definitive

adjective

di-ˈfi-nə-tiv How to pronounce definitive (audio)
Definition of definitivenext
1
as in authoritative
being the most accurate and apparently thorough the definitive work on the attack on Pearl Harbor

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance
2
as in conclusive
serving to put an end to all debate or questioning a definitive answer that put an immediate end to the discussion

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in explicit
so clearly expressed as to leave no doubt about the meaning the insurance company's definitive statement on the types of surgical operations that are covered

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms
4
as in classic
constituting, serving as, or worthy of being a pattern to be imitated Dashiell Hammett's Sam Spade is often cited as the definitive hard-boiled private detective

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of definitive are conclusive, decisive, and determinative. While all these words mean "bringing to an end," definitive applies to what is put forth as final and permanent.

the definitive biography

When is it sensible to use conclusive instead of definitive?

In some situations, the words conclusive and definitive are roughly equivalent. However, conclusive applies to reasoning or logical proof that puts an end to debate or questioning.

conclusive evidence

When is decisive a more appropriate choice than definitive?

The synonyms decisive and definitive are sometimes interchangeable, but decisive may apply to something that ends a controversy, a contest, or any uncertainty.

a decisive battle

When can determinative be used instead of definitive?

The meanings of determinative and definitive largely overlap; however, determinative adds an implication of giving a fixed character or direction.

the determinative factor in the court's decision

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 definitive While there’s not a definitive survey on the reach of crypto in Christian circles, there are indicators of growing interest. —Bracey Harris, NBC news, 28 Mar. 2026 But other signals point in a less definitive direction. —Aidin Vaziri, San Francisco Chronicle, 28 Mar. 2026 Again, there were hints in the data but no definitive conclusions. —Mariangela Lisanti, Twin Cities, 27 Mar. 2026 But for two months no one has given residents a definitive answer regarding whether the weapons have been removed. —Laura Bauer, Kansas City Star, 26 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for definitive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for definitive
  1. authoritative
  2. conclusive
  3. explicit
  4. classic
  5. decisive
  6. definite
  7. exemplary
  8. clear
Adjective
  • These articles add depth to a brand’s digital footprint and act as authoritative signals when AI tools evaluate credibility.
    — Daniel Fusch, USA Today, 1 Apr. 2026
  • Michigan soon may have a more authoritative accounting.
    — CBS News, CBS News, 1 Apr. 2026
Definition of authoritative
Adjective
  • The research isn’t conclusive, however.
    — Jackie Flynn Mogensen, Scientific American, 18 Mar. 2026
  • The broader data is less conclusive on mental health benefits, said West, perhaps because participants get anxious about the programs ending, coupled with the rising cost of living.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 18 Mar. 2026
Definition of conclusive
Adjective
  • The law gives immigration judges significant discretion to suspend public access to court proceedings — they are required to close hearings in matters involving spousal abuse and minor children, for example, unless there’s explicit direction from the affected people to do otherwise.
    — Caroline Kubzansky, Chicago Tribune, 30 Mar. 2026
  • The United States and Israel have pursued a high-stakes geopolitical objective in Iran with the explicit aim of reshaping regional power balances, but the unintended consequence may be an equally profound reshaping of financial market regimes.
    — Michael Khouw, CNBC, 30 Mar. 2026
Definition of explicit
Adjective
  • The Grammy-winning musician made her Broadway debut as Zidler in the classic musical on March 24.
    — Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 1 Apr. 2026
  • The hotel recently completed a thoughtful refresh by design studio FBEYE International, and the result is a property that feels classic and contemporary.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Apr. 2026
Definition of classic
Adjective
  • In these past four weeks, our armed forces have delivered swift, decisive, overwhelming victories on the battlefield victories like few people have ever seen before.
    — James Powel, USA Today, 2 Apr. 2026
  • European luxury is entering a high-stakes first-quarter reporting period as sentiment has taken a decisive hit, just as many of the sector's big names were nearing a turning point after years of declining sales.
    — Elsa Ohlen, CNBC, 2 Apr. 2026
Definition of decisive
Adjective
  • There is a definite buzz of excitement at the press site here at the Kennedy Space Center.
    — Charlie Gile, NBC news, 1 Apr. 2026
  • So far, there isn’t definite evidence of a multiverse based on string theory.
    — Zachary Slepian, The Conversation, 30 Mar. 2026
Definition of definite
Adjective
  • And Sean right now, in that moment, is exemplary in his growth.
    — Ashley Boucher, Entertainment Weekly, 1 Apr. 2026
  • AVs will — literally — drive exemplary behavior on Maryland roads.
    — John Seng, Baltimore Sun, 30 Mar. 2026
Definition of exemplary
Adjective
  • For a metro growing as fast as Charlotte, stores that survive will have clear identity on price, in-store experience or convenience, Lempert said.
    — Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 2 Apr. 2026
  • The board terminated him, and now, for this latest incident to happen, the school board is sending another clear message.
    — Jermont Terry, CBS News, 2 Apr. 2026
Definition of clear

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definitive
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Cite this Entry

“Definitive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/definitive. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.

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Nglish: Translation of definitive for Spanish Speakers

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