Definition of definitenext
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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 Best definite recommends of 66% and 67% are respectively coming from the 25-34 and 45-54 age brackets. Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 5 Sep. 2026 Our first round of the showcase had a definite dumpling theme, which included the dumpling trio from China pavilion and two orders from Gyozas of the Galaxy, including basil pesto chicken (creamy) and street corn-style (sorta spicy). Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 Aug. 2026 Serving a vital manufacturing and export region in China, the Shenzhen facility supports growing cross-border trade, e-commerce shipments and time-definite international express services. Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 18 Aug. 2026 But there are definite issues with trying to juggle everything at the same time. Charles Moss, SPIN, 18 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for definite
Recent Examples of Synonyms for definite
Adjective
  • During the pandemic, car production was capped, and automakers used their limited capacity on building luxury cars, like Maseratis.
    David Freedlander, Curbed, 11 Sep. 2026
  • Powerful Native nations and smaller communities resisted and limited colonial aggression through diplomacy, alliances, petitions and court cases, and wars of resistance.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 11 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Even when the subtext of previous policy suggested suspicion of American Muslims, federal leaders never expressed explicit hostility.
    Daniel Benjamin, Foreign Affairs, 11 Sep. 2026
  • A number of definitions, particularly from this period, drew an explicit connection between Indigenous peoples and European colonialism.
    Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 11 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • But Aly [Turchioe, director of buying] and Trevor [Harvey, buyer] have been an absolute pleasure to work with over the years.
    Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 10 Sep. 2026
  • Other experts say Kim Jong Un, 42, is still too young to designate his heir, a move that could diminish his absolute power.
    ABC News, ABC News, 10 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • OpenAI says one of its internal systems has found a finite-time singularity in the three-dimensional Navier–Stokes equations, potentially resolving one of mathematics’ seven Millennium Prize Problems.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 8 Sep. 2026
  • On a finite graph, crossing the critical probability means the network will become dominated by one large sea of fluid.
    Leila Sloman, Quanta Magazine, 31 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Yet after the definitive collapse of the Islamic State’s territorial project, in most places the idea of global jihad lost its former appeal.
    Daniel Byman, Foreign Affairs, 8 Sep. 2026
  • The researchers stress that the experiment does not identify one definitive pairing mechanism.
    Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 5 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Congressional leaders in both parties are pushing to lock in long-term, unconditional military commitments to Israel.
    Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 6 Sep. 2026
  • The singer’s niece, Lainey Mae Parton, shared an emotional tribute after her grandmother’s burial, remembering the country legend as a source of unconditional love and support.
    Christina Dugan Ramirez, FOXNews.com, 2 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • The money flows into a restricted fund that cannot subsidize general government, and any surplus must be refunded or used to lower fees.
    Fabiola Stuyvesant, Sun Sentinel, 6 Sep. 2026
  • The restricted lanes are expected to include major freeways that cut across Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego counties and connect game venues with the Olympic villages, where athletes and coaches will stay.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 5 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • The researchers focused on a specific material used in aircraft and train interiors, including passenger-cabin flooring.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 6 Sep. 2026
  • Late-stage studies have shown success in directing the immune system to attack tumor-specific mutations.
    Janet Loehrke, USA Today, 6 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Definite.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/definite. Accessed 15 Sep. 2026.

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