it was defined as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was defined as" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when explaining the meaning or characterization of a term or concept in a formal or academic context. Example: "In the study, the phenomenon was defined as a significant change in behavior following the intervention."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Little is known about its physiological functions and signaling cascade, but recently, it was defined as a "Jekyll and Hyde" molecule due to its expression pattern.

BioMed Research International

Policies have long had exclusions for racing, but it was defined as a "timed event".

The New York Times

It was defined as such by the UN, at the partition of British-ruled Palestine in 1947.

The Economist

It was defined as a duty to combat the enemies of Islam, fulfilled by the heart, the tongue, the hand or the sword.

The New York Times

It was defined as a service industry.

Forbes

It was defined as follows.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

It was defined as a continuous variable.

The Journal of Chinese Sociology

It was defined as a dilatation of the collective system.

Critical Ultrasound Journal

We measured the linear thermal expansion parameter β l(T), it was defined as.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Initially it was defined as acute haemorrhage in the aortic wall, without apparent wall tear.

Insights into Imaging

An association with 4 Mb or less intrapair distance was defined as local; otherwise, it was defined as distant.

The American Journal of Human Genetics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

If you define something, be specific about who is doing the defining. For example, “The UN defined it as…” instead of just “it was defined as…”

Common error

Avoid using "it was defined as" excessively, as it can make your writing sound passive and less engaging. Consider rephrasing to use active voice where possible. For instance, instead of "it was defined as X", you could write "scholars define it as X" or “the text defines it as X”.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was defined as" serves as a definitional marker. It introduces a specific meaning or interpretation assigned to a term, concept, or phenomenon. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is correct and suitable for formal writing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

75%

News & Media

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was defined as" functions as a crucial definitional tool, predominantly found in science, news media, and other formal writing contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and serves to introduce established meanings, ensuring precision and clarity. While common, writers should use this phrase judiciously to avoid overly passive constructions. Consider direct alternatives such as "it was described as" or "it was characterized as" to maintain writing engagement. Remember to be specific about who is doing the defining, and, according to Ludwig’s analysis, adapt the formality to suit your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was described as

This alternative focuses on the act of describing, implying a more subjective characterization.

it was characterized as

This alternative emphasizes the identification of key characteristics or qualities.

it was identified as

This suggests a specific recognition or labeling of something.

it was specified as

Implies a more precise and detailed explanation or stipulation.

it was designated as

Suggests a formal assignment or naming of something.

it was considered to be

This phrase conveys a general opinion or assessment rather than a formal definition.

it was known as

Indicates a common or popular understanding of something.

it was understood as

This phrase focuses on the interpretation or comprehension of something.

it was labeled as

Emphasizes the act of assigning a specific label or category.

it was interpreted as

Focuses on a specific reading or understanding of something, which might be subjective.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "it was defined as"?

You can use alternatives like "it was described as", "it was characterized as", or "it was identified as" depending on the context.

How do I use "it was defined as" in a sentence?

Use "it was defined as" to introduce a formal or established definition of a term or concept. For example, "In the study, 'success' "it was defined as" achieving specific, measurable goals."

Is it better to use active or passive voice when defining something?

While ""it was defined as"" is grammatically correct, using the active voice can make your writing more direct and engaging. Consider alternatives such as "researchers define it as" or "the manual defines it as".

What's the difference between "it was defined as" and "it is defined as"?

"It was defined as" implies a past definition, whereas "it is defined as" indicates a current or ongoing definition. Use ""it was defined as"" when referring to a definition that was established at a specific point in the past.