determinative

adjective

de·​ter·​mi·​na·​tive di-ˈtər-mə-ˌnā-tiv 

-ˈtər-mə-nə-

: having power or tendency to determine : tending to fix, settle, or define something

regard experiments as determinative of the principles from which deductions could be made

—S. F. Mason

determinative noun

Choose the Right Synonym for determinative

conclusive, decisive, determinative, definitive mean bringing to an end.

conclusive applies to reasoning or logical proof that puts an end to debate or questioning.

conclusive evidence

decisive may apply to something that ends a controversy, a contest, or any uncertainty.

a decisive battle

determinative adds an implication of giving a fixed character or direction.

the determinative factor in the court's decision

definitive applies to what is put forth as final and permanent.

the definitive biography

Examples of determinative in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Some people argue that the outcome disenfranchises the California residents whose votes should have been determinative. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024

Research continually demonstrates that candidate gender is not a primary predictor of vote choice, instead showing consistently party as a more determinative factor. —Kelly Dittmar, Forbes, 30 Oct. 2024

Those vote shares could be small but determinative in an election likely to be decided on the margins. —Ashley Lopez, NPR, 25 Sep. 2024

However, the upcoming national elections could be determinative of the bill’s fate. —Adam S. Minsky, Forbes, 23 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1655, in the meaning defined above

Legal Definition

determinative

adjective

de·​ter·​mi·​na·​tive di-ˈtər-mə-ˌnā-tiv, -nə-tiv 

: having the power or tendency to determine

a fact determinative of the issue