question of definition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "question of definition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the need to clarify or specify the meaning of a term or concept. Example: "In the debate about climate change, there is often a question of definition regarding what constitutes 'sustainable practices.'"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

It's a question of definition.

Independent

My first problem, as an affected party, is the question of definition.

The New York Times - Arts

That's a question of definition" -- and just her latest adventure in drawing.

The New York Times

As is often the case, it is partly a question of definition.

The Guardian

5) Their final point, that human-caused global warming is not a crisis, reprises Point 2. Again, this is largely a question of definition and values, not science.

The New York Times

The scientific disagreement over coexistence is also partly a question of definition: the biotech industry and new regulations proposed by the European Union would permit some degree of inadvertent intermixing.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Then there's the question of definitions.

The New York Times - Magazine

That's not a question of definitions, it's a question of your model of the economy.

The New York Times

The difference between the figures essentially boils down to a question of definitions: Who gave what money, and how should it be classified?

The New York Times

For that, let us again return to the question of definitions, to see if we can make some progress there.

City, Territory and Architecture

"It's a question of definitions". Times staff writer James Rainey contributed to this report.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "question of definition", ensure the context clearly indicates which term or concept requires clarification. Provide necessary background information to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "question of definition" without explicitly stating what needs defining. Readers may not be aware of the ambiguity you perceive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "question of definition" functions as a noun phrase that introduces a point of contention or uncertainty regarding the precise meaning of a term or concept. As Ludwig AI suggests, it highlights the importance of clarity in language. The phrase is used to signal that the core of a discussion hinges on establishing a shared understanding of a particular definition.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "question of definition" is a versatile and commonly used expression that highlights the importance of clearly defining terms in any discussion or debate. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted. It's crucial to identify and address any "question of definition" to avoid misunderstandings and ensure meaningful communication. Related phrases include "matter of definition" and "issue of definition". To use the expression correctly, make sure to always specify which term requires clarification and avoid assuming a shared understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

matter of definition

Replaces "question" with "matter", emphasizing the definitional aspect as a point of concern or discussion.

issue of definition

Substitutes "question" with "issue", highlighting the definitional aspect as a problem or point of contention.

problem of definition

Replaces "question" with "problem", framing the need for a definition as a challenge to be resolved.

definitional challenge

Condenses the phrase to emphasize the difficulty inherent in establishing a precise definition.

semantic ambiguity

Focuses on the ambiguity related to meaning, rather than the act of defining.

interpretative problem

Highlights the challenges involved in interpreting a term or concept.

clarification of terms

Shifts the focus to the act of clarifying specific terms.

establishing parameters

Emphasizes setting the boundaries of a definition or concept.

defining criteria

Focuses on the specific criteria used to formulate a definition.

semantic delimitation

Highlights the linguistic act of setting limits to the meaning of something.

FAQs

How do you use "question of definition" in a sentence?

You can use "question of definition" to highlight that an argument or discussion hinges on the specific meaning of a term. For example: "The debate over AI ethics is often a "question of definition": what exactly constitutes 'artificial intelligence'?"

What is another way to say "question of definition"?

Alternatives to "question of definition" include "matter of definition", "issue of definition", or "definitional challenge" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "a question of definition" or "the question of definition"?

Both "a question of definition" and "the question of definition" are grammatically correct. "A question of definition" implies one instance where a definition is debated or unclear, while "the question of definition" refers to a specific definition being examined.

How does the "question of definition" impact discussions?

The "question of definition" often serves as a foundational point in discussions. Disagreements can frequently arise because participants have differing understandings of key terms. Addressing this "question of definition" is often necessary to facilitate productive dialogue.