ultimate definition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ultimate definition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the most comprehensive or final explanation of a concept or term. Example: "In the context of philosophy, the ultimate definition of happiness varies from one thinker to another."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

The ultimate definition of "posh totty".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"We're the ultimate definition of a convenience store".

The New York Times

And you know what, that's the ultimate definition of cool.

The Guardian - Music

These three young ladies have provided us with the ultimate definition of survival and perseverance.

The Guardian

How the hell can anyone say they have the ultimate definition of entertainment?

The Guardian

The ultimate definition of good must be that which is conducive to the permanent happiness of all beings.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Lasers provide the ultimate spectral definition and background suppression, and their integration with cells has recently been demonstrated.

Nature

The publicists for the DVD release of Avatar were unable to send out review copies of either the standard disc or its big daddy Blu-ray equivalent ("the ultimate high definition experience for home viewing audiences", apparently).

Independent

Thus, "non-places" go happily along with terms such as "post-modern"—and post-everything indeed deconstructionism, de-growth, relativism, liquid society, not to speak about Calvino's "invisible cities" that is the ultimate symbolic definition of the contemporary urban condition.

City, Territory and Architecture

It's got a 72-inch curved screen with ultimate high-definition and it's in 3D.

BBC

The Pro Cinema 7500 UB offers the ultimate widescreen high definition experience with anamorphic lens compatibility and "vertical stretch" picture mode.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid overusing "ultimate definition" in contexts where a simpler term like "definition" or "meaning" would suffice. Reserve it for situations where you genuinely want to emphasize the comprehensive nature of the explanation.

Common error

Don't assume that your "ultimate definition" will be universally accepted. Acknowledge that definitions can be subjective or context-dependent, even when presenting what you believe to be the most comprehensive explanation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ultimate definition" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an object in a sentence. It identifies a specific kind of definition, one that is considered the most complete, fundamental, or authoritative. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

36%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ultimate definition" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, that denotes the most complete or fundamental meaning of something. It functions as a noun phrase and is commonly found in news, scientific, and academic contexts. While it's important to avoid assuming universality and to use it judiciously, understanding its communicative purpose and register can enhance clarity and precision in writing. Alternative phrases like ""definitive explanation"" or ""essential meaning"" can provide subtle variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

definitive explanation

Focuses on providing a clear and conclusive explanation.

essential meaning

Highlights the core or fundamental meaning of a concept.

final interpretation

Emphasizes the conclusive and resolved understanding.

true essence

Suggests uncovering the genuine and intrinsic nature of something.

peak representation

Indicates the highest or most complete form of representation.

perfect example

Conveys that something is an ideal or flawless instance.

defining characteristic

Highlights the most important characteristic that identifies something.

quintessential form

Stresses that something is the most typical or representative example.

ideal model

Emphasizes that something serves as the best possible standard or example.

last word

Implies that there is nothing more to add or say; the final statement.

FAQs

How can I use "ultimate definition" in a sentence?

You can use "ultimate definition" to refer to the most complete or fundamental meaning of something. For example, "The "ultimate definition" of success varies from person to person."

What phrases can I use instead of "ultimate definition"?

Alternatives include "definitive explanation", "essential meaning", or "final interpretation" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "the ultimate definition of X is subjective"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. Saying "the "ultimate definition" of X is subjective" acknowledges that even the most comprehensive definition can be influenced by personal opinions or contexts.

What's the difference between "definition" and "ultimate definition"?

"Definition" is a general term for the meaning of something, while ""ultimate definition"" implies the most complete, fundamental, or authoritative explanation possible. It suggests a deeper or more comprehensive understanding.