you definitely can

USAGE SUMMARY

"you definitely can" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express assurance or certainty, such as when answering a question or responding to a suggestion. For example: "Do you think I can make it on time?" "Yes, you definitely can!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

But you definitely can".

The New York Times - Magazine

You definitely can sense that special feeling about this tournament".

The New York Times

"If the English can do it," she added, "you definitely can".

The New York Times

"He's a professional, ultimate class, the ultimate team guy, somebody you definitely can learn from," Edwards said.

The New York Times

He saw me bowl it and he said 'look, you definitely can do it', which was quite nice.

The Guardian - Sport

If there's a problem on board, can I ask a cadet for help just as I would a police officer? A. You definitely can ask.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

If you survive the ode to shopping "The Christmas Can-Can," then you definitely can-can make it through the rest of this second Christmas barrage by Straight No Chaser.

Huffington Post

Jon Gregory: "Don't be fooled, you most definitely can prepare!

The Guardian

Here at HuffPost Gay Voices we believe that what you don't know definitely can hurt you.

Huffington Post

But you know what definitely can feel?

Vice

They definitely can impact you life".

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "you definitely can" to provide strong encouragement or assurance, especially when someone is unsure of their ability.

Common error

Avoid using "you definitely can" in every situation. Vary your language to maintain a natural tone and prevent sounding repetitive. Alternatives like "absolutely", "certainly", or "I'm sure you can" might be more appropriate depending on the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "you definitely can" functions as a strong affirmative response, providing assurance or encouragement. It directly addresses the listener, confirming their ability or possibility. Ludwig AI indicates that it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Huffington Post

24%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "you definitely can" serves as a common and affirmative phrase used to express assurance or encouragement. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness in written English. While versatile, it leans towards informal contexts. The phrase is primarily found in news and media sources. When writing, remember to vary your language and use other phrases to prevent overuse. Be confident and use "you definitely can" to empower others with your support!

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

you absolutely can

Stronger emphasis on certainty.

you certainly can

Formal way to express possibility and confidence.

you surely can

Similar to 'certainly', but with a slightly softer tone.

you really can

Emphasis on the reality or genuineness of the possibility.

you truly can

Highlights the truth or validity of the ability.

you are able to

More formal and less emphatic.

it is possible for you

Impersonal and formal restatement.

you have the ability to

Focuses on inherent capacity.

you are permitted to

Indicates permission or authorization.

feel free to

Offers encouragement and freedom to act.

FAQs

How to use "you definitely can" in a sentence?

Use "you definitely can" to express strong agreement, assurance, or encouragement. For example, if someone asks, "Do you think I can finish this project on time?", you could respond, "Yes, "you definitely can"!".

What can I say instead of "you definitely can"?

You can use alternatives like "you absolutely can", "you certainly can", or "I am sure you can" depending on the context and level of formality.

When is it appropriate to use "you definitely can"?

It is appropriate to use "you definitely can" in situations where you want to provide strong encouragement or express firm agreement. It's suitable for informal conversations and situations where a confident tone is desired.

Is "you definitely can" formal or informal?

"You definitely can" is generally considered informal. In more formal settings, you might opt for alternatives such as "you certainly can" or "it is possible for you".