definite
DEH-fih-niht
Definite (adj) means Clearly fixed or limited; not vague. Example: “We need a definite answer by Friday.”
adj
1
Clearly fixed or limited; not vague.
"We need a definite answer by Friday."
"There is a definite chance of rain tomorrow."
"Please give me a definite time so I can plan my day."
2
Certain and free of doubt.
"She was definite about wanting to move abroad."
How to use definite
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishClear-cut and certain, with no ambiguity.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "definitive," which means final and authoritative rather than simply clear.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
definite answer
definite plans
definite article
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like definite.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- definites
- Comparative
- more definite
- Superlative
- most definite
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
We need a _____ answer by Friday.
Etymology
From Latin dēfīnītus, the past participle of dēfīniō — the same root as "define."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for definite
See all rhymes for definite →Frequently asked questions
What does “definite” mean?
The word “definite” means clearly fixed or limited; not vague. In plain terms, clear-cut and certain, with no ambiguity.
How do you pronounce “definite”?
“Definite” is pronounced DEH-fih-niht (/ˈdɛfɪnɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “definite” in a sentence?
Here is “definite” used in a sentence: “We need a definite answer by Friday.”
What is another word for “definite”?
Words with a similar meaning to “definite” include finite and limited.
What is the opposite of “definite”?
The opposite of “definite” — its antonyms — are indefinite, nebulous and vague.
What part of speech is “definite”?
“Definite” is an adjective.
Where does the word “definite” come from?
The word “definite” comes from Latin. From Latin dēfīnītus, the past participle of dēfīniō — the same root as "define.".
Is “definite” a common word?
“Definite” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between definite and definitive?
Definite describes something clearly fixed, certain, or free of doubt, such as a definite answer or a definite plan. Definitive means final and conclusive, settling a matter once and for all, such as a definitive ruling that ends all debate.
What is a definite article in grammar?
The definite article is 'the,' used to refer to a specific, particular noun that the speaker and listener both understand, as opposed to an indefinite article like 'a' or 'an,' which refers to any one example of something.
When should you use definite instead of certain?
Definite and certain can overlap, but definite more often describes something clearly fixed or specified, such as a definite date or definite shape, while certain more often describes confidence or belief, as in 'I am certain it will rain.'
