definite evidence

USAGE SUMMARY

"definite evidence" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to refer to a fact or piece of information which provides incontrovertible proof or supports an argument or assertion. Example: "The prosecutor presented definite evidence linking the suspect to the crime."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But there is no definite evidence.

Yale University

(Implies there's definite evidence that a crime has been committed).

The New Yorker

"Surely there has to be definite evidence to overturn on-field decision?

The Guardian - Sport

Therefore, definite evidence that irradiated virus-specific T cells preserve functional activity has been missing.

Nature

There is still lack of definite evidence to establish the association between sitagliptin use and acute pancreatitis.

European Journal of Internal Medicine

Eight of the 11 with Alzheimer's had definite evidence of the amyloid protein in tissues other than the brain and two had equivocal evidence.

The New York Times

A neurological report carried out soon afterwards found no definite evidence of brain damage: "LSD made him quite aggressive, which he realises," it said.

The Guardian

Gathered blackberries have been found at Neolithic sites, while a preserved iron age bog body, known as Haraldskaer Woman, provides definite evidence of blackberry ingestion.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But there is definite evidence that soon after Cook's death, that there were pantomimes in Covent Garden in which Cook was deified by the Hawaiians.

University of California, Berkeley

An evangelical Web site that plays down the element of persecution of Catholics in favor of the song as a device to instruct youngsters in "basic teachings of the Faith," concedes that there is no definite evidence for that interpretation, but that there is also no definite evidence against it, either.

The New York Times

Three of five of the patients suffered pulmonary emboli, and a fourth patient had an unexplained electromechanical dissociation cardiac arrest without definite evidence of pulmonary embolus.

American Journal of Kidney Diseases

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "definite evidence", ensure the evidence is indeed irrefutable and leaves no room for reasonable doubt. Overstating the strength of evidence can weaken your argument.

Common error

Avoid presenting evidence as "definite" when it is merely suggestive or circumstantial. Clearly differentiate between strong and weak forms of evidence to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definite evidence" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, indicating it refers to facts or information providing incontrovertible proof.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

33%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "definite evidence" is a commonly used noun phrase that signifies irrefutable proof or strong support for a claim. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted in written English. It is predominantly found in scientific, news, and academic contexts, reflecting its use in formal and objective communication. When employing this phrase, ensure that the evidence presented truly warrants such a strong assertion, distinguishing it from merely suggestive or circumstantial information. The examples provided by Ludwig showcase the phrase's versatility and underscore its importance in constructing persuasive and credible arguments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

conclusive proof

Emphasizes the finality and decisiveness of the proof.

irrefutable proof

Highlights the undeniable and unquestionable nature of the proof.

unquestionable evidence

Focuses on the lack of doubt associated with the evidence.

undeniable facts

Shifts from evidence to the factual nature of the information.

certain indications

Subtly weakens the strength of the statement by using "indications" instead of "evidence".

explicit confirmation

Highlights the clarity and directness of the confirmation.

clear indication

Highlights the clarity and obviousness of the indication.

solid grounds

Presents the evidence as a firm foundation for a claim.

concrete data

Emphasizes the tangible and measurable nature of the data.

hard facts

Highlights the irrefutable and solid nature of the facts.

FAQs

How can I use "definite evidence" in a sentence?

You can use "definite evidence" to indicate strong proof or support for a claim. For instance: "The investigation provided "definite evidence" of fraud."

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "definite evidence"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "conclusive proof", "irrefutable proof", or "unquestionable evidence" to convey a similar meaning.

Is there a difference between "definite evidence" and "strong evidence"?

"Definite evidence" implies a higher degree of certainty and irrefutability compared to "strong evidence". While strong evidence provides significant support, definite evidence is considered conclusive.

When is it appropriate to use the term "definite evidence"?

Use "definite evidence" when the evidence is direct, verifiable, and leaves little to no room for alternative explanations or doubt. It is most appropriate in situations where certainty and clarity are crucial.