B1verb1K

Define

UK /["/dɪˈfaɪn/","/dɪˈfaɪnz/","/dɪˈfaɪnd/","/dɪˈfaɪnɪŋ/"]/US /["/dɪˈfaɪn/","/dɪˈfaɪnz/","/dɪˈfaɪnd/","/dɪˈfaɪnɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to say or explain what the meaning of a word or phrase is

In simple words: To explain the meaning of a word or idea.

Examples

Can you define the term 'photosynthesis' for us?
It's important to define your goals clearly before starting any project.
In this class, we will define the key concepts of modern art.
The dictionary will help you define unfamiliar words.
Many people struggle to define success in their lives.
We often define beauty in different ways depending on culture.
To define a problem accurately, you need to gather all the facts.
He couldn't define why he felt that way about the situation.

Usage notes

Use 'define' when you want to explain something clearly. It's suitable for academic and casual contexts, but avoid using it in very informal settings.

Grammar pattern

define + object

Memory hint

Think of 'define' as 'de-fine' — you're putting a sharper limit on what something means.

Collocations

accurately
carefully
correctly
be difficult to
be impossible to
be easy to
as
by
in terms of
accurately
carefully
correctly
be difficult to
be impossible to
be easy to
as
by
in terms of

Synonyms

explain
describe
clarify
determine
specify

Antonyms

confuse
misinterpret

Common mistakes

Confused with 'defy' which means to resist or challenge.
Using 'define' without an object, e.g., saying 'define' alone.
Incorrectly spelled as 'defin' or 'defene'.