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

Examples 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 While Elba and Reeves were clearly being light-hearted in their response, there's definite demand for more live-action Sonic, whether in film or series form. —

Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 11 Dec. 2024 And inflatable Christmas decorations are a definite no. —

Maura Fox, The Mercury News, 10 Dec. 2024 However, none of these findings are currently definite. —

Korin Miller, Flow Space, 4 Dec. 2024 There are definite issues that will culminate at some point in 2025. —

Brian Mazique, Forbes, 3 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for definite

Recent Examples of Synonyms for definite

Adjective

Chanel last week announced that Matthieu Blazy would be taking over from Virginie Viard as its new creative lead—meaning there are perhaps a limited number of Bottega Veneta placements to come from Rihanna.

Daniel Rodgers, Vogue, 17 Dec. 2024
The actress is next set to star in Thunderbolts and was announced to join a seven-episode limited series based on John Steinbeck’s 1952 novel East of Eden for Netflix.

Lexy Perez, The Hollywood Reporter, 16 Dec. 2024