definitive evidence

USAGE SUMMARY

"definitive evidence" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to something that confirms a fact beyond all doubt. For example, "The forensic test results provided definitive evidence that the suspect was guilty."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But that was seen as inference, not definitive evidence.

The Guardian

He had no definitive evidence that Oakeshott was involved.

The Guardian

The experience of the British police does provide relevant though not definitive evidence.

The New York Times

But efforts to prevent the spread of AIDS will not wait for definitive evidence.

The New York Times

As the panel noted: "Emails are rarely definitive evidence of what actually occurred".

The Guardian

But excavations have yet to turn up definitive evidence of palaces, temples or large civic buildings.

The New York Times - Science

Drug tests did not show definitive evidence that Ramirez had used performance-enhancing drugs.

The New York Times - Sports

They say it is too soon: there is no definitive evidence that the drugs will work.

The New York Times - Health

However, there is not yet definitive evidence for or against extraterrestrial life on these planets.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In this week's Science, though, she comes back with definitive evidence.

The Economist

Other researchers are not so certain that the type of definitive evidence many archaeologists demand will ever be found.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "definitive evidence" when you want to convey that the proof or data available is conclusive and leaves no room for doubt.

Common error

Avoid using "definitive evidence" when the evidence is merely suggestive or circumstantial. Reserve it for cases where the evidence is irrefutable and leaves no room for alternative explanations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definitive evidence" functions as a noun phrase that identifies specific information that proves a fact beyond doubt. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and used to indicate that something confirms a fact without any doubts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

34%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "definitive evidence" is a widely used noun phrase that signifies irrefutable proof or data supporting a claim. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability for use in written English. It is frequently found in news, scientific, and academic contexts to assert claims with certainty. Alternatives include "conclusive proof" and "irrefutable data". Remember to use it only when the evidence truly leaves no room for doubt, and be mindful of avoiding overstatement. Always cite credible sources when making assertions based on evidence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

conclusive proof

Replaces "evidence" with "proof", emphasizing the undeniable nature of the finding.

irrefutable data

Substitutes "evidence" with "data", suggesting a more quantitative or scientific backing.

undeniable facts

Replaces "evidence" with "facts", highlighting the objective and verifiable nature of the information.

certain substantiation

Uses "substantiation" instead of "evidence", providing a more formal and emphatic tone.

unquestionable verification

Emphasizes the lack of doubt associated with the confirmation of something.

absolute confirmation

Focuses on the completeness and certainty of the corroboration.

proven beyond doubt

Indicates that the evidence has eliminated any uncertainty.

incontrovertible proof

Stresses that the proof cannot be argued against or denied.

rock-solid confirmation

Uses a more informal expression to convey the reliability of the confirmation.

compelling validation

Highlights the convincing and persuasive nature of the validation.

FAQs

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

"Definitive evidence" is used to indicate that there is conclusive proof of something. For example, "The DNA analysis provided "definitive evidence" of his guilt."

What are some alternatives to using "definitive evidence"?

Alternatives include "conclusive proof", "irrefutable data", or "undeniable facts", depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "definitive evidence" and "circumstantial evidence"?

"Definitive evidence" directly proves a fact, while circumstantial evidence implies a fact without directly proving it. "Definitive evidence" is much stronger and more reliable.

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

Use "definitive evidence" only when the evidence is so strong that it removes all reasonable doubt and leads to a clear conclusion. Avoid using it if the evidence is open to interpretation or could suggest multiple possibilities.