Academic / B1

di-FYN/dɪˈfaɪn/

To define is to say exactly what a word or idea means: define your terms; a defined role. Definition is the noun (already in the dictionary). Explain is wider. Do not start every essay with a dictionary define unless the question asks. Maths: define x as…

Meaning

To say exactly what a word or idea means; also to show the limits of something.

Examples

• “Define your terms in the first paragraph of the essay.”
• “The contract defines overtime as anything after 37 hours.”

Good to know

define a term / a role. Noun: definition. Wider: explain. Essay: define your terms. Maths: define x as.

Topics

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