definitive

[dih-fin-i-tiv] / dɪˈfɪn ɪ tɪv /

ADJECTIVE

authoritative

Synonyms

STRONGEST

actual categorical clear-cut conclusive decisive definite exhaustive precise reliable specific ultimate unambiguous

WEAK

absolute closing complete completing concluding determining downright ending express final finishing flat out last limiting nailed down perfect plain real settling straight out terminal terminating

Antonyms

STRONGEST

ambiguous false imprecise indefinite inexact questionable uncertain vague

WEAK

incomplete inconclusive interim temporary unreliable

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.

Some have pondered if a subtlety here may be that the vetting advice wasn't definitive in its judgement, but the Foreign Office concluded it amounted to Lord Mandelson failing it and others did not.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

"By focusing on how life spreads and interacts with environments, we can search for it without needing a perfect definition or a single definitive signal," said Harrison B. Smith.

From Science Daily • Apr. 15, 2026

“We won’t have definitive evidence of second-round effects for a while,” she said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

That is formidable, but this book is meant to be definitive, and it succeeds in accomplishing that.

From Salon • Apr. 14, 2026

"I heard the queen wants to extend royal beauty restrictions to high-house courtiers. All of us might have to settle for a single definitive look," one woman says.

From "The Belles" by Dhonielle Clayton

Vocabulary lists containing definitive

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