Synonyms of definite

definite

adjective

ˈde-fə-nit 

1

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

• limited
• finite
• restricted
• defined
• narrow
• specific
• determinate
• measured
• circumscribed
• bounded
• detailed
• small
• confined
• qualified
• tiny
• fixed
• precise
• exact
• modest
• moderate
• modified
• determined
• settled
• constricted
• puny
• minute

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• indefinite
• infinite
• general
• endless
• unlimited
• dimensionless
• limitless
• immeasurable
• undefined
• boundless
• innumerable
• unbounded
• incalculable
• vague
• countless
• inexhaustible
• unmeasured
• inestimable
• indeterminate
• illimitable
• measureless
• unfathomable
• nebulous
• substantial
• considerable
• unqualified
• unreserved
• bottomless
• large
• great
• major
• extensive
• big
• vast
• enlarged
• sizeable
• copious
• sizable
• plentiful
• expanded
• super
• ample
• broad
• universal
• hefty
• respectable
• voluminous
• whole
• handsome
• goodly
• bulky
• comprehensive
• epic
• jumbo
• oversized
• grandiose
• global
• sweeping
• oversize
• expansive
• inclusive
• bumper
• cosmopolitan
• escalated
• plenitudinous
• largish
• king-size
• hulking
• whacking
• king-sized
• overscaled
• overscale

2

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

• explicit
• definitive
• specific
• express
• unmistakable
• unequivocal
• unambiguous
• literal
• comprehensive
• clear-cut
• complete
• clear
• full
• univocal
• precise
• simple
• specified
• stated
• distinct
• categorical
• comprehensible
• avowed
• certain
• declared
• exhaustive
• exact
• categoric
• sure
• direct
• understandable
• lucid
• intelligible
• well-defined
• straightforward
• plain

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• implicit
• inferred
• implied
• unclear
• dark
• obscure
• ambiguous
• enigmatic
• cryptic
• vague
• incorrect
• indefinite
• circuitous
• inaccurate
• imprecise
• enigmatical
• inexact
• equivocal
• incomprehensible
• unintelligible
• unspecific
• inexplicit

3

as in absolute

having no exceptions or restrictions

the house is a definite bargain by today's standards

Synonyms & Similar Words

• absolute
• unconditional
• complete
• utter
• sheer
• total
• simple
• pure
• perfect
• real
• very
• outright
• damn
• categorical
• profound
• huge
• damned
• thoroughgoing
• thorough
• deadly
• regular
• categoric
• constant
• consummate
• endless
• unmitigated
• dreadful
• stark
• blank
• genuine
• fair
• unadulterated
• clean
• downright
• unalloyed
• unqualified
• crashing
• rank
• straight-out
• eternal
• plumb
• out-and-out
• blooming
• perpetual
• flat-out
• arrant
• flat
• stone
• bodacious
• dead
• veritable
• all-out
• horrible
• terrible
• authentic
• main
• extreme
• classic
• confirmed
• unremitting
• supreme
• undying
• extraordinary
• terrific
• unrestricted
• habitual
• hopeless
• superlative
• inveterate
• frightful
• surpassing

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• uncertain
• doubtful
• questionable
• restricted
• dubious
• qualified
• equivocal

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

Recent Examples of definite

Only time will tell, but there is definite pressure on Darnold with Milroe working for playing time behind him. —Evan Massey, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 June 2025

The Fillers have gone before town officials this past spring to present a concept plan to the Cedar Lake Planning Commission, which included restoring the chapel to be in use, but no definite decisions have been made. —Anna Ortiz, Chicago Tribune, 31 May 2025

More Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images While there are definite reasons for Indiana fans to be nervous, Haliburton is motivated to make sure the Pacers do not drop Game 6 at home. —Evan Massey, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 May 2025

That’s Arcturus, a star that has a definite orange-reddish glow to it. —Mike Lynch, Twin Cities, 25 May 2025