Definitions

categorical

[kat-i-gawr-i-kuhl, -gor-] / ˌkæt ɪˈgɔr ɪ kəl, -ˈgɒr- /

ADJECTIVE

explicit, unconditional

Synonyms

STRONGEST

absolute clear-cut definite definitive emphatic forthright unambiguous unequivocal

WEAK

all out certain direct downright express flat out no holds barred no strings attached positive specific straight out sure ultimate unmitigated unqualified unreserved

Antonyms

STRONGEST

ambiguous equivocal indefinite indistinct inexact uncertain vague

WEAK

conditional implied qualified questionable tentative uncategorical

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"Kim's core message was a categorical rejection of reports of US-China discussions on North Korean denuclearisation as 'false information'", he said.

From Barron's • Jun. 7, 2026

Under the handball law that should automatically lead to the goal being disallowed but, as Webb explained, the VAR did not feel he could be "absolutely categorical" about it.

From BBC • May 14, 2026

The measure passed Wednesday stops short of a categorical ban that some have sought, but was still met with cautious optimism by traffic safety reformers.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

It would be insulting to make broad categorical claims about the Catholic church as a whole.

From Salon • Apr. 5, 2026

All the air of the fourteenth floor was sibilant with the categorical imperative.

From "Brave New World" by Aldous Huxley

Vocabulary lists containing categorical

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Break It Down: Cata

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