well-defined

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "well-defined" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation or concept in which the boundaries are clear, distinct, and without ambiguity. For example, "The company's success is due to its well-defined mission and objectives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

Corralling this chaos requires well-defined roles.

The New York Times

We had a great starting point: characters were well-defined with well-defined relationships".

The New York Times - Tech

"You start with a well-defined state, and you end with a well-defined state.

The New Yorker

"Islands have discrete and well-defined boundaries," Ms. Joiner said.

The New York Times - Style

The bass is well-defined, and the treble is clear.

The Guardian - Tech

Democrats, fortunately, have a less well-defined profile.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

This crucial term is not well defined.

The New York Times - Magazine

"You need to be sure, well defined.

The New York Times

Moreover, the genome is more well defined.

The New York Times

I like things to be clear, well defined.

The Guardian - Sport

For these reasons, the KPZ equation was not well defined.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "well-defined", ensure that the context provides sufficient information for the reader to understand the specific parameters or characteristics that make something "well-defined". Vague usage can diminish the phrase's impact.

Common error

Avoid using "well-defined" in overly abstract or philosophical discussions where concrete parameters are difficult to establish. This can lead to confusion and weaken the clarity you're aiming for. Instead, consider more nuanced terms like "coherent" or "articulated" depending on the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "well-defined" primarily functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to indicate clarity, precision, and lack of ambiguity. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted in English. Ludwig examples show its use across various domains.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

35%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "well-defined" is a commonly used adjective to describe something that is clear, precise, and unambiguous. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and applicability across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and technical writing. To maximize clarity, ensure the context provides sufficient information regarding the parameters that make something "well-defined". While versatile, avoid overuse in abstract contexts where concrete parameters are lacking. Consider alternatives like "clearly defined" or "precisely defined" depending on the intended nuance. Ludwig's examples highlight its effectiveness in setting clear expectations and reducing potential misunderstandings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clearly delineated

Emphasizes distinct boundaries or outlines.

precisely defined

Highlights accuracy and exactness in definition.

accurately specified

Focuses on the correctness and detail of the specification.

distinctly outlined

Stresses the clarity and sharpness of the outline.

unambiguously stated

Highlights the absence of ambiguity in the statement.

explicitly formulated

Focuses on the clarity and directness of the formulation.

clearly established

Indicates something is firmly set and understood.

sharply defined

Emphasizes the sharpness and precision of the definition.

definitively described

Suggests a conclusive and authoritative description.

circumscribed

Indicates that something is limited or restricted in scope.

FAQs

What does "well-defined" mean?

"Well-defined" means clearly and accurately described or specified, without ambiguity.

How can I use "well-defined" in a sentence?

You can use "well-defined" to describe boundaries, goals, roles, or characteristics that are clear and distinct. For example: "The project has "well-defined goals".".

What are some alternatives to "well-defined"?

Alternatives include "clearly defined", "precisely defined", or "accurately specified", depending on the context.

Is it better to use "well-defined" or "clearly defined"?

Both "well-defined" and "clearly defined" are acceptable. "Well-defined" often implies a higher degree of precision or formal specification, while "clearly defined" is more general.