To define is to establish the precise meaning and scope of a concept.
Mot en 30 secondes
- To clarify the exact meaning of a term or concept.
- Used to establish boundaries or criteria for a subject.
- Commonly found in academic, legal, and formal writing.
一般的な文脈:主に学術論文、法律文書、技術仕様書など、正確性が求められる場面で多用されます。日常生活では「成功とは何かを自分なりに定義する」といった、抽象的な概念を語る際にも使われます。
- 1類語との比較:「説明する」は対象を分かりやすく伝えることに重点がありますが、「定義する」は「それが何であり、何ではないか」を論理的に切り分けることに重点があります。また、「規定する」はルールや法律として決めるという強制的な意味合いが強いため、学術的な定義とは使い分けが必要です。
Exemples
成功をどう定義するかは人によって異なる。
everydayHow one defines success varies from person to person.
本稿では、この現象を「社会的不適応」と定義する。
formalIn this paper, we define this phenomenon as 'social maladjustment'.
AIを広義に定義すれば、計算機も含まれる。
informalIf you define AI broadly, it includes calculators.
法律上、この行為は犯罪と定義されている。
academicLegally, this act is defined as a crime.
Collocations courantes
Phrases Courantes
定義通り
as defined
再定義する
to redefine
定義づけ
definition/characterization
Souvent confondu avec
Refers to setting rules or laws. It is more about regulation than just explaining meaning.
Focuses on providing details or understanding. It is broader and less restrictive than defining.
Modèles grammaticaux
How to Use It
Notes d'usage
This verb is primarily used in formal, academic, or professional contexts. It implies a high level of precision and logical structure. Avoid using it in casual settings where simple explanations are sufficient.
Erreurs courantes
Learners often use it interchangeably with 'setsumei suru' (to explain). Remember that 'teigi suru' is for establishing a specific, limited meaning. Also, ensure the particle 'to' is used correctly when defining something as something else.
Tips
Use in formal discussions
Use this verb when you need to set the stage for an argument. It helps avoid ambiguity by establishing a clear baseline.
Avoid overusing in casual speech
Using 'teigi suru' in casual conversation can sound overly academic or stiff. Prefer 'tsumari' or 'imi wa' for casual talk.
Academic rigor in Japan
In Japanese academic culture, defining terms clearly is considered essential for valid research. It reflects a high value on precision.
Origine du mot
The word is composed of 'tei' (to fix/determine) and 'gi' (meaning). It originated from the translation of Western academic concepts into Japanese during the Meiji era.
Contexte culturel
In Japanese society, clear definitions are highly valued in business meetings and academic research to avoid ambiguity. It reflects the culture's preference for shared understanding and clear expectations.
Astuce mémo
Think of 'teigi' as a 'te-i' (fixed) 'gi' (meaning). Like putting a fence around a word so no one can misunderstand it.
Questions fréquentes
4 questions「説明する」は相手に分かりやすく伝えることが目的ですが、「定義する」は言葉の意味を厳密に限定することが目的です。定義は、論理的な議論の前提として使われます。
使えますが、少し硬い響きがあるため、ビジネスや深い議論の場に適しています。日常的な話題なら「〜という意味だ」と言い換える方が自然です。
はい、非常によく使われます。特に専門用語や学術的な概念を説明する際、「AはBであると定義される」という形式で頻出します。
はい。「定義づけ」「定義し直す」「定義を明確にする」といった表現がよく使われます。
Teste-toi
この法律では、過失を「注意義務を怠ること」と___。
特定の言葉の意味を定めているため「定義した」が最適です。
次のうち、最も自然な文はどれですか?
動詞を名詞化するために「こと」が必要です。
(専門用語 / として / この言葉を / 定義する)
目的語が先に来るのが標準的な語順です。
Score : /3
Summary
To define is to establish the precise meaning and scope of a concept.
- To clarify the exact meaning of a term or concept.
- Used to establish boundaries or criteria for a subject.
- Commonly found in academic, legal, and formal writing.
Use in formal discussions
Use this verb when you need to set the stage for an argument. It helps avoid ambiguity by establishing a clear baseline.
Avoid overusing in casual speech
Using 'teigi suru' in casual conversation can sound overly academic or stiff. Prefer 'tsumari' or 'imi wa' for casual talk.
Academic rigor in Japan
In Japanese academic culture, defining terms clearly is considered essential for valid research. It reflects a high value on precision.
Exemples
4 sur 4成功をどう定義するかは人によって異なる。
How one defines success varies from person to person.
本稿では、この現象を「社会的不適応」と定義する。
In this paper, we define this phenomenon as 'social maladjustment'.
AIを広義に定義すれば、計算機も含まれる。
If you define AI broadly, it includes calculators.
法律上、この行為は犯罪と定義されている。
Legally, this act is defined as a crime.
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Ce mot dans d'autres langues
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絶対的に
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抽象的だ
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抽象
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抽象的に
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学術的な
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学術的だ
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学術的
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学術
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学力
B1Academic ability; a person's level of knowledge and skill in academic subjects.