what defines

USAGE SUMMARY

"what defines" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used as a question to ask for the specific qualities or characteristics that define something or someone. Example: What defines a successful leader? Is it their charisma, intelligence, or ability to inspire others?.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What defines you?

The New York Times - Sports

What defines economics?

The Economist

What defines a neighborhood?

The New York Times

What defines a "language"?

The New York Times

What defines community?

The New York Times

So what defines gender?

The Guardian - Music

But what defines rich?

The New York Times

Also, what defines success?

The Guardian

That is what defines her.

The New Yorker

What defines an "establishment" Republican?

The New York Times

That's what defines the Bronx.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "what defines" when seeking a concise and comprehensive understanding of something's essential nature. For example, "What defines a great leader?"

Common error

Avoid using "what defines" when you only need a description of typical features. "What characterizes" may be more appropriate if you don't need a strict, essential definition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what defines" functions as an interrogative phrase used to solicit a definition or essential characteristics of a subject. It prompts a response that clarifies the fundamental nature or criteria that constitute a particular concept or entity, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "what defines" serves as a fundamental tool for inquiry, prompting a deeper understanding of the essential qualities that characterize a given subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used. Predominantly found in news and media, scientific discussions, and encyclopedic entries, it seeks concise and comprehensive definitions. While "what defines" is often interchangeable with phrases like "what characterizes" or "what distinguishes", it's crucial to ensure that the context necessitates a strict definition rather than a mere description. Mastering the nuance of "what defines" enhances clarity and precision in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what characterizes

Focuses on the typical or distinctive features rather than a strict definition.

what distinguishes

Emphasizes the unique aspects that set something apart from others.

what differentiates

Highlights the differences between two or more things.

what identifies

Concentrates on the attributes that establish the identity of something.

what determines

Focuses on the factors that decide or control what something is.

what specifies

Emphasizes the details or conditions that define something.

what delineates

Highlights the boundaries or limits that define something.

what denotes

Focuses on what a term or symbol represents or signifies.

how would you describe

Asks for a descriptive account instead of a formal definition.

what are the key attributes of

Directs the response towards the essential qualities of something.

FAQs

How can I use "what defines" in a sentence?

Use "what defines" to ask about the essential characteristics or qualities of something. For example, "What defines a good friendship?" or "What defines success in this field?"

What can I say instead of "what defines"?

You can use alternatives like "what characterizes", "what distinguishes", or "what identifies" depending on the context.

Is it better to ask "what defines" or "how would you describe"?

"What defines" seeks a concise, essential definition. "How would you describe" asks for a more detailed, descriptive account. The best choice depends on the level of detail you need.

What's the difference between "what defines" and "what determines"?

"What defines" seeks the inherent qualities of something. "What determines" focuses on the factors that cause something to be a certain way. For example, "What defines a nation?" versus "What determines a nation's success?"