by definition
by definition
According to the literal definition or widely known understanding of something. You know, illegal activities by definition break the law. I always thought that singers were outgoing by definition—until I saw how shy you are off-stage.
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Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2022 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
by definition
According to prior determination, as a given. For example, This antibiotic is by definition the most effective now on the market. [1970s]
See also: by
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.