Synonyms of definite

definite

adjective

ˈde-fə-nit 

1

as in limited

having distinct or certain limits

there should be a definite scope to your paper on the campaign for women's rights because you obviously cannot cover the whole history in five pages

Synonyms & Similar Words

• limited
• finite
• restricted
• defined
• narrow
• specific
• determinate
• measured
• circumscribed
• bounded
• detailed
• small
• confined
• qualified
• tiny
• fixed
• precise
• exact
• modest
• moderate
• modified
• determined
• settled
• constricted
• puny
• minute

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• indefinite
• infinite
• general
• endless
• unlimited
• dimensionless
• limitless
• immeasurable
• undefined
• boundless
• innumerable
• unbounded
• incalculable
• vague
• countless
• inexhaustible
• unmeasured
• inestimable
• indeterminate
• illimitable
• measureless
• unfathomable
• nebulous
• substantial
• considerable
• unqualified
• unreserved
• bottomless
• large
• great
• major
• extensive
• big
• vast
• enlarged
• copious
• sizable
• plentiful
• expanded
• super
• ample
• broad
• universal
• hefty
• respectable
• voluminous
• whole
• handsome
• goodly
• bulky
• comprehensive
• epic
• jumbo
• grandiose
• global
• sweeping
• oversize
• expansive
• inclusive
• bumper
• cosmopolitan
• escalated
• plenitudinous
• largish
• king-size
• hulking
• whacking
• overscale

2

as in explicit

so clearly expressed as to leave no doubt about the meaning

a definite instruction not to let anyone in the house while the parents were out for the evening

Synonyms & Similar Words

• explicit
• definitive
• specific
• express
• unmistakable
• unequivocal
• unambiguous
• literal
• comprehensive
• clear-cut
• complete
• clear
• univocal
• full
• precise
• simple
• specified
• stated
• distinct
• categorical
• comprehensible
• avowed
• certain
• declared
• exhaustive
• exact
• sure
• direct
• understandable
• lucid
• intelligible
• well-defined
• straightforward
• plain

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• implicit
• inferred
• implied
• unclear
• dark
• obscure
• ambiguous
• enigmatic
• cryptic
• vague
• incorrect
• indefinite
• circuitous
• inaccurate
• imprecise
• inexact
• equivocal
• incomprehensible
• unintelligible
• unspecific
• inexplicit

3

as in absolute

having no exceptions or restrictions

the house is a definite bargain by today's standards

Synonyms & Similar Words

• absolute
• unconditional
• complete
• utter
• sheer
• total
• simple
• pure
• perfect
• real
• very
• outright
• damn
• profound
• categorical
• huge
• damned
• thorough
• thoroughgoing
• deadly
• regular
• constant
• consummate
• unmitigated
• endless
• stark
• dreadful
• blank
• genuine
• fair
• unadulterated
• clean
• downright
• unqualified
• crashing
• rank
• straight-out
• eternal
• out-and-out
• plumb
• blooming
• perpetual
• flat-out
• arrant
• unalloyed
• flat
• stone
• bodacious
• dead
• veritable
• all-out
• horrible
• terrible
• authentic
• main
• extreme
• classic
• confirmed
• unremitting
• supreme
• undying
• extraordinary
• terrific
• unrestricted
• habitual
• hopeless
• superlative
• inveterate
• frightful
• surpassing

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• uncertain
• doubtful
• questionable
• restricted
• dubious
• qualified
• equivocal

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

Recent Examples of definite

The album has a definite release date, while when the film will come out beyond the festival circuit is still up in the air. —Chris Willman, Variety, 4 June 2026

Among the appetizers, wings are a definite crowd favorite. —Regina Elling, San Diego Union-Tribune, 3 June 2026

The delays will upend morning commutes, with no definite time on when service could fully resume. —Amethyst Martinez, USA Today, 29 May 2026

The answer is a definite no, don't add red food coloring to your hummingbird food recipe. —Rita Pelczar, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 May 2026