# Math Help - Definition in maths

1. ## Definition in maths

Hello,

I have a very general dude. Is a definition something that we put because is advisable and it can't be deduced?

2. ## Re: Definition in maths

Originally Posted by Luzu
Hello,

I have a very general dude. Is a definition something that we put because is advisable and it can't be deduced?

Define (verb), Definite (adjective), Definition (noun):
from Latin de (q.v.), a preposition with many mean-
ings, both physical and abstract, and finis "end,
boundary, border," of unknown prior origin. When
you define something you "put boundaries around"
what it can mean. A good definition puts an end
to confusion about what a tenn means. In calculus,
a definite integral has numerical limits or "bound-
aries" on it, as opposed to an indefinite integral.

My knowledge of maths is very superficial. I am just a beginner in maths. That was the best explanation I could produce with my mediocre knowledge.

3. ## Re: Definition in maths

In mathematics to "define" something is to explain what that something is in such a way that it can't be interpreted as something else.

For example, we define a unit circle to be "the locus of all points that are exactly one unit away from a single point".

Do you have any confusion about what a unit circle is? No, because we have explained what it is in such a way that nothing else could possibly be a unit circle.

4. ## Re: Definition in maths

Thank you so much.