relatively defined

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "relatively defined" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing concepts or terms that are defined in relation to other factors or contexts, rather than having a fixed or absolute definition. Example: "The term 'success' is relatively defined, as it can vary greatly depending on individual perspectives and cultural backgrounds."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Force-backed humanitarianism, which relies on rational influence over events in other countries, may have been a more feasible project in the bipolar era of the Cold War, with its relatively defined and stable web of alliances and proxies.

The New Yorker

Despite critical pre-season predictions from some – "a flawed player with a relatively defined ceiling", Victorian point guard Dellavedova quickly became a key member of the Cleveland rotation on a roster replete with stars such as James, Kevin Love and Kyrie Irving.

The Guardian - Sport

The other sense is the civic one, which applies to a people by virtue of their common citizenship in a nation-state or, alternatively, by virtue of their common residence within relatively defined geographic borders.

The New York Times

The vulnerability and evacuation resilience are relatively defined for each pixel in the study boundary.

Earth, Planets and Space

Estimated PGA-values are grouped into three categories that are relatively defined as high, moderate, and low hazard zones, respectively.

Geoenvironmental Disasters

Chronically sick animals were described by herders as animals that required repeated treatment for diseases within a relatively defined time period (e.g. one year) with temporary, but not lasting success.

Pastoralism: Research, Policy and Practice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

The fragrance chemical space, although relatively narrowly defined, is currently only relatively sparsely populated compared to its potential, implying that many millions of additional fragrance molecules remain to be discovered.

Journal of Cheminformatics

There may therefore be advantages to requiring investment proposals to be linked to disinvestment proposals within a relatively narrowly defined programme budget (with relatively similar input requirements).

BMC Health Services Research

For occupational settings, where the primary exposure routes are inhalation and dermal, exposure assessment can be relatively straightforward if the quantity of material used and the work area is relatively well defined.

Critical Reviews in Toxicology

"There was a lot of footage, but it was relatively well defined," he said.

The New York Times

And yet given how little most of the speakers have said about Romney, the picture here is relatively well defined, in its broad strokes.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "relatively defined", ensure that the context provides a reference point for the comparison. This helps to clarify the degree to which the definition is relative rather than absolute.

Common error

Avoid using "relatively defined" when an absolute definition is intended or available. Overusing the phrase can create ambiguity and weaken the clarity of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "relatively defined" functions as a modifier, specifically an adjectival phrase, describing something that is defined in relation to something else. It suggests that the definition is not absolute but rather depends on context or comparison as shown by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "relatively defined" is a useful adjectival phrase to convey that a term or concept does not have a fixed or absolute meaning, but rather its definition depends on context or comparison. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and appropriateness for expressing nuanced definitions. While not exceedingly common, the phrase is found in diverse sources, most prominently in science and news media, reflecting its utility in both formal and informal contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure that the context provides a clear reference point to avoid ambiguity, enhancing the clarity of your writing. Remember alternatives such as "comparatively defined" and "contextually defined".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Relatively determined

Similar to "relatively defined", but uses "determined" to emphasize factors influencing the definition.

Contextually defined

Highlights the importance of context in shaping the definition.

Comparatively defined

Emphasizes definition through comparison with other things.

As compared to

Definition through comparison.

Conditionally defined

Focuses on the conditions that determine the definition.

Defined in terms of

The definition is expressed using specific criteria or elements.

Proportionally defined

Suggests a definition based on proportions or ratios.

Subjectively defined

Highlights the subjective nature of the definition.

Partially defined

Indicates that the definition is incomplete or not fully clear.

In relation to

Focuses on the relationship between different things to define it.

FAQs

How do you use "relatively defined" in a sentence?

Use "relatively defined" to indicate that a concept or term is defined in relation to other factors, not absolutely. For example, "Success is "relatively defined", as its meaning varies across cultures".

What does "relatively defined" mean?

It means that a term or concept's definition is not fixed but depends on context or comparison with something else. The definition is therefore not absolute.

What are some alternatives to saying "relatively defined"?

You can use phrases like "contextually defined", "comparatively defined", or "conditionally defined" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "relatively defined"?

It's appropriate when the meaning of a term depends on external factors or comparison. Use it when an absolute or universally applicable definition is not possible or accurate.