we define

USAGE SUMMARY

"We define" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It can be used when introducing a definition that a group agrees upon, or when introducing a definition that the speaker or writer is going to explain in the sentence or following sentences. For example, "We define success as achieving one's goals despite any obstacles that may stand in the way."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We define swapping broadly".

The New York Times

"We define ourselves more broadly.

The New York Times

That's how we define life".

The New York Times

How do we define jobs?

Harvard Business Review

It also matters how we define privacy.

The New York Times - Tech

But how do we define defenseless?

The New York Times

We define 2 global variables.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

We define it very broadly.

Princeton University

How do we define impact?

Harvard University

How do we define the 'good'good

The New York Times

So how do we define sportsmanship?

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we define", ensure that the definition is precise and aligns with the context to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "we define" loosely without a clear scope. Ensure that the definition is consistently applied throughout your text to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we define" serves as a declarative statement to introduce a specific definition or interpretation. As confirmed by Ludwig, it indicates the act of establishing a clear meaning for a term or concept. Examples show its use in academic, scientific, and general contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

31%

News & Media

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we define" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase for introducing a specific definition or interpretation. As Ludwig confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, including scientific, news, and academic writing. The phrase's main purpose is to establish clarity and shared understanding. While it maintains a neutral register, its use should be precise and consistent. Related phrases like "our definition is" and "we consider" offer alternative ways to express the act of defining, each with slight nuances in formality and subjectivity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

our definition is

This alternative specifies that the definition is from the speaker's perspective or group.

we consider

This implies a more informal or subjective viewpoint in setting a definition.

we stipulate

This suggests a formal and precise definition, often used in legal or technical contexts.

by definition

This phrase is a shorthand for indicating something is inherently true based on the definition.

our understanding is

This expresses a particular comprehension, shaping how something is defined.

in our view

This signals a subjective interpretation influencing a definition.

we characterize

This focuses on describing key features or qualities when defining something.

we designate

This indicates a specific assignment or naming of something within a definition.

as a group, we see

This highlights a shared perspective or collective agreement on a definition.

it is our contention

This suggests a debated or argued point influencing a definition.

FAQs

How can I use "we define" in a sentence?

You can use "we define" to introduce a specific meaning or interpretation of a term. For example, "We define success as achieving personal fulfillment and contributing to society".

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

A more formal alternative could be "we stipulate", which is often used in legal or technical contexts to introduce a precise definition.

Is it correct to use "we define" in academic writing?

Yes, "we define" is acceptable in academic writing when introducing a definition that is central to your argument or analysis. It helps to establish clarity and avoid ambiguity.

How does "we define" differ from "by definition"?

"We define" introduces a specific definition that you are establishing, whereas "by definition" refers to something that is inherently true based on an already established definition.