more definite

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more definite" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to express a greater level of clarity or certainty about something compared to another option. Example: "To avoid confusion, please provide a more definite timeline for the project completion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But high-definition digital produces a more nuanced gradation of color and a more definite molding of the face — you see planes and hollows.

The New Yorker

Bit more definite – the man.

The Guardian - Books

Smolin furnishes the more definite answer.

The New Yorker

Gradually the path becomes more definite.

The Guardian - Travel

Later, Ms. Anderson said: "Teaching science is more definite.

The New York Times

Gradually the group developed a more definite style.

Britannica

Higher graphitization temperatures made the loop more definite.

Carbon

I am afraid I cannot be any more definite," he said.

The Guardian - Business

With each flash, the men grew more definite: their chins sharpening, cheeks ripening around their smiles.

The New Yorker

"We are looking forward to a more definite agreement in 2004," ConocoPhillips's chief executive.

The New York Times

Decoration of a more definite kind is always incised under the glaze and is usually floral.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, use "more definite" to specify an increased level of certainty or precision in your communication. For instance, instead of saying "We need better plans", specify "We need "more definite" plans".

Common error

While "more definite" is widely acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal or scientific writing where a more precise term like "more quantifiable" or "more rigorously defined" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more definite" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a greater degree of clarity, certainty, or explicitness. As Ludwig AI points out, this is a correct and widely used phrase. Examples from Ludwig show its use across various contexts, emphasizing the relative increase in definiteness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "more definite" is a grammatically sound and commonly used comparative adjective phrase that expresses a need for increased clarity or certainty. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and broad applicability across various contexts. While versatile, its usage should be tailored to the specific register of the writing, with a preference for more formal terms in highly academic or scientific contexts. Alternatives include "more certain", "more specific", and "more explicit", each carrying a slightly different nuance. Remember to use "more definite" when you need to emphasize enhanced clarity and avoid overuse in contexts where a more precise or formal term would be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more certain

Emphasizes a higher degree of confidence or assurance.

more specific

Focuses on providing additional details or particulars.

more precise

Highlights accuracy and exactness.

more explicit

Stresses clarity and directness in expression.

more unambiguous

Indicates a lack of potential for misinterpretation.

more concrete

Implies tangibility and reality, as opposed to abstractness.

more conclusive

Indicates a stronger sense of finality and decisiveness.

more distinct

Highlights the clearness of the definition.

more resolved

Suggests greater clarity after a period of uncertainty.

more pronounced

Implies that something is more noticeable and unmistakable.

FAQs

How can I use "more definite" in a sentence?

You can use "more definite" to describe plans, conclusions, agreements or approaches. For example, "We need a "more definite plan"" or "The research requires a "more definite conclusion"".

What's the difference between "more definite" and "more specific"?

"More definite" implies a greater degree of certainty or clarity, while "more specific" means providing more detailed or particular information. You can use "more specific" if you just want to add details. If you seek clarity about something that is uncertain, then use "more definite".

What can I say instead of "more definite"?

Alternatives to "more definite" include "more certain", "more precise", or "more explicit", depending on the specific context. Each of these alternatives carries a slightly different nuance regarding certainty, accuracy, and directness.

Which is correct, "more definite" or "more definitive"?

Both phrases have their use cases. "More definite" is generally used to express a stronger degree of clarity or certainty, while "more definitive" implies being the most authoritative or conclusive. The choice depends on whether you are emphasizing increased clarity or ultimate conclusiveness.