this is defined as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is defined as" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to clarify the meaning of a term or concept in a formal or academic context. Example: "In the context of this study, 'sustainability' is defined as the ability to meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In the dictionary this is defined as "making money by starting new businesses" which, indeed, he has done.

The Guardian - Money

Whether this is defined as racial preferences, fairness or just good business sense, it is central to the national agenda.

The New York Times

This is defined as risk that the woman will die or have a major bodily function impaired.

The Guardian

This is defined as the proportion of times each side would win on average if the game were repeatedly played to completion.

The Guardian

But because this is defined as political, not security, the government will be tempted to use the Parliament Act to overrule the Lords.

The Guardian - Opinion

The more this is defined as Islam versus the West, the worse it is for us and, I would argue, for Muslims themselves.

The New Yorker

This is defined as excess thorium-230 because its abundance exceeds the equilibrium amount that should be present.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This is defined as follows.

Vietnam Journal of Computer Science

This is defined as the population distribution.

Journal of Cloud Computing

This is defined as stress-dominated region.

International Journal of Mechanical and Materials Engineering

This is defined as residual sodium carbonate (RSC).

Applied Water Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When defining a term, ensure the definition is clear, concise, and tailored to your target audience. Avoid jargon or overly technical language unless your audience is familiar with it.

Common error

Avoid using circular definitions, where the definition includes the term being defined. Instead, use simpler, more accessible language to explain the concept.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is defined as" serves as a definitional marker. It introduces a formal explanation or specification of a term, concept, or process. As shown by Ludwig, this expression is appropriate when clarity and precision are required.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this is defined as" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression, especially in formal contexts. As Ludwig AI highlights, it functions as a definitional marker, aiming to provide clarity and precision. While versatile, it's best suited for science, news, and encyclopedic content where unambiguous definitions are crucial. Alternatives such as "this refers to" or "this is characterized as" can be used to vary your writing style. Remember to avoid circular definitions and tailor your language to your audience for maximum clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this can be defined as

Adds a degree of possibility or conditionality to the definition.

this is understood as

Emphasizes the interpretation or comprehension of a concept.

this is characterized as

Focuses on the attributes or qualities that describe something.

this refers to

Provides a direct link to what a term or concept indicates.

this is known as

Highlights the common or accepted name for something.

this equates to

Indicates that something is equal or equivalent to something else.

in other words

Introduces a rephrasing or clarification of a previous statement.

put simply

Offers a simplified explanation of a complex topic.

what this means is

Explains the implication or significance of a statement.

this implies

Suggests a logical consequence or outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "this is defined as" in a sentence?

Use "this is defined as" to introduce a formal definition of a term or concept. For example, "In this context, 'sustainability' "this is defined as" the ability to meet present needs without compromising future generations".

What are some alternatives to "this is defined as"?

You can use alternatives like "this refers to", "this is characterized as", or "this is known as" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "this is defined as" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "this is defined as" is more suited for formal or academic writing. In informal contexts, consider using simpler phrases like "this means" or "this is".

What is the difference between "this is defined as" and "this is considered as"?

"This is defined as" implies a formal, established definition, while "this is considered as" suggests a more subjective or commonly held belief or perception. The former is more precise, while the latter is more open to interpretation.