strict definition

USAGE SUMMARY

"strict definition" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It refers to a specific and precise meaning of a word or phrase. You can use "strict definition" when discussing the precise meaning of a term, especially if there are multiple interpretations or if the meaning is often misused or misunderstood. Example: "The term 'family' has a strict definition that is often overlooked or disregarded in modern society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mr. Sharon elected to use a strict definition.

The New York Times

This strict definition includes attributes usually connected to humans like plasticity and creativity.

The Guardian

Gore had strayed quite a bit from the strict definition of a metaphor.

The New Yorker

The firm's website firmly says it has a "strict definition" of value.

The Guardian - Business

She immediately acknowledged that her concert, part of Lincoln Center's American Songbook series, didn't fit the strict definition of "American".

The New York Times - Arts

The Netherlands also meets the strict definition of a recession, with two consecutive quarters of declining output.

The New York Times

It likes his position that "any foreign involvement must be based on a strict definition of vital national interest".

The New York Times

The Living Wage Foundation has a strict definition for a company to be designated as a living wage employer.

The Guardian

However, knowing the strict definition of a word or the literal meaning of a phrase only goes so far.

Britannica

Regardless of whether our beers foamed over the confines of a strict definition, we found some delicious examples.

The New York Times - Food

The audience for jazz is small, and a strict definition of jazz only excludes new listeners, he said.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "strict definition" when you need to emphasize the importance of adhering to a precise and unambiguous meaning of a term, especially in contexts where misinterpretations are likely or have serious consequences.

Common error

Avoid using "strict definition" when a more general or flexible interpretation is appropriate. Applying a strict definition inappropriately can lead to unnecessary rigidity and limit understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strict definition" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a common phrase. It is used to denote a precise and unambiguous meaning of a term.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

29%

News & Media

47%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "strict definition" is a commonly used noun phrase indicating a precise and unambiguous meaning of a term. As Ludwig AI shows, it appears frequently in news, science, and formal contexts to emphasize clarity and avoid misinterpretations. When using this phrase, be mindful of the context and ensure that the level of precision is appropriate. Alternatives such as "precise definition" or "rigorous definition" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Using a "strict definition" is useful to improve communication by reducing ambiguity and ensuring accurate understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Precise definition

Emphasizes accuracy and lack of ambiguity.

Rigorous definition

Highlights thoroughness and adherence to strict standards.

Exact definition

Focuses on pinpoint accuracy and detail.

Specific definition

Indicates a clear and unambiguous meaning.

Formal definition

Implies adherence to established conventions or rules.

Technical definition

Refers to a definition used within a particular field or discipline.

Literal definition

Highlights the primary or original meaning of a term.

Narrow definition

Implies a limited or restricted scope of meaning.

Well-defined term

Focuses on the clarity and explicitness of a concept.

Unambiguous definition

Emphasizes the lack of potential for misinterpretation.

FAQs

How can I use "strict definition" in a sentence?

You can use "strict definition" to emphasize that you are referring to the precise and accurate meaning of a term. For example: "Under a "strict definition", only certain actions qualify as 'plagiarism'."

What's a good alternative to "strict definition"?

Alternatives include "precise definition", "rigorous definition", or "exact definition" depending on the level of emphasis you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use a "strict definition"?

It's appropriate when clarity and accuracy are paramount, especially in legal, scientific, or technical contexts where misinterpretations could have significant consequences. Also, consider using it if there are multiple ways to interpret the term.

What happens if I don't use a "strict definition" when needed?

Failing to use a "strict definition" when necessary can lead to ambiguity, misunderstandings, and potentially flawed conclusions. This is especially true in fields requiring precision, where even slight variations in meaning can have substantial impacts.