previously defined

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "previously defined" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You might use it to refer back to a definition given earlier in a piece of writing. For example, "The term 'benevolence' was previously defined as an inclination to do good."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

; add the appropriate continuum quantities to our previously defined input arrays.

Harvard University

On the element (e^_{n}), we can use the operator ⊙ previously defined.

EURASIP Journal on Information Security

This file shows the results of comparison with previously defined motifs for RNAcompete RBPs.

Nature

There is no previously defined notion of first lady that Trump can channel.

The Washington Post

Create a model named "ml" from the function "myline", which has been previously defined in Sherpa.

Harvard University

Initiative 1631 exempts roughly 20 industries that have been previously defined by the state as EITE.

Columbia University

Then concatenate the appropriate continuum quantities to our previously defined input arrays.

Harvard University

It's meant to usher in a new era of benevolence from a government previously defined by genocidal proclivities and purges.

The New York Times - Books

GSEA20 was used to analyze whether a previously defined gene sets show statistically significant, concordant differences between two biological states.

Nature

NIXON TODAY — Agreed timetable for complete with drawals as part of an over‐all settlement, based on principles previously defined.

The New York Times

Haplogroups A G previously defined only by CR information, were regarded as being sufficiently supported by the complete sequence data.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "previously defined", ensure that the definition is clear and easily accessible to the reader, either in the immediate context or a clearly referenced earlier section.

Common error

Avoid using "previously defined" if the definition is vague or difficult to locate, which can confuse readers. Provide a clear citation or restate the definition for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "previously defined" functions as an adjective modifying a noun, indicating that the noun has been defined at an earlier point in the text. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

59%

Academia

22%

News & Media

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "previously defined" is a commonly used phrase to refer back to a definition already provided in a text, ensuring clarity and avoiding repetition. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across various fields. It is most prevalent in scientific and academic writing, reflecting its importance in maintaining precision. When using this phrase, ensure the original definition is easily accessible. Common alternatives include "already established" and "as defined earlier". Remember, while the phrase is useful, clarity should always be the guiding principle.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as defined earlier

Explicitly mentions a definition provided at an earlier point in the text.

defined beforehand

Emphasizes that the definition occurred prior to the current context.

already established

Focuses on the establishment of something at an earlier point, similar to defining something beforehand.

previously specified

Highlights the act of specifying details earlier, akin to defining something in advance.

earlier defined

A shorter, less common way to express "previously defined".

heretofore defined

A more formal way of saying "previously defined", indicating a definition given before the current point.

already stipulated

Emphasizes the condition of having been stipulated or agreed upon beforehand.

previously designated

Refers to something that has been assigned or named earlier.

already determined

Highlights the act of determining or deciding something earlier, often used when referring to a set value or condition.

as previously mentioned

Indicates something has been brought up earlier but doesn't necessarily imply a formal definition.

FAQs

How can I use "previously defined" in a sentence?

You can use "previously defined" to refer back to a term, variable, or concept that you've already explained. For example, "The results were analyzed using the "previously defined" criteria."

What are some alternatives to "previously defined"?

Alternatives include "already established", "as defined earlier", or "previously specified". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it necessary to always use "previously defined" when referring to something defined earlier?

No, you don't always need to use "previously defined". If the definition is very close by and clear, you might simply rephrase it or use a pronoun. However, using "previously defined" can improve clarity, especially in longer documents.

What's the difference between "previously defined" and "newly defined"?

"Previously defined" refers to something that has already been given a specific meaning, while "newly defined" indicates that a term or concept is being defined for the first time in the current context.