definitive of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "definitive of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to signify that something is the definitive representative or example of something. For example: Her unique style of writing is definitive of her creative approach.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Functional definitions take some function(s) or intended function(s) to be definitive of artworks.

SEP

It's not definitive, of course.

The Guardian - Sport

The room's effect is definitive of high minimalism: enveloping and saturnine.

The New Yorker

It already looks doubtful that Saturday's most definitive of results has really settled anything at all.

The Guardian

By then, antagonism to mass culture had come to seem virtually definitive of the American intellectual.

The New Yorker

Three of them are now considered definitive of his style: "Square Dance," "Agon," and "Stars and Stripes".

The New Yorker

It struck all who saw it as definitive of New York at its most high and mighty.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

The survey did not stipulate a definitive definition of SDM.

BMJ Open

We finally remark on the lack of definitive analysis of the state of the alloy.

Nanoscale Research Letters

All that exists is absence, the lack of definitive proof of guilt.

The Guardian - Opinion

And he's right there on page two, of the definitive account of them.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "definitive of", ensure that the subject truly represents a conclusive or quintessential example of the concept you're describing. Avoid overstating its representativeness.

Common error

Avoid using "definitive of" when describing something that only partially represents a concept. Using a more nuanced phrase like "characteristic of" or "indicative of" may be more accurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definitive of" primarily functions as a qualifying adjective followed by a preposition. It modifies a noun phrase to indicate that the noun is the most representative or defining example of a particular category or concept. Ludwig AI confirms its standard grammatical use.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "definitive of" serves as a potent tool for designating something as the ultimate representation or embodiment of a specific concept or category. As noted by Ludwig AI, this adjectival phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted in English writing. Its presence is particularly pronounced in scientific, news, and encyclopedic contexts, reflecting a tendency toward formality and precision.

When employing this phrase, ensure that the subject genuinely represents a conclusive example and avoid overstating its representativeness. Consider using alternatives like "characteristic of" or "representative of" for nuances. By understanding these subtleties, you can wield "definitive of" with confidence and accuracy in your writing. Ludwig's examples are a treasure for every use case to gain the best confidence with this expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

quintessential of

Suggests the most perfect or typical example.

a hallmark of

Emphasizes a distinguishing characteristic or quality.

characteristic of

Focuses on typical or distinguishing traits rather than a conclusive definition.

distinctive of

Emphasizes unique and recognizable features.

representative of

Highlights the act of symbolizing or standing in for something else.

constitutive of

Highlights the elements that compose or create something.

emblematic of

Implies a symbolic representation, often with a deeper or more abstract meaning.

indicative of

Points to something as a sign or symptom, rather than a complete definition.

typical of

Indicates something common or expected, not necessarily the ultimate definition.

expressive of

Suggests a way to convey sentiments.

FAQs

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

Use "definitive of" to indicate that something perfectly represents or defines a particular concept. For example, "That performance was "definitive of" his artistic style".

What phrases are similar to "definitive of"?

Similar phrases include "characteristic of", "representative of", and "emblematic of", each carrying slightly different nuances.

Is it correct to say "something is definitive to" instead of "definitive of"?

While "definitive" can be used with "to" in some contexts (e.g., "a definitive answer to the question"), "definitive of" is the correct construction when indicating that something defines or represents something else.

How does "definitive of" differ from "typical of"?

"Definitive of" suggests that something perfectly embodies or defines a concept, whereas "typical of" simply indicates that something is common or expected. For example, "jazz music is "typical of" the USA", but Louis Armstrong's performance is "definitive of" Jazz.