DEFINITE Synonyms: 218 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

definite

adjective

ˈde-fə-nit

Definition of definite next

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

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in absolute

having no exceptions or restrictions the house is a definite bargain by today's standards

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Examples of definite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web However, there are definite risks that come with exclusively investing in an S&P 500 index fund on the equity side of a portfolio. —

Lorie Konish, CNBC, 9 Oct. 2024 Rome sweet Rome There is no doubt about it: Rome is a definite person of interest this season. —

Dalton Ross, EW.com, 3 Oct. 2024 The plastic may not be a problem for many happy users, but for others, it's proven a definite negative. —

New Atlas, 2 Oct. 2024 Genetic tweaks could increase some athletes red blood cell count—a definite advantage for endurance. —

Bethany Brookshire, Scientific American, 1 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for definite

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'definite.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.