under any definition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "under any definition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the applicability or interpretation of a term or concept across various definitions or contexts. Example: "This behavior is unacceptable under any definition of professionalism."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Benefiting from this fact is not nepotism (under any definition) but it's not quite merit, either.

The New York Times - Books

It involves operations, almost daily operations, which we could classify as criminal under any definition.

Yale University

But few would truly qualify under any definition of good corporate governance.

The New York Times

Too many times have we associated the Western Bulldogs with tragedy, and a nine-point margin is not under any definition "comfortable".

The Guardian - Sport

What better than pitching in Game 7? I had a great Game 3, and to win again?" Those games, of course, were big under any definition.

The New York Times - Sports

That proposition is not at issue in this case, however, for Hialeah's animal sacrifice ordinances are not neutral under any definition, any more than they are generally applicable.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

So while many politicians still defend the affordable housing goals as a way to help the poor, they're distracting people from the fact these goals didn't really produce affordable housing – under virtually any definition.

Forbes

There has been a succession of statements that turned out to be false under any normal definition of the term.

Princeton University

A spokesman for Putnam said: "None of Mr. Woolverton's trades in international funds could be considered market timing under any reasonable definition of that term.

The New York Times

As for the resident deans, he said, "as far as I can tell right now, they're faculty under any reasonable definition the university gives".

The New York Times

"The recent Cambridge Analytica stories by the NY Times and The Guardian are important and powerful, but it is incorrect to call this a 'breach' under any reasonable definition of the term," Mr. Stamos tweeted.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing this phrase, ensure the context clearly establishes the different definitions being considered. This provides a solid base for the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "under any definition" as a mere rhetorical flourish. Ensure that there are genuinely multiple plausible definitions at play, and that the statement holds true for each. Otherwise, the phrase may appear unfounded or pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under any definition" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or adjective to indicate that a statement is true irrespective of different interpretations or criteria. It emphasizes the robustness and universality of a claim. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "under any definition" is a grammatically correct adverbial phrase that emphasizes the universality and robustness of a statement, irrespective of varying interpretations. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It is most frequently used in news and media, followed by academic and scientific contexts. When using the phrase, make sure the context clearly establishes the potential different definitions being considered, and avoid overusing it without genuine justification.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in every sense of the word

Emphasizes the completeness of a characteristic according to various interpretations.

by all accounts

Focuses on agreement from multiple perspectives rather than definitional consistency.

by all standards

It is similar, however, highlights common or established criteria.

by any measure

Highlights quantitative or qualitative assessment rather than specific definitions.

by every standard

Focuses on criteria and benchmarks instead of strict definitions.

in all respects

Indicates agreement or conformity across multiple aspects or criteria.

in any way

Broadens the scope to encompass any possible interpretation or method.

in all aspects

It refers to agreement or alignment in multiple areas or considerations.

without a doubt

Stresses the certainty of a situation, downplaying the role of definitions.

in every possible way

Emphasizes the completeness or exhaustiveness of an action or state.

FAQs

How can I use "under any definition" in a sentence?

You can use "under any definition" to emphasize that a statement is true regardless of interpretation. For example, "The company's actions were unethical "under any definition" of ethical business practices."

What is another way to say "under any definition"?

Alternatives to "under any definition" include "by all accounts", "in every sense of the word", or "by any measure", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to specify which definitions are being considered when using "under any definition"?

While not always explicitly stated, it strengthens your argument to provide context for the possible definitions at play. This provides a solid base for your claim that it holds true "under any definition".

What's the difference between "under any definition" and "in general"?

"Under any definition" emphasizes that a statement remains true irrespective of how a term is defined, while "in general" indicates a broad truth that may have exceptions. The first is about definitional consistency, whereas the second is about overall accuracy. For example, "Smoking is harmful "in general"" admits possible exceptions, but "This is unacceptable "under any definition" of professional conduct" suggests no exceptions based on differing interpretations.