definitive timetable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'definitive timetable' is correct and can be used in written English.
It typically means a clear and exact timetable, plan, or schedule. For example: The student needs to create a definitive timetable for when their assignments are due.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

The official stressed that there was no planned order or definitive timetable for universities to be invited into the conference.

The New York Times - Sports

The privy council now does not meet again until October, and no definitive timetable exists for a decision.

The Guardian

"There will be further discussions, and as has been the case throughout this process, there is no definitive timetable".

The New York Times - Sports

Chrysler said the decision on Viper is "a stand-alone strategic review, unique to Viper" and it has not set a definitive timetable for completion of the review.

The New York Times

On the reported possibility of a formal timetable for major reductions, Bush was unequivocal: 'Our answer is: there should be no definitive timetable.' He pointedly noted that Brown had retreated last year on the scale of an earlier planned pullout - and that Britain still had 4,200 soldiers in Iraq rather than the projected 3,500.

The Guardian

But the Dodgers are reticent to attach a definitive timetable to his return, given the fickle nature of shoulder surgery recovery.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

The Dodgers are expected to announce a more definitive diagnosis and timetable for his recovery, but Manager Don Mattingly compared the hamstring injury to the one that sidelined outfielder Matt Kemp last season.

Los Angeles Times

Gordon Brown claimed Labour had for some weeks been pressing for a more definitive statement about the timetable for the delivery of extra powers.

The Guardian

"They will both avoid the risks of separation but have more control over their own destiny, which is where I think many Scots want to be". Gordon Brown claimed Labour had for some weeks been pressing for a more definitive statement about the timetable for the delivery of extra powers.

The Guardian

Not definitive, just definite.

The New York Times

Though the plan is now for a two-stage solution, with agreement only in principle on Sunday night or Monday morning in Luxembourg, the timetable of a definitive and detailed accord on a second bailout for Greece was unclear.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "definitive timetable" when you want to emphasize that a schedule is fixed, clear and not subject to change. This term is best suited in professional or formal settings where clarity and commitment are important.

Common error

Avoid using "definite" when you mean "definitive". While similar, "definite" implies clarity, "definitive" implies finality and authority. A "definitive timetable" is not just clear, but also considered the final, unchangeable plan.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definitive timetable" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or complement in a sentence. It signifies a specific plan or schedule that is considered final and not subject to change, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

13%

Science

12%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "definitive timetable" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a precise and unchangeable schedule. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's most commonly found in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a fixed plan, differentiating it from more flexible or tentative arrangements. Pay attention to using the term when there's a plan considered final and authoritative, not just clear but unchangeable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unalterable timetable

Implies that changes in the schedule are not admitted.

exact schedule

Highlights the absence of approximations in the schedule.

precise timeline

Highlights accuracy and detail in setting deadlines.

detailed schedule

Focuses on the inclusion of many specifics within the schedule.

set schedule

Implies a prearranged and established plan.

strict schedule

Emphasizes adherence and rigidity in the planning.

predetermined schedule

Highlights the prospective aspect of the schedule.

firm deadline

Focuses on the unchangeable nature of the end date.

fixed agenda

Highlights that the items in the plan are decided and cannot be changed

concrete plan

Stresses the solidity and tangibility of the arrangement.

FAQs

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

You can use "definitive timetable" to indicate a precise and unchangeable schedule. For example, "The project has a "definitive timetable" to ensure its completion by the end of the year".

What are some alternatives to saying "definitive timetable"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "strict schedule", "precise timeline", or "firm deadline".

Is it correct to say "a definitive timetable" or "the definitive timetable"?

Both are correct, but their use depends on the context. "A "definitive timetable"" is used when referring to one among many possible schedules, while "the "definitive timetable"" refers to a specific, already known or agreed-upon schedule.

What's the difference between "definitive timetable" and "tentative timetable"?

A ""definitive timetable"" is a fixed and final schedule, whereas a "tentative timetable" is subject to change and not yet finalized. The former implies certainty, while the latter indicates uncertainty.