Definative vs. Definitive — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on September 20, 2023
"Definative" is an incorrect spelling. The correct version is "definitive," meaning conclusive or final.
Difference Between Definative and Definitive
Table of Contents
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Which is correct: Definative or Definitive
How to spell Definitive?
Definative
Incorrect Spelling
Definitive
Correct Spelling
Key Differences
Recall that "definitive" starts with "defin-" just like "define."
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Remember it as "definite" with an "iv" before the ending.
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Think of the phrase: "A definitive answer is a definite one."
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The correct spelling has "defin" as its base, similar to "definition."
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Note that "definitive" has two 'i's and two 't's.
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Compare with Definitions
Definative
Definative is an incorrect spelling of definitive.
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Definitive
Serving to define or specify precisely.
His statement was definitive in pinpointing the issue.
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Definitive
The most authoritative of its kind.
That book is the definitive guide on the subject.
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Definitive
Serving to define or identify as distinct from others
"The Enlightenment pushed this project further trying to make science and its hallmark method definitive of the rational life" (Peter Machamer).
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Definitive
Supplying or being a final settlement or decision; conclusive
"The fall of the city Constantine had founded marked the definitive end of the Christian Eastern Empire" (James Carroll).
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Definitive
Authoritative and complete
A definitive biography. See Usage Note at definite.
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Definitive
Mass produced in indefinite quantities over an indefinite period of time. Used of postage stamps.
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Definitive
(Biology) Fully formed or developed, as an organ or structure.
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Definitive
(Grammar) A word that defines or limits, such as the definite article or a demonstrative pronoun.
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Definitive
A definitive postage stamp.
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Definitive
Explicitly defined
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Definitive
Conclusive or decisive
Definitive vote
She will have the definitive say in the matter, after consulting her board of directors.
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Definitive
Definite, authoritative and complete
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Definitive
Limiting; determining
A definitive word
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Definitive
(philately) general, not issued for commemorative purposes
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Definitive
(obsolete) Determined; resolved.
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Definitive
(grammar) a word, such as a definite article or demonstrative pronoun, that defines or limits something
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Definitive
(philately) an ordinary postage stamp that is part of a series of all denominations or is reprinted as needed to meet demand
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Definitive
Determinate; positive; final; conclusive; unconditional; express.
A strict and definitive truth.
Some definitive . . . scheme of reconciliation.
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Definitive
Limiting; determining; as, a definitive word.
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Definitive
Determined; resolved.
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Definitive
A word used to define or limit the extent of the signification of a common noun, such as the definite article, and some pronouns.
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Definitive
Clearly defined or formulated;
The plain and unequivocal language of the laws
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Definitive
Of recognized authority or excellence;
The definitive work on Greece
Classical methods of navigation
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Definitive
Supplying or being a final or conclusive settlement;
A definitive verdict
A determinate answer to the problem
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Definitive
Clearly defined or decided; not vague.
She gave a definitive answer.
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Definitive
Providing a final solution or decision.
A definitive diagnosis was provided by the doctor.
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Definitive
Complete and considered to be the best of its type.
The definitive work on ancient pottery is by Dr. Smith.
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Common Curiosities
What is the pronunciation of definitive?
/dɪˈfɪnɪtɪv/
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Why is it called definitive?
It originates from Latin "definitivus," meaning "defining," and indicates something that sets limits or boundaries.
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What is the plural form of definitive?
"Definitives."
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Which vowel is used before definitive?
The vowel "i" comes before the ending "tive."
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What is the root word of definitive?
"Define."
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What is the singular form of definitive?
"Definitive" itself is singular.
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Which conjunction is used with definitive?
Conjunctions aren't specifically tied to "definitive."
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Is definitive a negative or positive word?
Neutral, but context can determine a positive or negative nuance.
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What is the verb form of definitive?
"Define" is the related verb form.
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Is definitive an adverb?
No.
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Which preposition is used with definitive?
"On" as in "definitive on a subject."
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Is definitive a noun or adjective?
Adjective.
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Is the definitive term a metaphor?
Not inherently, but it can be used metaphorically.
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Which determiner is used with definitive?
"This" or "that" can be used, as in "this definitive guide."
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How many syllables are in definitive?
Four.
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Is definitive an abstract noun?
No.
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Is definitive a countable noun?
"Definitive" is primarily an adjective. When used as a noun, it can be countable (e.g., "several definitives").
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Is definitive a collective noun?
No.
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What is the first form of definitive?
As an adjective, it doesn't have verb forms.
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What is the second form of definitive?
As an adjective, it doesn't have verb forms.
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How is definitive used in a sentence?
"This is the definitive book on the topic."
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Which article is used with definitive?
Both "a" and "the" can be used, depending on context.
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Is definitive a vowel or consonant?
"Definitive" is a word containing both vowels and consonants.
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How do we divide definitive into syllables?
de-fin-i-tive.
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What part of speech is definitive?
Adjective.
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Is the word definitive imperative?
No.
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What is a stressed syllable in definitive?
"fin."
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What is another term for definitive?
Conclusive.
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What is the opposite of definitive?
Ambiguous.
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What is the third form of definitive?
As an adjective, it doesn't have verb forms.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content editor at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
