is not definitive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is not definitive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something is not conclusive or certain. Example: "The results of the study are interesting, but they are not definitive and require further research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is not definitive.

The New York Times

DNA is not definitive.

The New York Times

But APOE is not definitive.

The New York Times

This list is not definitive.

The Guardian - Sport

"We hope it is not definitive".

The New York Times

But that track is not definitive.

The New York Times

Even the research is not definitive.

The New York Times - Health

Obviously, he continues, one study is not definitive.

The New York Times - Magazine

The conviction is not definitive until two appeals are made.

The New York Times

�� Bill Walsh A. Clinical diagnosis of Alzheimer's is not definitive.

The New York Times

This difference is hard to see in the field and is not definitive.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is not definitive", always clarify what specific aspect lacks definitiveness to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify whether it's the research, the evidence, or the conclusion that isn't definitive.

Common error

Avoid using "is not definitive" to undermine well-supported findings. While acknowledging uncertainty is important, ensure it doesn't negate the significance of reliable data or established knowledge.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is not definitive" functions as a qualifier, used to express that a piece of information, evidence, or conclusion lacks the quality of being final, conclusive, or certain. This is supported by Ludwig AI, which identified the phrase as grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is not definitive" is a versatile qualifier used to express a lack of certainty or finality. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is grammatically sound and frequently used across a range of contexts. From news reports and scientific studies to academic discussions, the phrase serves to temper claims and acknowledge limitations. While it is most commonly found in neutral and formal registers, understanding its purpose and potential alternatives can enhance the clarity and precision of your writing. Remember to clarify what specific aspect "is not definitive" to avoid ambiguity, and avoid using the expression to undermine substantiated information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is not conclusive

Replaces "definitive" with "conclusive", emphasizing the lack of a final resolution.

is not conclusive evidence

Adds "evidence" to specify that the lack of definitiveness pertains to proof.

is uncertain

Uses a simpler adjective to describe the lack of certainty.

is not proven

Focuses on the lack of proof, rather than a general lack of definitiveness.

remains unconfirmed

Highlights the status of being not yet verified or validated.

lacks finality

Highlights the absence of a conclusive end or resolution.

is still up for debate

Emphasizes that the matter is still being discussed and argued.

is questionable

Suggests doubt or uncertainty about the validity or truth.

is not set in stone

Uses a more idiomatic expression to convey a lack of finality.

is subject to change

Indicates that the information or situation is not fixed and may be altered.

FAQs

How can I use "is not definitive" in a sentence?

You can use "is not definitive" to express that something is not conclusive or certain. For example: "The initial study showed promising results, but the evidence "is not definitive" and requires further investigation."

What can I say instead of "is not definitive"?

Alternatives to "is not definitive" include phrases such as "is not conclusive", "is uncertain", or "remains unconfirmed", depending on the context.

Which is correct: "is not definitive" or "is not definite"?

"Is not definitive" is generally more appropriate when discussing research, evidence, or conclusions, as it implies a lack of conclusiveness. "Is not definite" is used when talking about something that is not clear or certain.

What's the difference between "is not definitive" and "is not absolute"?

"Is not definitive" indicates a lack of finality or conclusiveness, often in the context of evidence or research. "Is not absolute" suggests that something is not without exceptions or limitations. While both indicate a lack of certainty, they emphasize different aspects.