definitely yes

USAGE SUMMARY

'definitely yes' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You could use it in any situation where you are emphasizing the affirmative response to a question. For example: Q: Can I have a piece of cake? A: Definitely yes!.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Most definitely, yes.

The Guardian

Almost definitely yes.

The Washington Post

The answer is mostly definitely yes.

Princeton University

I would say most definitely yes.

Independent

The long answer is definitely yes.

The New Yorker

One of my teachers said definitely yes.

The New Yorker

"I answered definitely yes," he says.

The Guardian

Most definitely yes, she has said.

The Guardian - Books

Definitely yes about dreams, which stick with me.

The New Yorker

Well, for most, the answer was definitely yes.

The New York Times

Definitely, yes – there was a sense of completion.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "definitely yes" to add emphasis and clarity when responding affirmatively to a question, especially when a simple "yes" might seem understated.

Common error

While "definitely yes" is effective for emphasis, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive or insincere. Vary your responses with alternatives like "absolutely", "certainly", or simply "yes" depending on the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definitely yes" functions as an emphatic affirmative response. According to Ludwig, it serves to reinforce a positive answer, conveying a strong sense of agreement or confirmation. Examples from news articles, scientific papers, and everyday conversations showcase its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "definitely yes" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase for expressing strong affirmation. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across diverse contexts, ranging from news media and scientific publications to everyday conversations. While highly versatile, it's essential to consider the level of formality required and avoid overuse. Alternatives such as "absolutely yes" or "certainly yes" can add nuance. The frequency analysis reveals its prevalence in News & Media and Science, making it a valuable addition to any writer's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Absolutely yes

Expresses an enthusiastic and unequivocal agreement, similar to "definitely yes" but potentially stronger in tone.

Certainly yes

Indicates a firm agreement with a sense of confidence, slightly more formal than "definitely yes".

Indeed yes

Affirms a statement with emphasis, carrying a slightly more formal or emphatic tone.

Of course

Implies that something is obvious or naturally follows, less forceful than "definitely yes".

Without a doubt

Emphasizes certainty and removes any possibility of uncertainty, more elaborate than "definitely yes".

Yes, indeed

Reverses the order for a more emphatic agreement.

Positively

Expresses a strong affirmation, less common than "definitely yes".

By all means

Indicates enthusiastic permission or agreement, slightly more formal.

Without question

Highlights the absence of doubt, more emphatic than "definitely yes".

Assuredly

Expresses confidence and certainty, less frequently used in modern conversation.

FAQs

How can I use "definitely yes" in a sentence?

You can use "definitely yes" to express strong agreement or affirmation. For example, if someone asks, "Is this the right way to do it?", you could respond, "Definitely yes".

What are some alternatives to "definitely yes"?

You can use alternatives like "absolutely yes", "certainly yes", or "of course" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "definitely yes" instead of just "yes"?

Use "definitely yes" when you want to emphasize your agreement or show strong conviction. It's suitable when a simple "yes" might not convey the level of certainty or enthusiasm you intend.

Is "definitely yes" suitable for formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "definitely yes" might be considered slightly informal for some formal contexts. Consider using a more formal alternative such as "certainly" or "without a doubt" in highly formal situations.