Definition of definitenext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word definite distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of definite are explicit, express, and specific. While all these words mean "perfectly clear in meaning," definite stresses precise, clear statement or arrangement that leaves no doubt or indecision.

the law is definite in such cases

When could explicit be used to replace definite?

The meanings of explicit and definite largely overlap; however, explicit implies such verbal plainness and distinctness that there is no need for inference and no room for difficulty in understanding.

explicit instructions

Where would express be a reasonable alternative to definite?

The words express and definite are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, express implies both explicitness and direct and positive utterance.

her express wishes

When would specific be a good substitute for definite?

While in some cases nearly identical to definite, specific applies to what is precisely and fully treated in detail or particular.

two specific criticisms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of definite As for the second one, well, your guess is as good as mine regarding a definite answer. David Fear, Rolling Stone, 9 Apr. 2026 Concrete, the structure’s dominant material, may be a synonym for fixed and definite, but the experience within is inescapably fluid. Leah Ollman, Los Angeles Times, 8 Apr. 2026 Thus, markets are inclined to view the ceasefire as a definite end to the conflict. Jim Edwards, Fortune, 8 Apr. 2026 But the Bulls don’t have a definite cornerstone to build around. Zach Harper, New York Times, 7 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for definite
Recent Examples of Synonyms for definite
Adjective
  • Beginning July 1, the agency will take on a more limited role focused on coordinating the region’s rehousing system, including managing data, helping coordinate how people access services and leading applications for annual federal funding.
    Teresa Liu, Daily News, 25 Apr. 2026
  • After seeing limited action through three-plus seasons at Georgia Tech, Knight transferred to Charlotte in 2023 and reinvigorated his career.
    Sam Warren, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Could a traffic code provide explicit limits for every possible set of road conditions?
    Nikhil Krishnan, New Yorker, 20 Apr. 2026
  • In many cases, Friedman said, authors assume they are not supposed to discuss their deals, even when there is no explicit restriction.
    Josh Rivera, USA Today, 19 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • With Trump, these oppositions are never absolute.
    Fintan O’Toole, The New York Review of Books, 25 Apr. 2026
  • The offense came up with timely hits early, Garrett Crochet was back to being Garrett Crochet and in the top of the ninth, the Red Sox erupted in epic fashion, scoring 10 runs to turn what was already a blowout into an absolute laugher.
    Mac Cerullo, Hartford Courant, 25 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • At the same time, both nations had finite resources and had to decide between attacking and defending individual cities.
    Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 19 Apr. 2026
  • On Tuesday, however, the Lakers focused on those finite details that might be the difference between scraping out wins against the Rockets or a quick hello and goodbye to postseason basketball.
    Benjamin Royer, Oc Register, 14 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • But measurement collapses this superposition, yielding one definitive outcome.
    Stephanie Pappas, Scientific American, 21 Apr. 2026
  • The announcement also comes with details on a plan to upgrade Ocean Cay, though a definitive timeline was not included.
    Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 20 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The series poignantly addresses the complexities of teenage struggles, particularly through Justin’s undiagnosed ADHD and Keisha’s experience of trauma, emphasizing the importance of unconditional support and the intersection of mental health with race and class in today’s world.
    Brande Victorian, HollywoodReporter, 23 Apr. 2026
  • The limited goal of bringing the regime to heel expanded immediately into its unconditional surrender and potential annihilation.
    Fintan O’Toole, The New York Review of Books, 9 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The restricted activities would include running ornamental fountains, noncommercial pressure washing and car washing, among several others.
    Drew Kann, AJC.com, 23 Apr. 2026
  • However, a small set of rooms in the Palace wing is not accessible to those with restricted mobility.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Gemini May 21 – June 20 Get specific about what’s actually worth your money and energy today.
    Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 21 Apr. 2026
  • May 21 – June 20 Get specific about what’s actually worth your money and energy today.
    Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 21 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Definite.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.grautoblog.com/thesaurus/definite. Accessed 26 Apr. 2026.

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