By definition means because of what the word itself means: a triangle has three sides by definition. It often stresses that something is unavoidable: a volunteer is, by definition, unpaid; that's what makes them a volunteer. If something is just common, say usually or in general.
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by definition, ...; be, by definition, ...; ... by definition
- A triangle has three sides by definition.
- An optional workshop is, by definition, one you do not have to attend.
- By definition, a handwritten note is written by hand rather than typed.
What changed
First versionAn optional task is, by the definition, not compulsory.
RevisionAn optional task is, by definition, not compulsory.
The article looks like a safe addition: by the definition. But the fixed phrase has none. By the definition sounds as if you mean one particular wording, from a dictionary or a contract.
In general allows exceptions: students in general prefer short tests. By definition allows none, because the quality is built into the idea itself: a student is, by definition, someone who studies. If exceptions are possible, by definition is an overstatement.
Your turn
The point follows from what the word means: A volunteer, by ___, works without pay.
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definition — The fixed phrase by definition has no article. The definition would point to a specific wording that you still have to name.
Name a familiar idea, such as a holiday, a deadline or a neighbour, and a quality it can't exist without. Use by definition.
A reusable container can, by definition, be used more than once.
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