to define with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to define with" is not standard in written English and may lead to confusion.
It could be used in contexts where you are specifying the means or method of defining something, but it is not commonly used. Example: "I need to define with clarity the terms of our agreement."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

Gender itself is difficult to define, with a mix of social, medical and individual interpretations.

The Guardian

Rule 404 employs terms that are difficult to define with precision.

The New Yorker

"I want to define with Algeria a strategic partnership on an equal-to-equal basis.

The New York Times

The several councils mentioned in Talmudic literature are equally difficult to define with any precision.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"He has symptoms, and really, they're hard to define with him," said Glen Sather, the Rangers' president and general manager.

The New York Times - Sports

To his credit, he circles his subject in eloquent detail without ever attempting to define with any finality what lies at the heart of Morrison's songwriting.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

But I don't want to define myself with silly stunts, hugging huskies or sledging with hoodies or anything like that.

The Guardian

The optimal cutoff values were SI ≥ 6 to define tumors with high GOLPH3 expression, and SI ≤4 to define tumors with low GOLPH3 expression.

BMC Cancer

Sometimes with work, it's this thing of: what is going to define me with my career, what am I searching for?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But unlike the voluble Sharpton or the squarish Joe Lieberman, Edwards has struggled to define himself with voters.

The New York Times - Magazine

We know that Malcolm Turnbull and Bill Shorten are leaders struggling to define themselves with a cynical public.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, replace "to define with" with more precise alternatives like "to specify using" or "to clarify using". These alternatives enhance readability and grammatical correctness.

Common error

Do not use "to define with" when a simpler, more direct phrasing can express your intended meaning. Overcomplicating your sentence can obscure your message and reduce the impact of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to define with" functions as an infinitive phrase followed by a preposition. While it appears in various contexts, Ludwig AI suggests that it's not the most grammatically sound phrasing, and clearer alternatives exist.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "to define with" appears across various sources, Ludwig highlights that it is not considered the most grammatically sound. This phrase, which combines an infinitive with a preposition, aims to express the use of a specific method or tool in the act of defining. Its usage spans from scientific literature to news media, but its awkward construction can lead to ambiguity. For clearer and more effective communication, alternatives like "to specify using" or "to clarify using" are recommended. When choosing a replacement, consider the context and intended level of formality to ensure your writing is precise and easily understood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to specify using

This alternative focuses on making something explicit through the use of a particular tool or method, implying a more precise and detailed definition.

to delineate by means of

This phrase suggests a clear boundary or distinction is established using a specific method, emphasizing clarity and separation.

to characterize through

Emphasizes the use of specific characteristics to describe or identify something, focusing on distinct qualities.

to determine via

Indicates that a definition or conclusion is reached as a result of using a particular method or process, emphasizing the pathway to definition.

to establish with clarity

Focuses on achieving a clear and unambiguous definition, highlighting the importance of precision and lack of confusion.

to clarify using

This option directly replaces define with clarify, suggesting to make clear or easier to understand by using something.

to identify by utilizing

Focuses on the act of recognizing or establishing something's identity through the application of a specific resource or technique.

to explain through

This alternative emphasizes the use of something in order to make the definition understood or clarified.

to illustrate with

Indicates providing examples or visual aids to explain the concept or definition.

to ascertain via

This phrase implies a more formal or investigative process to establish a definition, suggesting a careful and thorough examination.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "to define with" for better clarity?

Consider using alternatives such as "to specify using" or "to clarify using" for improved precision. The best choice depends on the specific context and intended meaning.

Is "to define with" grammatically correct?

While used in some contexts, "to define with" is not the most grammatically sound phrasing. Opting for alternatives like "to define using" often results in clearer and more conventional English.

What's a more formal alternative to "to define with"?

For a more formal tone, try "to delineate by means of" or "to ascertain via", depending on the nuances you wish to convey. These options lend a sense of precision and thoroughness.

How does the meaning change when using "to define with" versus "to define using"?

"To define with" can sound slightly awkward and less direct. "To define using" is generally clearer and more widely accepted, directly indicating that something is used in the process of defining.