to be definite

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be definite" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the need for clarity or certainty in a statement or decision. Example: "In order to avoid confusion, it is important to be definite about the project's deadlines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

"It's still too early to be definite (that the debris is from an aircraft) but definitely we have now had a number of very credible leads and there is increasing hope — no more than hope — that we might be on the road to discovering what did happen to this ill-fated aircraft".

The Guardian

But he does not want to be definite about this.

The Guardian - Film

"Surely there has to be definite evidence to overturn on-field decision?

The Guardian - Sport

I want them to be definite, self-sufficient, and true in what they represent, like expressionist paintings.

The New Yorker

The path, to be definite, is directed by some closed plane curve (the directrix), along which the line always glides.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is hard to be definite, but the evidence suggests that, if judges have a bias, it is a "chivalrous" prejudice in favour of women.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

The experience of writing the application will be valuable, and there are definite advantages to having your own money.

Science Magazine

"It begins to seem that if anything is definite at all," we might echo Penrose, "then the entire space-time must indeed be definite!

SEP

ASReml was run with an option to check whether the variance-covariance matrices were positive definite and were forced to be positive definite [ 34] if they were not.

Genetics, Selection, Evolution

Since W Y k ) is chosen to be positive definite, we require ΔW Y k ) be negative definite.

Advances in Difference Equations

Lisette shook her head, grateful for something to say that was definite.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity in contracts or legal documents, use "to be definite" to specify conditions or requirements with precision. For example, "To be definite, all payments must be received within 30 days."

Common error

Avoid using "to be definite" in casual conversation where simpler phrases like "to be clear" or "to be specific" would sound more natural. Overly formal language can create distance with your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be definite" primarily functions as an infinitive phrase, often used to introduce a clarification, specification, or condition that needs to be clearly understood. Ludwig AI validates this use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to be definite" serves to emphasize clarity and precision in communication. While grammatically correct, its frequency is uncommon, leaning towards professional and neutral registers. When aiming for clarity, especially in formal or technical contexts, this phrase is appropriate. However, be mindful of overuse in casual settings where simpler alternatives may suffice. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is usable in written English to discuss the need for clarity or certainty in a statement or decision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be explicit

This alternative emphasizes directness and clarity in expression, differing slightly in its focus on avoiding ambiguity.

to be specific

This alternative highlights the use of precise details and particulars, shifting the focus from general certainty to concrete information.

to be precise

This alternative stresses accuracy and exactness, indicating a higher degree of detail than a general sense of definiteness.

to be clear

This alternative emphasizes comprehensibility and lack of confusion, focusing more on understanding than certainty.

to be certain

This option emphasizes a state of being assured or having no doubt, whereas the original is about making something defined.

to be conclusive

This alternative conveys that something is decisive and leaves no room for doubt, highlighting the result rather than the process.

to be definitive

This alternative suggests that something is final and authoritative, indicating a higher level of resolution.

to be unambiguous

This phrase focuses on the absence of multiple interpretations, emphasizing clarity in a way that prevents confusion.

to state categorically

This alternative indicates an assertive and unqualified declaration, emphasizing the firmness of the statement.

to stipulate

This alternative means to specify as a condition or requirement, focusing on setting clear terms rather than a general sense of definiteness.

FAQs

What does "to be definite" mean?

The phrase "to be definite" means to be clear, specific, and leave no room for ambiguity. It's used to emphasize the importance of precision in communication.

How can I use "to be definite" in a sentence?

You can use "to be definite" to introduce a clarification or specification. For example, "To be definite, the deadline is July 31st." It's often used when you want to ensure there is no misunderstanding.

What are some alternatives to "to be definite"?

Some alternatives to "to be definite" include "to be specific", "to be precise", "to be clear", or "to be explicit". The best choice depends on the context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "to be definite" or "to be definitive"?

"To be definite" focuses on being clear and specific, while "to be definitive" suggests something is final and authoritative. Use "to be definite" when you want to clarify something. Use "to be definitive" when you're presenting a final answer or conclusion.