determinative

Synonym Chooser

How is the word determinative different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of determinative are conclusive, decisive, and definitive. While all these words mean "bringing to an end," determinative adds an implication of giving a fixed character or direction.

the determinative factor in the court's decision

When could conclusive be used to replace determinative?

The words conclusive and determinative can be used in similar contexts, but conclusive applies to reasoning or logical proof that puts an end to debate or questioning.

conclusive evidence

When might decisive be a better fit than determinative?

Although the words decisive and determinative have much in common, decisive may apply to something that ends a controversy, a contest, or any uncertainty.

a decisive battle

Where would definitive be a reasonable alternative to determinative?

While in some cases nearly identical to determinative, definitive applies to what is put forth as final and permanent.

the definitive biography

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 determinative Although the regulation explicitly states that no one factor is determinative, the case law tells a somewhat different story. Peter J Reilly, Forbes.com, 18 May 2025 That naturally leads to early clues, even if those clues aren’t determinative. Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 7 May 2025 The United States can now present itself as a global energy provider, although location, logistics, and infrastructure are determinative factors. Ken Silverstein, Forbes, 20 Jan. 2025 The Democratic response or lack thereof to Republicans and the Trump agenda will be determinative of voters' enthusiasm to turn out for them in the coming midterm year -- their next big hope to reclaim some power. Averi Harper, ABC News, 14 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for determinative
Recent Examples of Synonyms for determinative
Adjective
  • Read More: Why Food Chemicals Are a Problem—And How to Reduce Your Exposure That’s not to say genes are entirely dispositive; having genes associated with the condition does not mean a child will inevitably develop it.
    Jeffrey Kluger, Time, 18 Apr. 2025
  • The simple fact that American technology companies are some of the largest companies in the world and thus will necessarily see larger levies is not dispositive of some sort of anti-American bias.
    Andrew Leahey, Forbes, 24 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Campbell’s talent and tape are indisputable, but so is his mediocre arm length.
    Eddie Brown, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 Apr. 2025
  • What's indisputable is that one pull factor for the U.S. is Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's long, complicated relationship with recent American presidents.
    Kim Hjelmgaard, USA Today, 22 June 2025
Adjective
  • Then space your determinate tomatoes out by 18 to 24 inches per plant and your indeterminate tomato plants 18 inches apart.
    Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 30 Mar. 2025
  • Then space your determinate tomatoes out by 18 to 24 inches per plant and your indeterminate tomato plants 18 inches apart.
    Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 30 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Second, combining data from different IoT devices revealed incontestable details of Alex Murdaugh’s activities.
    David Sella-Villa, The Conversation, 24 June 2025
  • The imperatives of tying India’s economic fortunes more closely to the transformations occurring in these regions are therefore incontestable, especially because India already faces strong impediments to translating its natural dominance within South Asia into lasting local hegemony.
    ASHLEY J. TELLIS, Foreign Affairs, 17 June 2025
Adjective
  • Because there is an unquestionable love for the material and a passion for the goofier, larger-than-life scenarios of comic book lore.
    Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 8 July 2025
  • Country music's most beloved radio program is an unquestionable American pop cultural institution.
    Marcus K. Dowling, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025
Adjective
  • The allure is undeniable: leverage local capital and expertise to build your brand across continents while generating substantial revenue streams.
    Mohaimina Haque, Forbes.com, 9 July 2025
  • Black women make up just 2% of certified agents, but their impact on the industry is undeniable.
    Essence, Essence, 7 July 2025
Adjective
  • Sunday’s celebration over a second straight Stanley Cup is the irrefutable proof Zito was right to boldly change what had just won a Presidents’ Trophy — to fix what didn’t seem broken but was — and hire Maurice to shepherd that transformation.
    Greg Cote, Miami Herald, 22 June 2025
  • The former first lady’s irrefutable star power is also the exception: Since the late 2000s, Sherald has built her career by depicting everyday Black Americans, becoming a leader among a generation committed to representing those previously overlooked by our art institutions.
    Julie Belcove, Robb Report, 10 June 2025
Adjective
  • Lush greenery in wicker creates a cottage feel Wicker retaining walls add indubitable charm.
    Katherine McLaughlin, Architectural Digest, 18 Apr. 2025
  • The DeSantis announcement is an indubitable win for Musk.
    Scott Nover, Quartz, 24 May 2023

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Cite this Entry

“Determinative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/determinative. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025.

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