"defined as" vs "defined by"

Question

"defined as" vs "defined by"

Both 'defined by' and 'defined as' are correct and commonly used in English. They are interchangeable in many contexts, but 'defined by' is often used when emphasizing the agent or factor responsible for the definition, while 'defined as' is more neutral and straightforward.

Last Updated: March 31, 2024

This phrase is used to provide a straightforward and neutral definition of something.

Examples:

A square is defined as a four-sided polygon with equal sides and angles.
Success can be defined as achieving one's goals.

Alternatives:

referred to as
known as
termed as
described as
considered as

This phrase is used to indicate the agent or factor responsible for the definition of something.

Examples:

The success of a team is defined by the dedication of its members.
The culture of a country is often defined by its traditions and values.

Alternatives:

characterized by
determined by
shaped by
identified by
described by

Answer 1

defined as

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

defined by

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"defined as" vs "defined by"

defined as

defined by

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