Word
defining
Phoneticsdefin·ing
US/dɪˈfaɪnɪŋ/
UK/dɪfˈaɪnɪŋ/
Definitions
01essential or characteristic
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. describing the most important feature that makes something what it is.
adj. serving to define or distinguish the essential nature of a person, group, or period.
“The invention of the smartphone was a defining moment for modern technology.”
“The architect's use of sustainable materials became the defining characteristic of her later work, setting her apart from her contemporaries.”
Usage
Usually placed before the noun it describes.
Antonyms
02explaining or setting limits
B2 · Upper Intermediate
v. the act of explaining what a word means or deciding the limits of something.
v. the present participle of 'define', referring to the act of stating a precise meaning or establishing boundaries.
“The committee is still defining the rules for the new competition.”
“By clearly defining the scope of the project at the outset, the manager successfully avoided the common trap of scope creep during the implementation phase.”
Synonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “defining” in context.
Real-World Examples
“The defining British stars of recent years – PinkPantheress, Raye, Lola Young – have all been, in some part, forged in the fires of TikTok.” “The goal was to keep one rough week from defining a semester.” Word family
VERB
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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