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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 The jobs are not being eliminated, but the workers will have no definite return date. Jackie Charniga, USA Today, 11 Apr. 2025 The only definite thing is that an abdication would be a significant departure from all tradition. Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 11 Apr. 2025 An early version of o1 scored 18 percent on ARC-AGI—a definite improvement, but still well below human performance. Matteo Wong, The Atlantic, 4 Apr. 2025 That warrants definite watching to see if yet another brilliant scheme by Kyle and Kamilla can take hold. Dalton Ross, EW.com, 10 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for definite
Recent Examples of Synonyms for definite
Adjective
  • The doughnut chain has announced a new Craving Cheesecake Collection of doughnuts, sold individually and by the dozen, available for a limited time starting April 22.
    Mike Snider, USA Today, 23 Apr. 2025
  • Fewer Chinese young people will likely be studying in the West, and the already small number of Westerners who do so in China will remain limited.
    RANA MITTER, Foreign Affairs, 22 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Norris steps out of the aisle and appears to direct two other men in, though no explicit order could be heard.
    Kinsey Crowley, USA Today, 23 Apr. 2025
  • Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards has been fined $50,000 by the NBA for an explicit verbal exchange with a Los Angeles Lakers fan during Game 1 of their first-round playoff series.
    Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 23 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Hairston is an absolute burner who ran a 4.28 at the combine and despite his smallish weight, is a very long corner with near 32-inch arms.
    Joe Buscaglia, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2025
  • And the week-long party that had been taking place in Green Bay turned into absolute bedlam.
    Rob Reischel, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Limit contractors' access rights to a finite period, like three months.
    Benoit Grangé, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025
  • Until there are some honest conversations and leadership at all levels of government in Colorado about the limits to growth that are tied to finite water resources, the conversations about saving the Colorado River and other water sources are just for show.
    DP Opinion, Denver Post, 12 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Crypto Confidential: Forbes' definitive guide to crypto and blockchain, delivered to your inbox every Saturday.
    Azeem Khan, Forbes.com, 24 Apr. 2025
  • While that’s a definitive move, there are also questions about a different Republican House member: Could Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) try to challenge New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D)?
    Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 23 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Speaking on his arrival in London with the foreign and defence ministers, Ukrainian presidential adviser Andriy Yermak said the talks would focus on ways to achieve a full and unconditional ceasefire as a first step to peace.
    Elizabeth Piper, USA Today, 24 Apr. 2025
  • At the same time, Becky Conner (Goranson) learned the true meaning of unconditional love after becoming a mom.
    Emily Weaver, People.com, 23 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • As things stand, that is certainly up in the air, especially with him set to he a restricted free agent after the season.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Apr. 2025
  • If the recipient isn’t a Gmail user, however, they are presented with an invite to view the email within a restricted version of Gmail, using a Google Workspace guest account.
    Davey Winder, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Though, when looking at specific issues, that confidence drops further.
    Callie Patteson, The Washington Examiner, 27 Apr. 2025
  • Readers should not rely solely on the content of this article and are encouraged to seek professional advice tailored to their specific circumstances.
    William Jones, USA Today, 27 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Definite.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/definite. Accessed 1 May. 2025.

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