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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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of definite There is, to United’s dismay, a definite trend of players breaking out of Old Trafford and finding a new lease of life. Phil Hay, New York Times, 2 Oct. 2025 Between this constant travel, Rachel’s employment instability, and a number of financial hardships and health issues, the couple was feeling definite strain. Miles Klee, Rolling Stone, 1 Oct. 2025 While spending $1 million on a home in 2016 would get buyers a definite luxury status, the bar has risen so much that, to achieve the same stature, buyers now need to spend $300,000 more, according to . Giulia Carbonaro, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Sep. 2025 The coach has been approached as well as the school on this and there is still no definite answers on when the girls' things will arrive. Hannah Sacks, PEOPLE, 26 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for definite
Recent Examples of Synonyms for definite
Adjective
  • Until recently, however, this critical industrial software field in China had been dominated by Western companies, leaving local firms with limited room to maneuver.
    Ni Tao, Interesting Engineering, 21 Oct. 2025
  • Camille Rowe reunited with Reformation for the brand’s latest collaboration with the French model and actress, introducing a new, limited-edition collection of feminine styles and sensual separates.
    Julia Teti, Footwear News, 20 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • This represents a more explicit approach than the February policy change, which allowed erotica in certain contexts but lacked age-gating infrastructure.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 15 Oct. 2025
  • While a reference to Democrats alone likely doesn't constitute a violation of the law, the explicit blaming of their party for the shutdown may, said Michael Fallings, a partner at Tully Rinckey, an employment law firm.
    NPR, NPR, 15 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • But as this story makes clear, absolute immunity has bred a culture of impunity that leaves them above the very law they’re meant to enforce.
    Micah Kimball, Denver Post, 16 Oct. 2025
  • With the surrealist qualities similar to Rene Magritte and the use of light that evokes a certain stillness associated with Edward Hopper, Smith’s technical practice was a quest for absolute perfection, his wife said.
    Rosemary Feitelberg, Footwear News, 16 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Because the only path forward — for Israelis, Palestinians, and all of us watching — is to remember that empathy is not a finite resource.
    Dafna Michaelson Jenet, Denver Post, 12 Oct. 2025
  • Today, Facebook competes with platforms like Twitch and Reddit for the same finite base.
    Roman Axelrod, Fortune, 8 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • There is no deadline or definitive timetable set for completion of the strategic alternatives review process.
    Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 21 Oct. 2025
  • Appearing Wednesday evening on NewsNation, Homan was more definitive.
    Ruth Marcus, New Yorker, 20 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • In a heartfelt tribute shared on Instagram, the princess thanked her mom for her unconditional support.
    Emily Weaver, PEOPLE, 17 Oct. 2025
  • Your love for the city, your team, and its players is unconditional.
    Aaron Portzline, New York Times, 17 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Under the new rules set to take effect later this year, five rare-earth elements were added to China’s existing list of seven other highly restricted rare-earth exports.
    Elisabeth Buchwald, CNN Money, 18 Oct. 2025
  • Ochoa, 40, was placed in a restricted housing unit while the case is under investigation, officials said.
    Sharon Bernstein, Sacbee.com, 15 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Forgery is also about persuasion, and certain forgeries have specific attributes.
    JSTOR Daily, JSTOR Daily, 16 Oct. 2025
  • Instead, they’re built for narrower, specialized tasks—and often shine in specific use cases.
    Sharon Goldman, Fortune, 15 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Definite.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/definite. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025.

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