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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 Those who watched Elio are loving it with a 60% definite recommend from the general audience and 4½ stars. Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 20 June 2025 Albie is a definite contrast from Arthur Pym, one of the most heinous men Hamill’s ever played in his career. Brian Truitt, USA Today, 16 June 2025 She’s Got No Name marks a definite shift in tone and mood for the 40-year veteran who has never been afraid of jumping genres, from the romance of Comrades: Almost a Love Story (1996) to the action of The Warlords (2007) and on to the comedy of American Dreams in China (2013). Mathew Scott, HollywoodReporter, 16 June 2025 Adding to its collection this month is Twin Peaks, director David Lynch’s most definite work. Savannah Salazar, Vulture, 16 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for definite
Recent Examples of Synonyms for definite
Adjective
  • China is on a separate timeline for negotiating with the U.S., with its 90-day pause beginning May 14, though the two countries have already reached a limited deal.
    Miranda Jeyaretnam, Time, 1 July 2025
  • But due to limited funding and disparate systems, data collection and analysis remain a challenge for most states.
    Jean Eddy, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
Adjective
  • Family-friendly Offerings Hotel Marina Riviera doesn’t have any explicit family-minded amenities or offerings at the moment, but the baseline amenities are pretty family-friendly.
    Mae Hamilton, Travel + Leisure, 5 July 2025
  • These systems' enhanced capabilities, however, required explicit instructions.
    Art Gilliland, Forbes.com, 3 July 2025
Adjective
  • Historical practice further refutes the idea that the president’s executive power is absolute.
    Steve Woolpert, Mercury News, 4 July 2025
  • This Week on Max: PCMag's Picks Sinners (July 4) What better way to celebrate America's birthday than with one of the absolute best films of the year?
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 4 July 2025
Adjective
  • Alas, neither of these women can imagine just how finite that time will be.
    David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 2 July 2025
  • Just as a mirror cannot be put back together, Lorde is newly aware that all of this — her relationships, her body, her work — is finite.
    Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 27 June 2025
Adjective
  • Introducing the 2025 Fortune 500, the definitive ranking of the biggest companies in America.
    Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 6 July 2025
  • To be fair, Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story is, well, the definitive inside story.
    Tony Maglio, HollywoodReporter, 4 July 2025
Adjective
  • The report comes a day after the European Council called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, unconditional release of all hostages, and a permanent end to all hostilities.
    Mandy Taheri, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 June 2025
  • Chara appeared in court in London on June 18, and was granted unconditional bail until his next hearing on Aug. 20, meaning that the group could still play at Glastonbury.
    Ellise Shafer, Variety, 28 June 2025
Adjective
  • This was the fourth restricted airspace violation of the day and not the last.
    Jasmine Baehr, FOXNews.com, 6 July 2025
  • This is a difficult market for restricted free agents.
    Anthony Slater, New York Times, 4 July 2025
Adjective
  • Many are created in order to address a concern (dandruff, breakage, brittleness) or to work most effectively for a specific hair type (4C curls, wavy hair, gray hair).
    Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 26 June 2025
  • Flavors can span sweet, bitter, acidic, fatty and creamy, with specific tasting notes that might include cacao, blue cheese, pumpkin, or even bacon or chives.
    Tom Downey, Smithsonian Magazine, 26 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Definite.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/definite. Accessed 10 Jul. 2025.

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