a definitive list

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a definitive list" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a complete and authoritative enumeration of items or information on a specific topic. Example: "The report includes a definitive list of all the resources needed for the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"New York City 400 is definitely not a definitive list," Ms. Jones said.

The New York Times

A definitive list of Predrag's references, however, is appended.

Chemical Engineering and Processing: Process Intensification

As ever, this is not a definitive list.

The Guardian - Sport

So we asked the F.A.A. to give us a definitive list of approved items".

The New York Times

It's certainly not a definitive list; please add your suggestions in the comments section.

The Guardian

After much considered debate, we present you a definitive list of best cats, according to us.

Britannica

This map is based on historical population estimates from four different researchers, and is not a definitive list.

The Guardian

And so the idea for a book of records was born, a definitive list of the world's superlatives.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This is by no means a definitive list, and every longtime wine drinker will be able to suggest others.

The Washington Post

Guardian Unlimited Politics has compiled a definitive list of Britain's top 50 most influential people who are not elected.

The Guardian

Below we've compiled a definitive list of some of Hartley's worst offences; click on the gallery to see the list.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When creating "a definitive list", ensure that your criteria for inclusion are clear and consistently applied to avoid accusations of bias or incompleteness.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a definitive list" must be exhaustive. A definitive list can be selective, representing the most important or relevant items, rather than every possible item.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a definitive list" functions as a noun phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it refers to a complete and authoritative enumeration of items or information on a specific topic. The examples in Ludwig show it used to present lists of various kinds, from best cats to worst offenses.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

21%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a definitive list" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase that implies completeness and authoritativeness. Ludwig AI suggests that it’s suitable for various contexts, particularly news and media, science, and encyclopedias. When using this phrase, ensure clarity and consistent criteria for inclusion. Ludwig also provides alternatives like "a comprehensive inventory" or "an exhaustive catalog" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a comprehensive inventory

Replaces "list" with "inventory", implying a detailed and complete record.

an exhaustive catalog

Replaces "list" with "catalog", suggesting a systematic and detailed compilation; "exhaustive" emphasizes completeness.

a complete enumeration

Uses "enumeration" to highlight the act of counting and listing items fully.

a conclusive record

Shifts focus to the finality and authoritativeness of the list, emphasizing its reliability.

a detailed compendium

Implies a collection of detailed information, more extensive than a simple list.

an authoritative index

Highlights the reliability and expertise behind the list's creation.

a thorough register

Emphasizes the meticulous nature of the list, implying careful documentation.

a final specification

Focuses on the list as a set of precise requirements or characteristics.

a precise tabulation

Replaces "list" with a more formal term, "tabulation", and suggests a structured arrangement of data.

an exact detailing

Emphasizes the accuracy and thoroughness with which the information is presented.

FAQs

How to use "a definitive list" in a sentence?

You can use "a definitive list" to refer to a complete and authoritative enumeration of items or information. For example, "The guide provides "a definitive list" of approved vendors."

What can I say instead of "a definitive list"?

You can use alternatives like "a comprehensive inventory", "an exhaustive catalog", or "a complete enumeration" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a definitive list" or "an un definitive list"?

"A definitive list" is the correct and standard usage. "An un definitive list" is grammatically incorrect because "definitive" starts with a consonant sound.

What's the difference between "a definitive list" and "a tentative list"?

"A definitive list" implies completeness, authoritativeness and finality, whereas "a tentative list" is provisional and subject to change.