definitively agree

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "definitively agree" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express a strong and clear agreement with a statement or opinion. Example: "After reviewing all the evidence, I can definitively agree with the conclusion drawn by the researchers."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

We can definitively agree on MRI examination reliability in identifying the correct anatomical localisation but only with respect to the spinal canal.

Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The question is unlikely to be definitively agreed, Switek predicts, without the discovery of fresh fossils, in particular a Brontosaurus skull, which has never been found.

The Guardian

Again, the study was not powered to investigate this definitively, and we agree that larger studies are required, but safety data in TIMES2 study is reassuring.

Diabetes Care

It took four doctors — Hershon, Andrews, Lewis Yocum and David Altchek — to find one who agreed definitively.

The New York Times - Sports

In our era of political polarization and congressional stagnation, it's been ages since top Republicans and Democrats in Washington could agree on anything more definitively than the need to keep Trump out of the White House.

The Guardian - Opinion

Last week on the Sunday news shows, I remember watching in disbelief as Larry Summers smugly told the 15 million Americans out of work that the recession was definitively over and that all economists agree.

Huffington Post

Many authors agree that it is difficult to definitively differentiate between malignant and benign neoplasms as well as between different types of benign tumours solely on the basis of MRI findings [ 19– 23].

BioMed Research International

But most physicists and philosophers agree that it's impossible to prove definitively that we don't live in a simulation and that the universe is real.

Huffington Post

If multiple gene trees agree on a phylogenetic structure, we could then definitively dismiss the star-phylogeny hypothesis for the Arvicolinae.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Have one for yourself, and see if you don't agree with me that the lyric John sings is absolutely, positively, definitively the official one and absolutely, positively, definitively NOT the one I had been hearing mishearing all these years.

The New Yorker

Have one for yourself, and see if you don't agree with me that the lyric John sings is absolutely, positively, definitively the official one and absolutely, positively, definitively NOT the one I had been hearing — mishearing — all these years.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "definitively agree" when you want to express not only agreement but also the certainty and finality of that agreement. This is particularly useful when resolving a debate or settling a dispute.

Common error

Avoid stacking multiple intensifiers like "absolutely definitively agree". While it might seem to add emphasis, it can come across as redundant and weaken your message. Choose the single strongest term that fits the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definitively agree" functions as a compound verb phrase, where 'definitively' intensifies the verb 'agree'. It indicates a strong, certain, and conclusive agreement. Ludwig's examples show it used in contexts where clarity and finality are important.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "definitively agree" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase to express strong and certain agreement. While Ludwig notes it's relatively rare, it is appropriate in various contexts, including news, science, and professional settings. Consider alternatives like "categorically agree" or "absolutely agree" for similar emphasis. Ensure to use the phrase when you wish to convey clarity and finality, but avoid overusing intensifiers for a more impactful message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

categorically agree

Replaces "definitively" with "categorically", emphasizing the absence of conditions or exceptions in the agreement.

unreservedly agree

Focuses on the complete and total nature of the agreement, leaving no room for doubt.

absolutely agree

Emphasizes the certainty and conviction in the agreement.

fully concur

A more formal way to express complete agreement.

wholeheartedly agree

Highlights the enthusiasm and sincerity behind the agreement.

firmly agree

Stresses the resolution and determination in holding the same opinion.

strongly agree

Emphasizes the intensity of the agreement.

decidedly agree

Implies a clear and unambiguous agreement.

conclusively agree

Indicates the agreement is based on solid proof or evidence.

genuinely agree

Highlights the sincerity and honesty of the agreement.

FAQs

What does "definitively agree" mean?

The phrase "definitively agree" means to agree with something in a way that is clear, decisive, and leaves no room for doubt. It indicates a strong and certain agreement.

When is it appropriate to use "definitively agree"?

Use "definitively agree" when you want to emphasize the strength and certainty of your agreement, especially after careful consideration or when resolving a dispute.

What are some alternatives to "definitively agree"?

You can use alternatives like "absolutely agree", "categorically agree", or "unreservedly agree" to convey a similar sense of strong agreement.

Is "definitively agree" formal or informal?

The phrase "definitively agree" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it might be more common in situations where clear and strong agreement is particularly important. It's slightly more emphatic than simply saying "agree".