What does a definition query accomplish in ArcGIS Pro?

A definition query is a powerful tool utilized in ArcGIS Pro that enables users to control which features within a layer are displayed in map views. When applied, a definition query allows you to specify a condition or set of conditions that must be met for features to be included in the layer's view. As a result, only a specific subset of features that satisfy the defined criteria will be shown, effectively filtering the visible data.

This capability is especially valuable when working with large datasets, as it allows for a more focused analysis and visualization without changing the underlying data. Users can easily apply and modify these queries to tailor the map representation to their needs, such as showing only certain types of land use or highlighting features that fall within specific attribute ranges.

The other options mentioned do not accurately capture the primary function of a definition query. Filtering layers by scale relates more to symbology and visibility settings rather than the query itself. A definition query does not define queries for all layers but rather targets specific layers individually. Additionally, while querying an attribute table may seem relevant, it does not specifically pertain to grouping layers but to isolating feature visibility based on attributes.