using a formal definition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "using a formal definition" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing concepts or terms that require a precise and established meaning, often in academic or technical contexts. Example: "In this paper, we will be using a formal definition of 'sustainability' to ensure clarity in our arguments."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Using a formal definition of intertwined homo-oligomers, we survey the Protein Data Bank for all such complexes.

Structure

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

In contrast, Lanza and Marinescu ([2005]) use a formal definition for smells based on metrics and thresholds.

Journal of Software Engineering Research and Development

We did not use a formal definition of CNS infection.

American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene

However, few authors have used a formal definition of high blood pressure when studying exposure to occupational noise.

BMC Public Health

Despite its widespread use, a formal definition of the language did not exist beyond Daylight's SMILES Theory Manual and tutorials.

Journal of Cheminformatics

AI planning requires the definition of action models using a formal action and plan description language, such as the standard Planning Domain Definition Language (PDDL), as input.

Artificial Intelligence

We will explain the intuitive meaning of this definition (and justify calling it 'independence') in Section 4; for the time being we just use it as a formal definition.

SEP

The idea of Tikhonov regularization [ 19, 20] will be used to obtain a formal definition of a regularized coefficient of multiple correlation.

BioMed Research International

In practice, however, text templates and informal rich pictures rather than models are used to capture the knowledge; a formal definition of model entities and their relations is missing in the current state of the art.

Journal of Systems and Software

The research discussed here presents a formal definition of an algorithm that uses a sequential pruning technique for automatically computing balances of mass-haul diagrams.

Automation in Construction

Section 4 provides a formal definition of a filter cost function used for optimizing operational fidelity over the control space and deriving useful filters.

EPJ Quantum Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing technical or academic papers, clarify your terms by "using a formal definition" to avoid ambiguity and ensure precise communication.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on informal or intuitive understandings of terms. Readers from different backgrounds may interpret them differently. Always clarify your meaning by "using a formal definition" when available.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "using a formal definition" serves as a methodological indicator, specifying that a structured and standardized meaning is being applied. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

47%

Academia

28%

News & Media

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "using a formal definition" is a common and grammatically sound expression that indicates a conscious effort to employ a precise and standardized meaning. Ludwig confirms its correctness and highlights its utility across various fields. As evidenced by examples from scientific journals, academic papers, and news media, the phrase is most frequently employed in scientific and academic settings, where clarity and rigor are paramount. When clarity is essential, remember that options like "employing a precise definition" or "applying a rigorous definition" also work very well.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

employing a precise definition

Replaces "using" with "employing" and "formal" with "precise" maintaining a similar level of formality and accuracy.

utilizing a standard definition

Substitutes "using" with "utilizing" and "formal" with "standard", suggesting adherence to a commonly accepted definition.

applying a rigorous definition

Changes "using" to "applying" and replaces "formal" with "rigorous" emphasizing the strictness of the definition.

adopting a technical definition

Replaces "formal" with "technical", indicating a definition specific to a particular field or discipline.

implementing a structured definition

Substitutes "using" with "implementing" and replaces "formal" with "structured" highlighting the organized nature of the definition.

working with a set definition

Replaces "using" with "working with" and "formal" with "set", suggesting a pre-established definition is being used.

relying on a conventional definition

Changes "using" to "relying on" and replaces "formal" with "conventional" implying dependence on a widely accepted definition.

drawing on a fixed definition

Substitutes "using" with "drawing on" and replaces "formal" with "fixed", suggesting reference to an unchangeable definition.

following a prescribed definition

Changes "using" to "following" and replaces "formal" with "prescribed", emphasizing adherence to a mandatory definition.

employing an established definition

Replaces "using" with "employing" and "formal" with "established", pointing to a well-recognized definition.

FAQs

Why is it important to "use a formal definition" in academic writing?

In academic writing, "using a formal definition" ensures clarity and precision, avoiding misunderstandings and establishing a solid foundation for your arguments. It demonstrates rigor and attention to detail, strengthening the credibility of your work.

What are some alternatives to "using a formal definition"?

Alternatives include "employing a precise definition", "utilizing a standard definition", or "applying a rigorous definition". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

When is it necessary to "use a formal definition"?

It's necessary to "use a formal definition" when dealing with technical terms, complex concepts, or when precision is critical to avoid ambiguity. This is especially important in academic, scientific, and legal contexts.

How does "using a formal definition" enhance communication?

"Using a formal definition" provides a clear and unambiguous understanding of the term being discussed, ensuring that all parties involved share the same frame of reference. This minimizes misinterpretations and facilitates more effective communication.