determinative

Synonym Chooser

How is the word determinative different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of determinative are conclusive, decisive, and definitive. While all these words mean "bringing to an end," determinative adds an implication of giving a fixed character or direction.

the determinative factor in the court's decision

When could conclusive be used to replace determinative?

The words conclusive and determinative can be used in similar contexts, but conclusive applies to reasoning or logical proof that puts an end to debate or questioning.

conclusive evidence

When might decisive be a better fit than determinative?

Although the words decisive and determinative have much in common, decisive may apply to something that ends a controversy, a contest, or any uncertainty.

a decisive battle

Where would definitive be a reasonable alternative to determinative?

While in some cases nearly identical to determinative, definitive applies to what is put forth as final and permanent.

the definitive biography

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 determinative 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 Four borough presidents are now also on board, but the actual determinative vote will come later this year with a vote by the City Council. New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 12 July 2024 As the horse race shows, those views may not be determinative. Gary Langer, ABC News, 11 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for determinative 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for determinative
Adjective
  • And this Court should not be thrust into a race with the Southern District of Mississippi to decide the critical factual issues that are dispositive of both actions.
    Audrey Gibbs, USA TODAY, 12 Nov. 2024
  • Trusted authorities are essential but never dispositive.
    Cory Franklin, Chicago Tribune, 11 Oct. 2024
Adjective
  • Competitive Edge and Future Prospects Dubai’s competitive advantage in luxury real estate is indisputable.
    Arash Jalili, Forbes, 12 Dec. 2024
  • Still, ValĂ©ry’s eminence as a modernist is indisputable.
    Benjamin Kunkel, The New Yorker, 9 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • Perez was serving a determinate term for assault with a firearm and gang activity, authorities said.
    Nate Gartrell, The Mercury News, 20 Sep. 2024
  • Tomato plants are either determinate or indeterminate.
    Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 May 2024
Adjective
  • But for me, the main question isn’t necessarily the badness of the situation, which is incontestable.
    Sean Illing, Vox, 15 Oct. 2024
  • In recent decades, neuroscientists have wrenched this millennia-old question from the grip of philosophers, recognizing that the connection between neuronal activity and conscious experience is incontestable.
    Lindsey Laughlin, Ars Technica, 10 July 2024
Adjective
  • Murphy is a powerhouse in Small Things Like These, and while the actor’s talent is unquestionable, his subtle, heartbreaking and yet restrained performance is brought even more to life when his character has to face Sister Mary, played by an impressively terrifying Emily Watson.
    Maelle Beauget-Uhl, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024
  • His impact on the success of the Eagles is unquestionable.
    Brooks Kubena, The Athletic, 25 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • His resume and impact on the gridiron is undeniable.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 12 Dec. 2024
  • As Milwaukee works to reestablish themselves as a bona fide Finals contender, Middleton’s impact will be undeniable.
    Brian Sampson, Forbes, 12 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • This video became a cornerstone of the prosecution’s case, providing irrefutable proof that Alex was lying about his whereabouts that night.
    Lars Daniel, Forbes, 4 Dec. 2024
  • In an effort to be exonerated from the murder of Harrison, Gutierrez asserts that DNA analysis of evidence collected at the crime scene can serve as irrefutable proof of his innocence.
    Marley Malenfant, Austin American-Statesman, 16 July 2024
Adjective
  • The DeSantis announcement is an indubitable win for Musk.
    Scott Nover, Quartz, 24 May 2023
  • There is all of a sudden one Way of Knowing which presents us with indubitable truths.
    Razib Khan, Discover Magazine, 13 Dec. 2010

Thesaurus Entries Near determinative

Cite this Entry

“Determinative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/determinative. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on determinative

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