we are defining

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are defining" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when explaining or clarifying a term, concept, or idea in a discussion or text. Example: "In this section of the report, we are defining the key terms that will be used throughout the study."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

"We are defining what a memorial is".

The New York Times

Maybe we are defining ourselves out of rebellion.

The New York Times

We are defining what this show is, not redefining".

The New York Times

"We are defining our standards for ourselves," she said.

The New York Times

"The greatest thing about this is we are defining a lot of things.

The Guardian - Tech

'def' is the keyword to show that we are defining a function.

Columbia University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

We are defined by what life asks of us.

The New York Times

We are defined, constituted, by our narratives of ourselves.

The Guardian - Books

"Where we used to be defined by what we did, now we are defined by what we buy.

The Guardian

"Too often in Washington, we are defined as the party of no.

The Guardian

We are, he suggests, defined not just by what we do; we are defined by what we are willing to do without.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are defining", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being defined and why that definition is important for the reader's understanding. This is especially useful in academic papers or technical documentation.

Common error

Avoid using "we are defining" excessively in formal writing, particularly in sections where objectivity is crucial. Instead, opt for passive constructions or rephrase to emphasize the definition itself rather than the act of defining.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are defining" functions as a present continuous construction used to introduce or clarify the meaning of a term, concept, or idea. As Ludwig AI points out, it's commonly employed to set the stage for a discussion or analysis by establishing a shared understanding.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

32%

News & Media

32%

Science

29%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we are defining" is a versatile phrase used to introduce or clarify the meaning of a term or concept, frequently found in academic, news, and scientific contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While highly useful for establishing clarity, it's important to consider the tone and style conventions of the writing context and avoid overuse in formal writing. Alternatives such as "we are outlining" or "we are specifying" may be suitable depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are determining

This phrase suggests a process of discovery or ascertainment, rather than the active assignment of meaning implied by "defining".

we are outlining

While "outlining" can be part of defining, it suggests a preliminary sketch rather than a complete definition.

we are specifying

This alternative emphasizes the act of being precise and detailed, and is used when providing explicit parameters or conditions.

we are identifying

This implies discovering or recognizing something already existing, rather than creating a new definition.

we are delineating

This alternative suggests a clearer separation and distinction between different things or elements, such as ideas or borders.

we prefer defining

This alternative highlights the subjective preference in choosing a particular definition, implying a deliberate choice among options.

we suggest defining

This conveys a recommendation to establish a clear definition, often in the context of a discussion or proposal.

we are characterizing

This emphasizes describing distinctive qualities or features, often focusing on attributes rather than formal definitions.

we are finalising

Refers to the concluding steps in establishing the definition, meaning that the process of defining is almost completed.

we are designing

This alternative implies a constructive, creative process of designing a definition, often with a specific purpose in mind.

FAQs

How can I use "we are defining" in a sentence?

Use "we are defining" to introduce a specific meaning or scope for a term or concept. For example, "In this study, "we are defining" 'success' as achieving specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound goals."

What are some alternatives to "we are defining"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "we are outlining", "we are specifying", or "we are identifying" to introduce a definition or clarification.

Is it appropriate to use "we are defining" in academic writing?

Yes, it is appropriate, especially in sections where you need to establish the parameters or scope of your research. However, ensure that it aligns with the overall tone and style guidelines of academic writing, which may favor more objective phrasing.

How does "we are defining" differ from "we are describing"?

"We are defining" establishes a precise meaning, while "we are describing" provides a broader overview of characteristics or attributes. Defining sets boundaries, whereas describing offers details.