define

/di'fain/

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Explanation of the Word "Define"

Part of Speech: Verb

Usage Instructions

1. When to Use: You can use "define" when you want to explain a concept, describe the attributes of something, or clarify the meaning of a word.
2. How to Use: It is often followed by the word or concept you are explaining. For example: “Can you define ‘happiness’?”

Examples

1. Basic Usage: "The teacher asked us to define the word 'friendship.'"
2. Advanced Usage: "In our discussion, we need to define the parameters of our research project."

Word Variants

• Definition (noun): The meaning of a word or phrase. Example: "The definition of 'love' can vary from person to person."
• Definable (adjective): Something that can be defined. Example: "The goals for the project are definable and measurable."

Different Meanings

1. In Mathematics or Science: To state the limits or characteristics of a variable or function. For example: "In calculus, you must define the variables before solving the equation."
2. In Art or Design: To clearly show the form or outline of something. Example: "The shadows defined the shapes of the sculptures."

Synonyms

• Explain
• Describe
• Specify
• Determine
• Clarify

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

• Define oneself: To establish one's identity or reputation in a certain way. Example: "He wants to define himself as an artist."
• Define the terms: To clarify the conditions or limits of an agreement or discussion. Example: "Before we start, let’s define the terms of our collaboration."

Summary

To "define" means to explain or describe something clearly. You can use it in various contexts, such as defining a word, setting boundaries in a project, or clarifying concepts in discussions.

Academic

Verb

1. decide upon or fix definitely
   • fix the variables
   • specify the parameters
2. show the form or outline of
   • The tree was clearly defined by the light
   • The camera could define the smallest object
3. determine the nature of
   • What defines a good wine?
4. give a definition for the meaning of a word
   • Define `sadness'
5. determine the essential quality of

Synonyms

• specify
• set
• determine
• fix
• limit
• delineate
• delimit
• delimitate