definition
Very HighFormal to Neutral
Definition
Meaning
A statement of the exact meaning of a word, phrase, or concept; the precise explanation or description of something.
The degree of distinctness or clarity of an image, outline, or concept (e.g., high-definition). The action of making something clear, distinct, or definite.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily a noun, but can be part of compounds (e.g., self-definition). The concept is foundational to logic, lexicography, and communication. The 'clarity' sense is a metaphorical extension from the core meaning.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No major differences in meaning or usage. Spelling in derived forms may follow regional patterns (e.g., 'definable' in both, but US tends to favor 'definable' over 'defineable').
Connotations
Identical core connotations. In technical contexts, 'HD' (high-definition) is universal.
Frequency
Equally high-frequency and fundamental in both varieties.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
the definition of [NOUN PHRASE]a definition for [NOUN PHRASE]by definition [CLAUSE]to give/provide/offer a definitionto fit/meet the definition ofVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “by definition (necessarily)”
- “a definition in itself (an archetypal example)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used in contracts, specifications, and policy documents to set precise parameters (e.g., 'the definition of a full-time employee').
Academic
Fundamental in papers and theses for establishing the scope and meaning of key terms.
Everyday
Common in discussions, arguments, and learning contexts (e.g., 'What's your definition of success?').
Technical
Crucial in programming (function definitions), mathematics, law, and standards (e.g., 'high-definition video').
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The committee sought to define the project's scope more clearly.
- How would you define success in this role?
American English
- The law clearly defines the rights of tenants.
- We need to define our goals before we proceed.
adverb
British English
- The concept was definably different from the original.
- The edges of the image were not definably sharp.
American English
- The two approaches are definably distinct.
- The rules were not definably outlined.
adjective
British English
- The definable characteristics of the species were listed.
- There was a clear and well-defined process in place.
American English
- The term has a legally definable meaning.
- The team followed a well-defined protocol.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- Look up the definition of the word in the dictionary.
- The teacher wrote the definition on the board.
- Can you give me a simple definition of this technical term?
- The legal definition of 'theft' is quite specific.
- The project's success hinges on a clear definition of its objectives.
- By definition, a square has four equal sides.
- Philosophers have debated the definition of consciousness for centuries.
- The treaty provided a narrow definition of permissible military action.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'DEFINE' as setting the FINal, FINished boundaries of a word's meaning. DEFINition is the result of that action.
Conceptual Metaphor
DEFINITION IS A BOUNDARY / CONTAINER (e.g., 'within the definition', 'outside the definition'). DEFINITION IS CLARITY (e.g., 'high-definition').
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid translating as 'определение' in all contexts. The Russian word covers 'definition', 'determination', and 'identification'. Use 'definition' only for explaining meaning.
- Do not use 'definition' to mean 'decision' or 'resolution' as 'определение' might in legal Russian.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing 'definition' (meaning) with 'definiteness' (certainty).
- Using 'definition' as a verb (incorrect: *'Can you definition this?' Correct: 'Can you define this?').
- Misspelling as 'defination'.
Practice
Quiz
In which sentence is 'definition' used in its 'clarity of outline' sense?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While its primary use is for words and concepts, it is also used for the clarity of images/sound (HD) and the act of making something definite.
'Meaning' is broader, referring to what is intended to be expressed. A 'definition' is a formal, explicit statement of that meaning.
No. The verb form is 'define'. 'Definition' is solely a noun.
It means 'necessarily' or 'as a logical consequence of the definition'. (e.g., 'A vegan, by definition, does not eat animal products.')
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