There is considerable disagreement about what harmful behaviors should be included in a definition of nonlethal violence against women in intimate heterosexual relationships. Many researchers limit their focus to physical and/or sexual assaults, whereas others offer formulations that include a much broader range of injurious acts. This article attempts to describe and evaluate narrow and broad definitions, and provide suggestions for achieving consensus in defining violence against women. For many women--especially those who are battered, psychologically abused or sexually assaulted--a major consideration is whether researchers' definitions are sensitive to their subjective experiences. Surveys that adequately address the complexities of violence against women in a variety of contexts and social settings should include a "preparatory component of qualitative investigation." This involves in-depth interviews with women and men, researchers, friends, family members, shelter workers, and others. Table, notes, references