may be defined

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may be defined" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the potential or possibility of defining a term or concept in a certain way. Example: "In the context of this study, the term 'sustainability' may be defined as the ability to meet present needs without compromising future generations."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Localism may be defined rather loosely.

The Economist

But this Galaxy season may be defined by young talent.

The Guardian - Sport

Watford's season may be defined in the next 15 days.

The Guardian - Sport

Globalisation may be defined as when trade across nations is growing faster than GDP.

The Guardian - Business

Finding something affordable -- however that may be defined -- is critical, especially for young people with unpredictable incomes.

The New York Times

Services may be defined as activities designed to enable personnel or material to perform more effectively.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Incidental inscriptions may be defined as those not seriously meant for preservation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Imitation may be defined as behaviour that selectively duplicates that of another person.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The confinement potential may be defined as.

Nanoscale Research Letters

First, χ may be defined as (14).

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Several strategies may be defined for reducing variability.

Transactions of Nonferrous Metals Society of China

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid overuse of "may be defined" in contexts where a clear and universally accepted definition exists; opt for a more direct statement instead.

Common error

Avoid using "may be defined" when a definitive definition is required or already established. Overusing tentative language can weaken your argument and create uncertainty where none exists.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may be defined" serves as a hedging device in academic and professional writing. It introduces a definition that is provisional, context-dependent, or not universally accepted. Ludwig AI confirms that the expression is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

23%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "may be defined" is a versatile linguistic tool used to introduce definitions with a degree of tentativeness or contextual specificity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable. Predominantly found in science, news media and encyclopedias, "may be defined" allows writers to present definitions that are not necessarily universally accepted, or are tailored to a specific argument. When a definitive definition is required, avoid using the phrase. Instead use phrases like ""is defined as"".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be defined

Replaces 'may' with 'can', suggesting possibility or ability to define.

could be defined

Substitutes 'may' with 'could', indicating a conditional possibility.

might be defined

Uses 'might' instead of 'may', conveying a slightly lower probability.

is defined as

Presents a direct definition, removing the element of possibility.

can be characterized as

Replaces 'defined' with 'characterized', shifting focus to describing attributes.

could be interpreted as

Suggests a potential interpretation, rather than a strict definition.

is understood to be

Focuses on common understanding, implying a generally accepted definition.

is taken to mean

Highlights the intended meaning, rather than a formal definition.

is considered to be

Emphasizes a considered or evaluated perspective.

is seen as

Indicates a particular viewpoint or perspective.

FAQs

How do I use "may be defined" in a sentence?

Use "may be defined" to introduce a possible or provisional definition, such as, "In this context, sustainability "may be defined" as the ability to meet present needs without compromising future generations."

What are some alternatives to "may be defined"?

Alternatives include "can be defined", "could be defined", or "might be defined", depending on the nuance you want to convey. For a direct definition, use "is defined as".

When is it appropriate to use "may be defined" instead of "is defined as"?

"May be defined" is appropriate when the definition is not universally accepted or is specific to a particular context. "Is defined as" suggests a more definitive and widely recognized definition.

What is the difference between "may be defined" and "can be defined"?

While both suggest possibility, "may be defined" implies a slightly more tentative or contextual definition, whereas "can be defined" suggests a general potential for definition. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.