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.

Categorical clemency grants framed only in terms of qualifying criteria require would-be beneficiaries to come forward and prove that they qualify.

From Slate • Jul. 18, 2025

Categorical propositions of the sort Aristotle was considering are normal in day-to-day reasoning.

From Salon • Jul. 29, 2024

Decoding Topology Terilla and Bradley also collaborated with mathematician and data scientist Tyler Bryson on the textbook, Topology: A Categorical Approach.

From Scientific American • Apr. 26, 2021

“We seem to be governed by expediency and doublethink and it’s reassuring to know that Kant’s Categorical Imperative is known and thought important,” he said.

From The Guardian • Nov. 10, 2015

It was much used in Mediæval Disputation, and is still more popular than the Categorical Syllogism.

From Logic, Inductive and Deductive by Minto, William

Vocabulary lists containing categorical

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Break It Down: Cata

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