dispositive

adjective

dis·​pos·​i·​tive di-ˈspä-zə-tiv 

: directed toward or effecting disposition (as of a case)

dispositive evidence

Examples of dispositive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In both cases, the parties have until May 17, 2027, to file dispositive motions seeking to resolve each case without a trial. — Scharon Harding, ArsTechnica, 9 July 2026

However, Burke noted that the relationship between Liaw and the current co-founders are relevant, but not determinative or dispositive. — Amanda Gerut, Fortune, 5 May 2026

Again, though, those declines are not dispositive of anything but fear. — Jim Cramer, CNBC, 16 Mar. 2026

Though the flimsiness of the threat was widely noted, the issue was not dispositive. — Robert Goulder, Forbes.com, 2 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1618, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for dispositive

• causative
• positive
• electropositive
• seropositive

Legal Definition

dispositive

adjective

dis·​pos·​i·​tive dis-ˈpä-zə-tiv 

1

: directed toward or effecting a disposition (as of a case)

an endless variety of dispositive…pretrial motions

—Robert Shaw-Meadow

2

: relating to a disposition of property

dispositive words in a will

3

: providing a final resolution (as of an issue) : having control over an outcome

dispositive of the question