define
A precise statement or explanation of the meaning, nature, or scope of a word, concept, or thing. It is also used to describe the degree of clarity and detail in an image or sound.
Examples
3 of 5By definition, a square must have four equal sides and four right angles.
Because of its inherent nature, a square is required to have four equal sides and four right angles.
The legal definition of 'privacy' has evolved significantly with the rise of digital surveillance.
The way the law explains the concept of privacy has changed a lot because of electronic monitoring.
I'm not sure what your definition of 'fun' is, but sitting in traffic isn't mine.
I don't know what you consider to be fun, but I don't think being stuck in traffic counts.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of a 'definition' as a 'de-fence' (fence) around a word that marks exactly where its meaning starts and ends.
Quick Quiz
The ______ of success is highly subjective and varies from one individual to another.
Correct!
The correct answer is: definition
Examples
By definition, a square must have four equal sides and four right angles.
everydayBecause of its inherent nature, a square is required to have four equal sides and four right angles.
The legal definition of 'privacy' has evolved significantly with the rise of digital surveillance.
formalThe way the law explains the concept of privacy has changed a lot because of electronic monitoring.
I'm not sure what your definition of 'fun' is, but sitting in traffic isn't mine.
informalI don't know what you consider to be fun, but I don't think being stuck in traffic counts.
In this research paper, we provide a working definition of 'socio-economic status' to standardize our data analysis.
academicThis academic document uses a specific, temporary explanation of social and economic standing to make the data consistent.
We need to reach a consensus on the definition of our target market before launching the campaign.
businessWe must all agree on exactly who our intended customers are before we start the advertisement project.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
by definition
by its very nature or intrinsic qualities
matter of definition
a situation where the outcome depends on how one chooses to describe the terms
lack of definition
a state of being unclear, fuzzy, or poorly described
Often Confused With
A description details what something looks or acts like, whereas a definition identifies its essential, fundamental nature.
Usage Notes
In C1 academic writing, 'definition' is often used to establish the 'scope' of an argument. It is a countable noun, so you can have 'multiple definitions' for a single word.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use the verb 'define' where the noun 'definition' is required, such as saying 'What is the define of this word?' instead of 'What is the definition?'.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'definition' as a 'de-fence' (fence) around a word that marks exactly where its meaning starts and ends.
Word Origin
From the Latin 'definitio', meaning 'a limiting' or 'a bounding', derived from 'definire' (to set bounds).
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In Western academic and legal traditions, providing precise definitions is considered the essential first step of any logical or persuasive argument.
Quick Quiz
The ______ of success is highly subjective and varies from one individual to another.
Correct!
The correct answer is: definition
Related Grammar Rules
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
you
A1Used to refer to the person or people that the speaker is addressing. It is the second-person pronoun used for both singular and plural subjects and objects.
people
A1People refers to a group of human beings or the general public. It is the standard plural form of the word 'person'.
put
A1To move something into a particular place or position. It is a fundamental verb used to describe the act of placing an object or setting a situation in a specific location.
mean
A1To have a specific sense or significance, especially when explaining a word or sign. It can also describe a person's intention or the importance of something to someone.
keep
A1To continue to have or hold something in your possession or at your disposal. It also means to remain in a specific state, condition, or position without changing.
begin
A1To start doing something or for an event to happen for the first time. It is often used to describe the first point of a process or activity.
seem
A1To give the impression of being something or having a particular quality based on what you see or hear. It is used to describe an appearance or feeling that may or may not be the actual truth.
help
A1To make it easier for someone to do something by offering your services, resources, or support. It can involve physical effort, providing information, or giving money to assist a person or a cause.
talk
A1To speak in order to give information or express ideas, feelings, or thoughts. It typically involves a conversation between two or more people or a person addressing an audience.
start
A1To begin doing something or to cause something to happen for the first time. It is frequently used when talking about movements, journeys, or making a machine or engine begin to work.
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