A concept’s dimensions are ontologically its defining characteristics, not empirically found indicators

Evidence

My approach to concepts and measurement starts with ontology and definitions. Another term for the secondary-level dimensions is “defining or constitutive features or attributes.” As such, figure 2.1 uses dashed equal signs to indicate an ontological relationship between the basic-level concept and its defining characteristics. — Gary Goertz, Social Science Concepts and Measurement, 163

Categorization

• DEFINE: Buttresses ‘secondary-level dimensions’ with the synonyms ‘defining or constitutive features or attributes.’
• XREF: Contrast with latent variable modeling, where indicators are causal effects rather than constitutive parts.