define
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define (something) as (something)
To describe, designate, or label something as something. Oh, Molly's not coming to the parade because she defines these kind of events as chaotic and overwhelming.
See also: define
defining moment
1. A point in time at which some essential trait or aspect of someone's or something's character or nature is made apparent. Having to confront my boss was a defining moment for me—it was when I realized that I was so much stronger and more capable than I had been trained to believe. This will prove to be a defining moment in the political party's identity. Either they uphold their core ideologies, or they embrace the more extreme views that have been gaining mainstream popularity.
2. A point in time at which the future of someone or something is defined or decided. The release of their incredibly popular MyPhone was a defining moment for the company, turning them almost overnight into a major corporate juggernaut. I had always gotten good grades in school, but receiving the special award for my research project became a defining moment in my academic career.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2022 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
define something as something
to label something as being something. I define that kind of behavior as just plain rude! We have to define that comment as careless and unthinking.
See also: define
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.