a definite no

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a definite no" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that a certain request or idea has been denied or rejected. For example, "I asked my boss for a raise, and he gave me a definite no."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Later, I became a definite no, when I began attending disability rights activities for young people.

Huffington Post

"He emailed back saying he was sorry, he couldn't give a definite no," Megahey recounted.

The Guardian

"The answer is a definite no," wrote David Fulghum, one of the reporters who wrote the article cited at the top of this post.

The New York Times

That's a definite no.

The New York Times

She answers with a definite "no".

The New York Times

His answer was a definite no.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

Without overreacting -- a definite no-no -- proceed openly, though with caution, and ask for more of what your child is imagining is going on.

Huffington Post

"Well, Fs and Cs are a definite no-go".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"Keeping your doors unlocked is a definite no-no".

The New York Times

Extramarital physical intimacy is a definite no-no.

The New York Times

Angry protest – let alone peaceful civil disobedience – is a definite no-no.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a definite no" to clearly and directly communicate rejection or refusal, avoiding ambiguity. It's suitable when you want to be firm and leave no room for misinterpretation.

Common error

While "a definite no" is acceptable in many situations, avoid overusing it in highly formal or professional communications. In such contexts, consider alternatives like "the request cannot be approved at this time" for a more diplomatic tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a definite no" is to serve as a noun phrase expressing a firm and unequivocal denial or refusal. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and usable phrase in written English. Examples in Ludwig illustrate its use in various contexts to clearly communicate rejection.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Wiki

20%

Huffington Post

12%

Less common in

Science

4%

The Guardian - TV & Radio

2%

The New York Times - Sports

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a definite no" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express a clear and unequivocal rejection. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability. Its primary function is to reject a proposal, request, or idea, leaving no room for ambiguity. While generally neutral in register, its usage varies from informal to professional contexts. As shown in Ludwig's examples, it appears frequently in news media and general-interest articles, indicating broad acceptance. While useful, consider alternative phrases in formal settings for a more diplomatic tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

absolutely not

A more emphatic way of saying no.

certainly not

Implies a strong conviction against something.

by no means

Indicates that something is not possible or true.

not at all

A straightforward and clear refusal.

out of the question

Suggests something is not worth considering.

no way

An informal but firm way to say no.

definitely not happening

Emphasizes the impossibility of an event.

a firm rejection

Highlights the act of refusing something.

flat denial

Emphasizes the directness and decisiveness of the refusal.

unequivocal refusal

Shows there's no room for doubt or negotiation.

FAQs

How can I use "a definite no" in a sentence?

You can use "a definite no" to express a firm rejection or denial. For example, "When I asked for a promotion, I received "a definite no" from my manager."

What are some alternatives to saying "a definite no"?

Alternatives include phrases like "absolutely not", "certainly not", or "out of the question", depending on the level of formality required.

Is "a definite no" appropriate for professional communication?

While acceptable, consider more formal alternatives in certain professional contexts. Instead of "a definite no", you might say "the proposal is not feasible at this time" or "we are unable to approve that request".

What's the difference between "a definite no" and "maybe no"?

"A definite no" indicates a clear and final rejection, while "maybe no" suggests there's still a possibility, however slight, that the answer could change in the future.