definite

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "definite" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that is clearly defined or certain. Example: "The answer to the question is definite; there is no room for doubt."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The connection, in other words, seemed likely but not definite.

The Guardian

I would definitely rate Dangerous Girls 5* as it is a great addition to anyone's bookcase and a definite keeper.

The Guardian

Back in the opinion room, ITV's link woman Nina Hossain was struggling to fill the time before anything definite could be said.

The Guardian

From Daniel Day Lewis in My Left Foot to Dustin Hoffman in Rain Man, the ability to play "disability" is a definite asset for an actor, a source of genuine acclaim.

The Guardian - Opinion

A 21-year-old man was detained by officers on Wednesday and police said they were "following a definite line of enquiry".

The Guardian

Shpendim Nadzaku, the imam for the Islamic Association of North Texas, told the Guardian last month that since taking up his role last June, he had seen a definite "increase of very open vitriolic language towards Muslims in general".

The Guardian

Three of the four most conservative votes on the court were notably hostile to the federal government's arguments, and the fourth (Clarence Thomas, who almost never speaks at oral argument) is as mentioned an almost definite vote to rule the ACA's individual mandate unconstitutional.

The Guardian - Opinion

When I was a teenager in the early 90s, there was a definite trend adopted by a specific type of hippy student I dated, who told themselves and those around them that hair was "self-cleaning".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Some people might need a definite amount of infinite time, while others might need an infinite amount of definite time.

The Guardian

And the ending - well, there isn't really an ending; instead of a definite closure, the reader is left with a sense of a vague and gloomy continuum, as the protagonist Moses Aloetta stands before the Thames contemplating his future, staring into the signature London fog that is the novel's dominant motif.

The Guardian - Books

If it's a definite yes you're not going hard enough, if it's a no, you've overcooked it".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "definite" when you want to convey a sense of clarity and certainty, ensuring there is no room for ambiguity. For example, "We need a definite answer by tomorrow."

Common error

Avoid using "definite" excessively in casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler words like "sure" or "certain" might be more appropriate. Overuse can make your language sound stilted.

Linguistic Context

The word "definite" primarily functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to indicate something is clearly defined, certain, or free from doubt. Ludwig examples show its usage in contexts requiring clarity and assurance, consistent with its adjectival role.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "definite" functions as an adjective used to express clarity and certainty. As Ludwig AI confirms, the term is grammatically correct and widely applicable. It appears most frequently in news and media, formal business, and science contexts. When writing, use "definite" to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity. However, be mindful of overuse in informal settings, where simpler alternatives might be more suitable. Remember also the difference between "definite" and "definitive": the first is clear and the second is final.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

certain

Indicates a stronger sense of assurance and lack of doubt.

unquestionable

Emphasizes the indisputable nature of something.

indisputable

Highlights the inability to argue against something.

assured

Implies a confident expectation or guarantee.

conclusive

Refers to something that settles a matter decisively.

fixed

Suggests something is firmly established and unchangeable.

established

Indicates something is well-recognized and proven.

decided

Implies a clear and firm resolution.

clear-cut

Emphasizes the lack of ambiguity or complexity.

unequivocal

Highlights the unambiguous and direct nature of something.

FAQs

How can I use "definite" in a sentence?

You can use "definite" to describe something that is certain or clearly defined. For instance, "We need a "definite plan" before proceeding." or "Is that a "definite yes"?"

What are some synonyms for "definite"?

Alternatives to "definite" include "certain", "unquestionable", "indisputable", and "conclusive". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a definite" or "the definite"?

The choice between "a definite" and "the definite" depends on the context. "A definite" is used to introduce a specific but not yet identified instance, while "the definite" refers to something already known or uniquely identified. For example: "He gave a "definite answer"." vs "The "definite article" is 'the' in English."

What is the difference between "definite" and "definitive"?

"Definite" means clear and certain, while "definitive" means authoritative and final. "Definite" refers to something without doubt or ambiguity, such as a "definite answer". "Definitive", on the other hand, indicates something that is the best of its kind or provides a final resolution, like a "definitive guide".