Definitively: meaning, definitions and examples

Add to dictionary

definitively

 

[ dɪˈfɪnɪtɪvli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

in a final and conclusive way

Definitively means in a way that is final and conclusive, leaving no doubt or uncertainty. It is used to emphasize the decisiveness or conclusiveness of a statement or action.

Synonyms

conclusively, decisively, irrevocably.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
definitively

Use in situations where an answer or solution is fixed and precise, and provides a clear resolution.

  • She has a definitively perfect plan for the project's success
  • The book offers a definitively comprehensive guide to the subject
conclusively

Employ when referring to something that leaves no doubt and settles the matter completely.

  • The DNA test results conclusively showed who the father was
  • The investigation conclusively determined the cause of the fire
decisively

Optimal in situations where a strong, confident decision or action is taken, often with a sense of authority.

  • He acted decisively to save the company from bankruptcy
  • The team played decisively, securing a win
irrevocably

Relevant when discussing something that cannot be changed or undone, often with a sense of permanency.

  • The contract was irrevocably signed and sealed
  • His decision to move abroad was irrevocably made, and he couldn't go back

Examples of usage

  • After months of debate, the decision was made definitively.
  • The results of the test definitively proved her theory.
Context #2 | Adverb

in a way that is authoritative and not subject to further debate

Definitively can also mean in a way that is authoritative and not subject to further debate. It implies a sense of finality and certainty that cannot be questioned.

Synonyms

authoritatively, categorically, conclusively.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
definitively

Used for clarity or precision in finalizing information, often in technical or academic contexts.

  • The map definitively marks the boundaries of the property.
  • This publication definitively outlines the history of the event.
authoritatively

Used when conveying a sense of expertise, confidence, or command. Suitable for situations where someone is speaking with authority.

  • She spoke authoritatively about the company's new policy.
  • The professor authoritatively answered all questions from the students.
conclusively

To indicate that something settles an argument or question completely, often used in the context of evidence or proof.

  • The DNA evidence conclusively linked the suspect to the crime.
  • The results of the study conclusively show the benefits of the treatment.
categorically

Implying an absolute and unqualified statement or decision. Often used to strongly refute or affirm something.

  • He categorically denied any wrongdoing.
  • The spokesperson categorically stated that the rumors were false.

Examples of usage

  • The judge's ruling settled the matter definitively.
  • The expert's opinion definitively answered the question.

Translations

Translations of the word "definitively" in other languages:

🇵🇹 definitivamente

🇮🇳 अंतिम रूप से

🇩🇪 endgültig

🇮🇩 secara pasti

🇺🇦 остаточно

🇵🇱 ostatecznie

🇯🇵 決定的に (ketteiteki ni)

🇫🇷 définitivement

🇪🇸 definitivamente

🇹🇷 kesinlikle

🇰🇷 결정적으로 (gyeoljeongjeogeuro)

🇸🇦 بشكل حاسم

🇨🇿 definitivně

🇸🇰 definitívne

🇨🇳 明确地 (míngquè de)

🇸🇮 dokončno

🇮🇸 endanlega

🇰🇿 нақты

🇬🇪 საბოლოოდ

🇦🇿 dəqiq olaraq

🇲🇽 definitivamente

Etymology

The word 'definitively' originates from the Latin word 'definitivus', meaning 'having fixed limits'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. Over time, its usage has evolved to convey a sense of finality and decisiveness.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,734, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.