Definite vs. Definitive — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 29, 2024
Definite refers to something clearly defined or determined; definitive denotes an authoritative or conclusive nature in its context.
Difference Between Definite and Definitive
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Definite describes an exact, clearly specified condition or fact, emphasizing precision and limitation. On the other hand, definitive carries a sense of finality and authority, often used to describe a resolution or decision that is considered conclusive.
Definite answers or measurements specify exact figures or details, whereas definitive statements or works set standards or resolve debates.
Definite schedules are precisely timed, on the other hand, a definitive biography covers a person's life comprehensively and conclusively.
In mathematics, a definite integral has specific limits, while a definitive guide provides the most comprehensive and best-practiced methods available.
Legal documents may need to be definite in their language to avoid ambiguity, whereas a definitive ruling by a court provides a final decision on a matter.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Clearly stated or decided; not vague or doubtful
(of a conclusion or agreement) done or reached decisively and with authority
Usage in Speech
Describes precision and exactness
Conveys a sense of finality and completeness
Example Context
Exact measurements, specific details
Authoritative texts, conclusive evidence
Connotations
Precision, specificity
Authoritativeness, exhaustiveness
Typical Applications
Scientific data, scheduled events
Historical accounts, legal decisions
Compare with Definitions
Definite
Specified with precision.
The instructions were very definite and easy to follow.
Definitive
Authoritative and final.
The documentary aims to provide a definitive account of the events.
Definite
Fixed and not subject to change.
We have set a definite date for the meeting.
Definitive
Most reliable or complete.
The book is considered the definitive guide on the subject.
Definite
Clearly true or real; unquestionable.
The test results show a definite improvement.
Definitive
Having the power to finally resolve something.
The court issued a definitive ruling.
Definite
Absolute and certain.
She was definite about her decision to move abroad.
Definitive
Serving to define, fix, or specify definitely.
His victory in the championship was definitive.
Definite
Known for certain;
It is definite that they have won
Definitive
Characterized by decisiveness and firmness.
She gave a definitive no to the proposal.
Definite
Clearly defined; explicitly precise
A definite statement of the terms of the will.
Definitive
(of a conclusion or agreement) done or reached decisively and with authority
A definitive decision
Definite
Forthright and unambiguous
The doctor was very definite about what foods you should avoid.
Definitive
(of a postage stamp) for general use and typically of standard design, not special or commemorative.
Definite
Clearly developed or firmly decided
No definite idea of what to do for a career.
Definitive
A definitive postage stamp
Low-value British definitives simply have a portrait of the reigning monarch
Definite
Readily distinguished or certain
At a definite disadvantage.
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).
Definite
(Grammar) Limiting or particularizing.
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).
Definite
Of a fixed number usually less than 20, as certain floral organs, especially stamens.
Definitive
Authoritative and complete
A definitive biography. See Usage Note at definite.
Definite
Cymose; determinate.
Definitive
Mass produced in indefinite quantities over an indefinite period of time. Used of postage stamps.
Definite
Having distinct limits.
Definite dimensions; a definite measure; a definite period or interval
Definitive
(Biology) Fully formed or developed, as an organ or structure.
Definite
Free from any doubt.
Definite knowledge
Definitive
(Grammar) A word that defines or limits, such as the definite article or a demonstrative pronoun.
Definite
Determined; resolved; decided.
Definitive
A definitive postage stamp.
Definite
(linguistics) Designating an identified or immediately identifiable person or thing, or group of persons or things
The definite article
Definitive
Explicitly defined
Definite
(grammar) A word or phrase that designates a specified or identified person or entity.
Definitive
Conclusive or decisive
Definitive vote
She will have the definitive say in the matter, after consulting her board of directors.
Definite
(obsolete) Anything that is defined or determined.
Definitive
Definite, authoritative and complete
Definite
Having certain or distinct; determinate in extent or greatness; limited; fixed; as, definite dimensions; a definite measure; a definite period or interval.
Elements combine in definite proportions.
Definitive
Limiting; determining
A definitive word
Definite
Having certain limits in signification; determinate; certain; precise; fixed; exact; clear; as, a definite word, term, or expression.
Definitive
(philately) general, not issued for commemorative purposes
Definite
Determined; resolved.
Definitive
(obsolete) Determined; resolved.
Definite
Serving to define or restrict; limiting; determining; as, the definite article.
Definitive
(grammar) a word, such as a definite article or demonstrative pronoun, that defines or limits something
Definite
A thing defined or determined.
Definitive
(philately) an ordinary postage stamp that is part of a series of all denominations or is reprinted as needed to meet demand
Definite
Precise; explicit and clearly defined;
I want a definite answer
A definite statement of the terms of the will
A definite amount
Definite restrictions on the sale of alcohol
The wedding date is now definite
A definite drop in attendance
Definitive
Determinate; positive; final; conclusive; unconditional; express.
A strict and definitive truth.
Some definitive . . . scheme of reconciliation.
Definitive
Limiting; determining; as, a definitive word.
Definitive
Determined; resolved.
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.
Definitive
Clearly defined or formulated;
The plain and unequivocal language of the laws
Definitive
Of recognized authority or excellence;
The definitive work on Greece
Classical methods of navigation
Definitive
Supplying or being a final or conclusive settlement;
A definitive verdict
A determinate answer to the problem
Common Curiosities
What is a definitive work in literature?
A definitive work in literature is considered an authoritative and most comprehensive guide or account of a particular subject.
Can a book be both definite and definitive?
Yes, a book can be both definite in its precise details and definitive in its authoritative coverage of a topic.
How do you use definite in a sentence?
You can use it to describe something clearly defined, e.g., a definite answer.
What is an example of a definitive decision?
A Supreme Court's ruling that sets a legal precedent is an example of a definitive decision.
Is a definitive answer always the best answer?
A definitive answer is typically the most authoritative, though not always the 'best' as it depends on context and perspective.
How does definitiveness relate to authority?
Definitiveness relates to authority as it often involves final decisions made with conclusive power.
Can something be definitive but not definite?
Yes, something can be definitive in its authority or completeness but may not be specific or detailed.
What makes a statement definite?
A statement is definite if it is clear and precise with no room for doubt or ambiguity.
Why is it important for legal documents to be definite?
It is crucial for legal documents to be definite to avoid misunderstandings and ensure clarity in legal obligations and rights.
Can a measurement be both definite and definitive?
Yes, a measurement can be definite in its exactness and definitive if it sets a standard.
How can a plan be made more definite?
A plan can be made more definite by specifying clear, detailed steps and timelines.
What is the difference between a definite period and a definitive period in history?
A definite period is precisely dated, while a definitive period might be considered most important or significantly characterizing an era.
Is a definitive guide always accurate?
While a definitive guide is regarded as comprehensive and authoritative, it is not always guaranteed to be entirely accurate.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer 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.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
