define
verb [ T ] uk/dɪˈfaɪn/ us/dɪˈfaɪn/
(EXPLAIN)
B2 给（尤指单词）下定义;说明，解释
to say what the meaning of something, especially a word, is
In the dictionary, "reality" is defined as "the state of things as they are, rather than as they are imagined to be". 在本词典中，“reality（现实）”被解释为 “the state of things as they are, rather than as they are imagined to be（事物存在的状况，而非其想象中的状态）”。
Before I answer your question, could you define your terms a little more (= explain what you mean by the words you have used)? 在回答你的问题之前，你能不能再解释一下你用词的意思？
See also: well defined
B2 界定;确定;限定
to explain and describe the meaning and exact limits of something
Your rights and responsibilities are defined in the citizens' charter. 你的权利和义务在公民宪章中有明确的界定。
Your role in the project will be strictly defined (= limited to particular areas). 你在这个项目里的任务将有明确的界定。
I'd hate to feel that I was defined by (= that my life got its meaning and importance only from) my job. 我讨厌我的生活中除了工作别无重心。
- More examples
- It is very difficult to define the concept of beauty.
- The borderline between friendship and intimacy is often hard to define.
- Security defined in the broadest sense of the term means getting at the root causes of trouble and helping to reduce regional conflicts.
- It's a very hierarchical organization in which everyone's status is clearly defined.
- Responsibility, I suppose, is what defines adulthood.
(CLEARLY SHOW)
显示出…的轮廓；确定…的界线
to show clearly the edge of something
The outline of the castle on the hill was clearly defined against the evening sky. 山上城堡的轮廓在夜色的映衬下显得格外清晰。