meet the definition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "meet the definition" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an event, object, or idea that fits the criteria of a definition. For example: "The custom-made dress meets the definition of a couture gown."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

With deregulation, many companies once classified as utilities by S.& P. no longer meet the definition.

The New York Times

What we need to do, is meet the definition of "Outstanding".

The Guardian

It's too bad it doesn't seem to meet the definition of a show worth watching.

The New York Times

While it is not disorderly, it does not meet the definition of orderly".

The New York Times

Dozens of similar bodies may also meet the definition of a dwarf planet.

The New York Times

Nonmetropolitan Counties include all counties that do not meet the definition of a metropolitan county.

The New York Times

First responders routinely experience work-related events that meet the definition of a traumatic stressor.

Journal of Anxiety Disorders

Primary immunodeficiency diseases often fully meet the definition of "experiments of nature".

Biology of Blood and Marrow Transplantation

First, we assess if unequal voting shares meet the definition of equity.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The primary question remains: Which sites will meet the definition of an official museum?

The New York Times - Arts

These tender areas do not always meet the definition of classic trigger points.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "meet the definition", ensure that the definition itself is clear and well-established within the context. This avoids ambiguity and ensures the statement is easily understood.

Common error

Avoid using "meet the definition" when referring to subjective or vague criteria. This phrase is most effective when applied to concrete, measurable standards.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "meet the definition" functions as a predicate, indicating that a subject possesses the necessary attributes or qualities to align with a specific definition. It is a common way to express that something satisfies the requirements of a given definition. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Academia

33%

Science

24%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "meet the definition" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression across diverse contexts, as verified by Ludwig. It serves to assert that a subject aligns with the criteria outlined in a specific definition. While versatile, it's most effective when applied to clear, measurable standards. Related phrases such as "satisfy the criteria" and "fulfill the requirements" offer alternative ways to convey a similar meaning. Remembering these nuances will help you wield this phrase effectively in your writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

satisfy the criteria

Focuses on fulfilling specific requirements or standards rather than a formal definition.

fulfill the requirements

Emphasizes the action of fulfilling necessary conditions or prerequisites.

comply with the definition

Highlights adherence to the terms and conditions of a definition.

conform to the definition

Stresses alignment and agreement with a given definition.

fit the description

Suggests that something matches a general description rather than a precise definition.

align with the definition

Indicates a close match or correspondence to a definition.

accord with the definition

Implies harmony and agreement with the established definition.

answer to the description

Highlights that something corresponds to the description given in a definition.

correspond to the definition

Emphasizes a direct equivalence or similarity to the definition.

measure up to the definition

Suggests that something reaches the standard or expectation set by a definition.

FAQs

How can I use "meet the definition" in a sentence?

You can use "meet the definition" to indicate that something satisfies the criteria of a specific definition. For example, "This new product "meets the definition" of an environmentally friendly product".

What are some alternatives to "meet the definition"?

Alternatives include "satisfy the criteria", "fulfill the requirements", or "comply with the definition", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "meet the definition" or "meets the definition"?

"Meet the definition" is used when referring to a general ability or possibility, while "meets the definition" is used when referring to a specific instance. For example, "Not all products "meet the definition" of organic", versus "This product "meets the definition" of organic".

What's the difference between "meet the definition" and "satisfy the definition"?

While both phrases are similar, "meet the definition" often implies a more direct and complete fulfillment of all criteria, whereas "satisfy the definition" might suggest fulfilling the main or most important aspects of the definition.