a definite deadline

USAGE SUMMARY

"a definite deadline" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a fixed date by which a task must be completed. For example, "I need to finish this project by a definite deadline of next Friday."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

A definite deadline will get you moving and you will have an appreciative audience for your great work!

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

A senior Iranian official said: We do not see any definite deadline.

The Guardian

But there is no definite deadline at the moment".

The Guardian

"You have to think that when you do an experiment, that it costs money and that there are definite deadlines".

Science Magazine

Experiments are planned well in advance, with definite deadlines and specific goals.

Science Magazine

A hiring manager in a discovery position works with less-definite deadlines and timetables than the person who runs the department charged with, for example, scaling up a biomolecule.

Science Magazine

Until a definite opening date is set, the deadline for starting the reinstallation will remain fluid.

The New York Times - Arts

If it's a race, you have a definite date you're working toward, literally putting a deadline on your training.

WikiHow

That is a definite.

The Guardian

A definite weakness.

The New York Times - Health

It's a definite improvement.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When setting a project timeline, always establish "a definite deadline" to provide clear expectations and encourage timely completion.

Common error

Avoid using vague language when discussing deadlines. Instead of saying "the deadline is soon", specify "a definite deadline" to eliminate ambiguity and promote accountability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a definite deadline" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig shows that it highlights the presence of a specific and non-negotiable target date for completion.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Wiki

18%

Science & Research

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a definite deadline" is a noun phrase used to emphasize the presence of a specific and non-negotiable target date for completing a task. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. While relatively rare, its purpose is to clearly establish a timeframe, fostering a sense of urgency. It's most frequently used in news, media, and wiki contexts, indicating a versatile, neutral formality level. When using the phrase, prioritize clear communication and specificity to ensure the deadline is well-understood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fixed deadline

Replaces "definite" with "fixed", emphasizing the unchangeable nature of the deadline.

a firm deadline

Substitutes "definite" with "firm", highlighting the solidity and lack of flexibility of the deadline.

a specific deadline

Replaces "definite" with "specific", focusing on the clarity and precision of the deadline.

a set deadline

Uses "set" instead of "definite", indicating that the deadline has been established.

an established deadline

Replaces "definite" with "established", emphasizing that the deadline is already in place.

a hard deadline

Uses "hard" instead of "definite", suggesting a strict and inflexible deadline.

a concrete deadline

Replaces "definite" with "concrete", emphasizing the tangibility and certainty of the deadline.

a clear deadline

Substitutes "definite" with "clear", indicating the unambiguous nature of the deadline.

a defined deadline

Replaces "definite" with "defined", highlighting that the deadline has been clearly outlined.

a precise deadline

Uses "precise" instead of "definite", emphasizing the exactness of the deadline.

FAQs

How do you use "a definite deadline" in a sentence?

You can use "a definite deadline" to emphasize the importance of a specific end date for a task. For example, "The project must be completed by "a definite deadline" of December 31st".

What phrases are similar to "a definite deadline"?

Alternatives to "a definite deadline" include "a fixed deadline", "a firm deadline", or "a specific deadline", all indicating a clearly defined end date.

Is it better to have "a definite deadline" or a flexible one?

While flexibility can be useful in some situations, "a definite deadline" provides clarity and encourages timely completion. It depends on the project's nature and the team's working style.

Why is having "a definite deadline" important?

Having "a definite deadline" creates a sense of urgency and accountability, helping to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively, leading to better project outcomes.