a definitive position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a definitive position" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a clear and unambiguous stance or viewpoint on a particular issue or topic. Example: "After much deliberation, the committee reached a definitive position on the proposed policy changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

"We haven't reached a definitive position on this.

The Guardian

Ms. Merkel has not expressed a definitive position on the issue, at least not in public.

The New York Times

We are more likely to assume that the proposal being made to us is a definitive position and so we challenge less.

The Guardian

Ms. Merkel on Friday left open the possibility of a further shift, saying that she had "not as yet come to a definitive position" on the question of arms supplies.

The New York Times

Though closely grilled on the question of whether he would support the president's opposition to cloning and human embryonic stem cell research, Zerhouni managed to avoid making a definitive position statement.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It has also become a politically delicate issue, with some new government officials refusing to release hard statistics on casualties and human rights groups cautious about taking a definitive position.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

A definitive positioning of a single stranded DNA binding site within the A3G C-CDA has also been much debated [28], [29], [34].

Plosone

At the time, Clinton was under rising pressure from progressive activists to take a more definitive position on the trade agreement.

Huffington Post

Hillary Clinton, Sanders' opponent in the Democratic race, announced her opposition to the Trans-Pacific Partnership in October, and promised last Friday not to cut Social Security amid rising pressure from progressive activists to take a more definitive position.

Huffington Post

"But it's not a definitive situation.

The New York Times - Sports

The lack of a coherent, consistent, and definitive position on important public policies have dogged my party for years.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a definitive position", ensure that the context provides enough information for the reader to understand the basis and implications of the position. Clearly articulate the reasons or evidence supporting the stance to enhance credibility.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a definitive position" as an absolute truth when there's room for legitimate disagreement or uncertainty. Acknowledge potential counterarguments or limitations to maintain objectivity and build trust with your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a definitive position" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "definitive" modifies the noun "position". This noun phrase typically acts as the object of a verb (e.g., "take", "express", "reach"). It's used to denote a specific, well-defined stance or opinion, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a definitive position" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe a clear, unambiguous, and firm stance on a particular issue. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in news, science, and formal business contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity in expressing the underlying reasons for your position and avoid presenting it as an irrefutable truth when there's room for debate. Alternatives such as "a clear stance" or "a firm viewpoint" can be used to convey similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clear stance

Emphasizes clarity and openness in the expressed viewpoint.

a firm viewpoint

Highlights the strength and resolution of the opinion.

a settled opinion

Focuses on the finality and lack of further debate on the opinion.

a decided stance

Stresses the decisiveness and resolve behind the position taken.

a resolute position

Implies firmness and determination in maintaining the stance.

a conclusive viewpoint

Highlights the final and indisputable nature of the opinion.

an unambiguous stance

Focuses on the lack of ambiguity or doubt in the expressed position.

a categorical statement

Stresses the absence of conditions or exceptions in the statement.

an unwavering position

Highlights the steadfastness and lack of wavering in the position.

a concrete stance

Emphasizes the tangibility and real-world applicability of the position.

FAQs

What does "a definitive position" mean?

The phrase "a definitive position" refers to a clear, unambiguous, and firm stance or opinion on a particular issue. It indicates a viewpoint that has been thoroughly considered and decided upon.

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

You can use "a definitive position" to describe someone's viewpoint, like: "After careful consideration, the board took "a clear stance" on the matter." or "The company has "a firm viewpoint" regarding environmental regulations".

Which is correct, "a definitive position" or "a definite position"?

Both "a definitive position" and "a definite position" are grammatically correct, but "definitive" implies a more conclusive and authoritative stance than "definite".

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

You can use alternatives like "a clear stance", "a firm viewpoint", or "a settled opinion" depending on the context.