that defines

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that defines" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to specify or clarify the meaning or characteristics of something. Example: "The term 'sustainability' refers to practices that define our approach to environmental conservation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That defines everything.

The New York Times - Magazine

"It's not something that defines me.

Independent

It's your husband that defines you".

The Guardian - Books

It's a moment that defines a career.

The Guardian - Sport

We're waiting for something that defines her.

The Guardian - Film

Argyll is a region that defines tranquillity.

The New York Times - Travel

There is one value that defines Golden.

The New York Times - Sports

But it is Plains that defines him.

The Washington Post

Just what is it that defines populism?

Princeton University

Parameter that defines a gauss distribution.

Yale University

The transience that defines what it means to be human".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that defines" to clearly and concisely indicate the essential qualities or characteristics of a subject. Ensure the defining characteristic is pivotal to the subject's understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "that defines" when the characteristic is trivial or obvious. Ensure the attribute provides genuine insight, not just a superficial description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that defines" functions as a relative clause, specifically a defining relative clause. It modifies a noun by specifying or limiting its meaning, indicating an essential attribute or characteristic. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

6%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that defines" serves to specify the essential attributes of a subject. Grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts, from news to academia, it helps clarify understanding by highlighting key characteristics. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage and provides numerous examples. While versatile, it is best used when the defining characteristic offers genuine insight. Alternatives such as "which characterizes" or "which determines" can provide nuanced variations depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

which characterizes

Replaces "that defines" with a focus on typical attributes.

which determines

Substitutes "that defines" by highlighting the act of establishing limits or outcomes.

that specifies

Replaces "that defines" with an emphasis on particular conditions or details.

that identifies

Changes "that defines" to highlight the recognition or establishment of something's identity.

that distinguishes

Replaces "that defines" to focus on features setting something apart from others.

that encapsulates

Substitutes "that defines" by highlighting how something briefly expresses essential features.

that embodies

Replaces "that defines" with a focus on the physical or tangible representation of something.

that typifies

Changes "that defines" to emphasize the quality of being representative of a class or type.

which constitutes

Substitutes "that defines" by indicating the elements or parts that form a whole.

which marks

Changes "that defines" to highlight a characteristic or feature that is distinctive.

FAQs

How can I use "that defines" in a sentence?

Use "that defines" to specify the core characteristics or essence of something. For example, "Integrity is the quality "that defines" a trustworthy leader."

What are some alternatives to "that defines"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "which characterizes", "that specifies", or "which determines".

Is it better to use "that defines" or "that identifies"?

The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey. "That defines" emphasizes the core essence or characteristics, while "that identifies" focuses on distinguishing or recognizing something.

How does "that defines" differ from "that describes"?

"That defines" indicates essential qualities necessary for understanding something, whereas "that describes" provides a more general account of its attributes without necessarily focusing on what is essential.