DEFINITE Synonyms: 218 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'definite' distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of definite are explicit , express , and specific . While all these words mean "perfectly clear in meaning," definite stresses precise, clear statement or arrangement that leaves no doubt or indecision. // the law is definite in such cases

Q: When could 'explicit' be used to replace 'definite'?

The meanings of explicit and definite largely overlap; however, explicit implies such verbal plainness and distinctness that there is no need for inference and no room for difficulty in understanding. // explicit instructions

Q: Where would 'express' be a reasonable alternative to 'definite'?

The words express and definite are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, express implies both explicitness and direct and positive utterance. // her express wishes

Q: When would 'specific' be a good substitute for 'definite'?

While in some cases nearly identical to definite , specific applies to what is precisely and fully treated in detail or particular. // two specific criticisms

definite

adjective

ˈde-fə-nit

Definition of definite next

as in limited

having distinct or certain limits there should be a definite scope to your paper on the campaign for women's rights because you obviously cannot cover the whole history in five pages

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in explicit

so clearly expressed as to leave no doubt about the meaning a definite instruction not to let anyone in the house while the parents were out for the evening

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in absolute

having no exceptions or restrictions the house is a definite bargain by today's standards

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word definite distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of definite are explicit, express, and specific. While all these words mean "perfectly clear in meaning," definite stresses precise, clear statement or arrangement that leaves no doubt or indecision.

the law is definite in such cases

When could explicit be used to replace definite?

The meanings of explicit and definite largely overlap; however, explicit implies such verbal plainness and distinctness that there is no need for inference and no room for difficulty in understanding.

explicit instructions

Where would express be a reasonable alternative to definite?

The words express and definite are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, express implies both explicitness and direct and positive utterance.

her express wishes

When would specific be a good substitute for definite?

While in some cases nearly identical to definite, specific applies to what is precisely and fully treated in detail or particular.

two specific criticisms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of definite There is a definite need to confront and overtake that salvo. —

Lance Eliot, Forbes, 18 Jan. 2025 Engineering the First Fitbit: The Inside Story Peter DaSilva/The New York Times/Redux IEEE Spectrum senior editor Tekla S. Perry, who joined the magazine in 1979, took a well-deserved retirement this year—but not before writing the definite story on Fitbit’s ascendent to wearable dominance. —

IEEE Spectrum, 25 Dec. 2024 Ultimately, though, this is an out-of-favour player arriving on loan for five months, so there is a definite ceiling to the excitement. —

Alex Brodie, The Athletic, 6 Jan. 2025 This one looks like a definite must-see for families. —

Lynnette Nicholas, Parents, 6 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for definite

Recent Examples of Synonyms for definite

Adjective

There were dozens of producers across the country making single malt whiskey but distribution was limited, products were young and pricing wasn’t particularly attractive relative to other single malt products on store shelves.

— Chris Perugini, Forbes, 16 Jan. 2025
Founded in 1999 by star designer Stephen Sousa, the firm began with a focus on restaurant design during a time when economic opportunities were quite limited.

— Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 16 Jan. 2025