definitive yes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "definitive yes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a strong and clear affirmation or agreement. Example: "After reviewing all the evidence, the committee gave a definitive yes to the proposal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

The answer was a definitive yes.

The New York Times - Sports

The answer is a definitive yes and no.

The New York Times

The short answer to that one seems to be a definitive yes.

The Guardian - Business

Now Mr. Huntsman offers a different answer and a definitive "yes" on reducing the size of our largest banks.

The New York Times

We were particularly fortunate in that many genetic screening tests do not provide such definitive "yes" or "no" answers.

The New York Times - Health

Several officials said today that both sides wanted "to run out the clock," rather than give a definitive yes or no to the president.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Projects with a definitive yes-or-no answer do not make good Ph.D. dissertations.

Science Magazine

Definitely yes.

Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education

"Let us also remember why it was right to ask the definitive question: yes or no?

The Guardian

Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes.

The Guardian - Music

Yes, yes, yes, yes.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "definitive yes" to express a clear and strong affirmation, leaving no room for ambiguity. For instance, when asked if a project will be completed on time, respond with a "definitive yes" to convey confidence and certainty.

Common error

Avoid using "definitive yes" in casual conversations where a simple "yes" suffices. The phrase's formality can sound stilted in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definitive yes" functions as an emphatic affirmation. According to Ludwig, it's used to convey a strong and unambiguous agreement, leaving little to no room for doubt. The "definitive" part amplifies the simple "yes", turning it into a stronger assertion.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "definitive yes" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to convey a strong and unambiguous affirmation. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It is particularly useful in contexts where clarity and certainty are paramount, such as news reporting, science, and business. While it may sound stilted in casual conversations, it effectively communicates conviction and leaves little room for doubt. Alternatives include "absolutely yes", "unequivocally yes", and "certainly yes", each carrying slight variations in emphasis. Ultimately, "definitive yes" is a valuable tool for expressing firm agreement and assurance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

absolutely yes

Stronger emphasis on the certainty of the affirmative response.

unequivocally yes

Highlights the lack of ambiguity in the affirmative response.

certainly yes

Focuses on the confidence in the affirmative response.

emphatically yes

Stresses the forceful nature of the agreement.

resolutely yes

Indicates a firm and unwavering agreement.

undoubtedly yes

Suggests that there is no reason to doubt the affirmative response.

positively yes

Emphasizes the positive and affirmative nature of the response.

categorically yes

Indicates an absolute and unambiguous agreement.

without a doubt, yes

Adds explicit acknowledgment that the answer is affirmative and certain.

a resounding yes

Indicates a strong and enthusiastic agreement.

FAQs

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

You can use "definitive yes" to express a strong and clear affirmation. For example, "When asked if the company would meet its quarterly goals, the CEO responded with a "definitive yes"."

What are some alternatives to "definitive yes"?

Alternatives include "absolutely yes", "unequivocally yes", or "certainly yes depending on the context".

Is it better to say "definitive yes" or just "yes"?

Use "definitive yes" when you want to emphasize the certainty and clarity of your affirmation. In more casual settings, a simple "yes" may be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "definitive yes" and "clear yes"?

"Definitive yes" implies a final and authoritative affirmation, while "clear yes" simply means the affirmation is easy to understand. The former carries more weight and formality.