thus defined

USAGE SUMMARY

"thus defined" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the definition of a certain term. For example: "The term 'outsourcing' is thus defined as the transfer of a business process to an external service provider."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The secular world was thus defined by the sacred core.

The New York Times

So my mission was thus defined: spend the entire day shopping, both for holiday and basic needs, and see how service is shaping up this season.

The New York Times

The problem thus defined, he showed how in both these crucial areas Obama has the right skills and ideas – while McCain does not.

The Guardian - Opinion

It had been everywhere, the air, free for the taking, but she had come to desire it only now that she saw it thus defined, extracted, rendered visible.

The New Yorker

It is just that, for decades, art world mandarins proclaimed that art was about ideas, and thus defined in part in opposition to craft.

The New York Times

Magnetic permeability μ (Greek mu) is thus defined as μ = B/H.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But the balance thus defined proved in the 1960s to be extremely volatile.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Thus defined, the Carpathians cover some 80,000 square miles (200,000 square kilometres).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Bentham judged all laws and institutions by their utility thus defined.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The court's decision in Rowley thus defined the term free appropriate public education.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Six fish assemblages were thus defined from the MRT model.

Limnologica - Ecology and Management of Inland Waters

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "thus defined", ensure that the definition is clearly stated prior to using the phrase. This provides context and avoids ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "thus defined" without first providing a clear definition. The phrase serves as a reference point, so the initial definition must be explicitly stated to avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "thus defined" functions as an adverbial modifier, linking a previously stated definition to a subsequent statement or conclusion. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

68%

Encyclopedias

15%

News & Media

9%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "thus defined" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that effectively links a previously established definition to subsequent statements. According to Ludwig, this usage is correct and suitable for formal writing. The phrase is most prevalent in scientific and academic contexts, where precision and clarity are paramount. To ensure effective communication, it's crucial to clearly state the definition before employing "thus defined" to prevent any ambiguity. Considering alternatives such as "thereby defined" or "as such defined" can also refine the tone and emphasis of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

thereby defined

Emphasizes the consequence or result of the definition process.

in this way defined

Highlights the specific manner or method of definition.

as such defined

Focuses on the specific characteristics established in the definition.

accordingly defined

Stresses the agreement or consistency with a prior standard or criterion.

in that sense defined

Clarifies the specific meaning or interpretation being assigned.

as a result defined

Emphasizes the consequence or outcome of a preceding action or condition.

consequently defined

Highlights the logical connection or derivation in the defining process.

specifically defined

Underscores the precision and clarity of the definition.

precisely defined

Highlights the accuracy and exactness of the definition.

ostensibly defined

Highlights the explicit, but potentially superficial, definition.

FAQs

How can I use "thus defined" in a sentence?

Use "thus defined" to refer back to a definition you've already provided. For example, "A widget is a tool used for processing data. The widget "thus defined" is critical for our project".

What's a more formal alternative to "thus defined"?

Consider using phrases like "thereby defined", "as such defined", or "consequently defined" as more formal alternatives. Each option subtly alters the emphasis while maintaining the core meaning.

Is there a difference between "thus defined" and "so defined"?

"Thus defined" and "so defined" are quite similar, both referencing a prior definition. "Thus defined" may carry a slightly more formal tone, while "so defined" can be more conversational. The best choice depends on the context and desired register.

What words usually precede "thus defined"?

Common words preceding "thus defined" include nouns or terms that are about to be referenced based on a prior definition. You might see phrases like 'the term "thus defined"' or 'the variable "thus defined"'.