined" implies a general lack of definition, while "it has not been defined" suggests that a definition is absent at the present time but could potentially be created in the future.

When is it appropriate to use "it is not defined" in academic writing?

In academic writing, use "it is not defined" when discussing concepts, terms, or methodologies that lack a clear, universally accepted definition. This indicates a gap in knowledge or a need for further research and clarification.