they have defined

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they have defined" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that has been established or explained by a group or individuals in the past. Example: "In their latest report, they have defined the key terms that will be used throughout the study."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"They have defined that look, and now it is passing their prime time".

The New York Times

Newspapers are in trouble because they have defined their missions as being everything to everyone.

The New York Times

For them, it is about learning and discovery, and they have defined interests, such as photography, archaeology and culture.

The Guardian - Travel

But the fact is that they have defined broad differences on these two issues without his help.

The New York Times

The biennial tussles between the United States and Europe defined him as much as they have defined Seve Ballesteros.

The Guardian - Sport

They have defined the basic requirements for an agent written in the Net's most versatile language Java.

The Economist

Since this summer they have defined their military "main effort" as the build-up of the Iraqi army and police.

The Economist

"With Romney's help, they have defined Romney as a man with total disregard for the struggles of the middle class".

The New York Times

In practice, they have defined self-defence to include punishment bombings after any Iraqi challenge to their authority.

The Economist

"It is not clear to us how they have defined their interests in Iraq," Mr. Hussein said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

They have defined-contribution 401(k) retirement plans, which means that the longer the discount carrier pilots work, the bigger their nest eggs.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they have defined", ensure that the referent of "they" is clear to avoid ambiguity. If the defining entity is unclear, rephrase to specify who is doing the defining.

Common error

Avoid using "they have defined" when it's unclear who "they" refers to. Always specify the group or individuals who established the definition to maintain clarity and precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they have defined" functions as a verb phrase indicating the act of establishing or setting the meaning, scope, or characteristics of something. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable. The provided examples show it being used across various contexts to indicate definition-setting.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they have defined" is a versatile verb phrase used to indicate that a group or entity has established the meaning, scope, or characteristics of something. According to Ludwig AI, its usage is grammatically sound and common across various contexts, including News & Media and Science. When using this phrase, clarity is key; ensure that the referent of "they" is clear to avoid ambiguity. Related phrases such as "they established" or "they specified" can be used to add nuance. As seen in the analysis, the phrase functions neutrally and professionally, lending itself well to objective and informative communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they established

This alternative focuses on the act of setting up or founding something, rather than specifically defining it.

they determined

This alternative emphasizes the process of reaching a conclusion or decision about something.

they specified

This alternative highlights the act of stating something explicitly and in detail.

they delineated

This alternative emphasizes the act of marking the boundaries or limits of something.

they characterized

This alternative focuses on describing the distinctive features or nature of something.

they identified

This alternative emphasizes the act of recognizing or pointing out something specific.

they set the parameters

This alternative focuses on establishing the limits or scope of something.

they laid down the rules

This alternative highlights the act of establishing regulations or guidelines.

they formalized

This alternative suggests giving something a definite structure or shape.

they clarified

This alternative emphasizes making something clearer and easier to understand.

FAQs

How can I use "they have defined" in a sentence?

You can use "they have defined" to explain how a group or entity has established the meaning or scope of something. For example: "Scientists "they have defined" the criteria for inclusion in the study."

What are some alternatives to "they have defined"?

Alternatives include "they established", "they specified", or "they delineated", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to specify who "they" refers to when using "they have defined"?

While not always grammatically required, specifying who "they" refers to enhances clarity. In contexts where the defining entity is obvious, it might be omitted. However, explicit specification generally improves precision and avoids ambiguity.

What's the difference between "they have defined" and "they defined"?

"They have defined" (present perfect) suggests a definition established at some point in the past that is still relevant. "They defined" (simple past) implies the definition was established in the past, without necessarily emphasizing its current relevance.