Definative vs. Definitive — Which is Correct Spelling?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 3, 2024
"Definative" is an incorrect spelling. The correct version is "definitive," meaning conclusive or final.
Table of Contents
Which is correct: Definative or Definitive
How to spell Definitive?
Definative
Incorrect Spelling
Definitive
Correct Spelling
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Key Differences
The correct spelling has "defin" as its base, similar to "definition."
Think of the phrase: "A definitive answer is a definite one."
Recall that "definitive" starts with "defin-" just like "define."
Note that "definitive" has two 'i's and two 't's.
Remember it as "definite" with an "iv" before the ending.
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How Do You Spell Definitive Correctly?
Incorrect: The movie was a definative portrayal of the historical event.
Correct: The movie was a definitive portrayal of the historical event.
Incorrect: The results were not seen as definative by the scientific community.
Correct: The results were not seen as definitive by the scientific community.
Incorrect: We need a more definative explanation to proceed.
Correct: We need a more definitive explanation to proceed.
Incorrect: They are seeking a definative answer to the problem.
Correct: They are seeking a definitive answer to the problem.
Incorrect: His work is considered the definative guide on the subject.
Correct: His work is considered the definitive guide on the subject.
Definitive Definitions
Serving to define or specify precisely.
His statement was definitive in pinpointing the issue.
The most authoritative of its kind.
That book is the definitive guide on the subject.
Serving to define or identify as distinct from others
"The Enlightenment pushed this project further trying to make science and its hallmark method definitive of the rational life" (Peter Machamer).
Supplying or being a final settlement or decision; conclusive
"The fall of the city Constantine had founded marked the definitive end of the Christian Eastern Empire" (James Carroll).
Authoritative and complete
A definitive biography. See Usage Note at definite.
Mass produced in indefinite quantities over an indefinite period of time. Used of postage stamps.
(Biology) Fully formed or developed, as an organ or structure.
(Grammar) A word that defines or limits, such as the definite article or a demonstrative pronoun.
A definitive postage stamp.
Explicitly defined
Conclusive or decisive
Definitive vote
She will have the definitive say in the matter, after consulting her board of directors.
Definite, authoritative and complete
Limiting; determining
A definitive word
(philately) general, not issued for commemorative purposes
(obsolete) Determined; resolved.
(grammar) a word, such as a definite article or demonstrative pronoun, that defines or limits something
(philately) an ordinary postage stamp that is part of a series of all denominations or is reprinted as needed to meet demand
Determinate; positive; final; conclusive; unconditional; express.
A strict and definitive truth.
Some definitive . . . scheme of reconciliation.
Limiting; determining; as, a definitive word.
Determined; resolved.
A word used to define or limit the extent of the signification of a common noun, such as the definite article, and some pronouns.
Clearly defined or formulated;
The plain and unequivocal language of the laws
Of recognized authority or excellence;
The definitive work on Greece
Classical methods of navigation
Supplying or being a final or conclusive settlement;
A definitive verdict
A determinate answer to the problem
Clearly defined or decided; not vague.
She gave a definitive answer.
Providing a final solution or decision.
A definitive diagnosis was provided by the doctor.
Complete and considered to be the best of its type.
The definitive work on ancient pottery is by Dr. Smith.
Definitive Meaning in a Sentence
The study aims to provide a definitive answer to the question of climate change's impact on weather patterns.
The court's ruling was seen as definitive and left no room for further debate.
Her performance in the finals was definitive, securing her place as the world champion.
This study serves as a definitive guide for future researchers on the topic.
They published a definitive edition of the poet's works.
The biography provides a definitive look at the life of the famous leader.
The book is widely regarded as the definitive reference for beginners in programming.
The documentary offers a definitive account of the political crisis.
He's considered the definitive expert in his field of study.
The artist's latest exhibit is considered his definitive work.
The Supreme Court's decision provided a definitive interpretation of the law.
After years of research, the scientists reached a definitive conclusion about the cause of the disease.
The CEO's statement was a definitive denial of the rumors.
His latest article is seen as making a definitive contribution to the debate.
A definitive diagnosis was achieved after extensive testing.
The agreement represents a definitive step towards peace.
This is the definitive model of the car, featuring all the latest upgrades.
His answer was definitive, leaving no doubt about his intentions.
The test results provided definitive evidence that the theory was correct.
The designer's latest collection is seen as a definitive statement in the fashion industry.
They achieved a definitive victory in the championship game.
This is the definitive collection of her poetry, complete with annotations.
The film's ending is definitive, leaving no questions unanswered.
The treaty marks a definitive end to the conflict.
The conference aims to find definitive solutions to environmental issues.
Common Curiosities
What is the pronunciation of definitive?
/dɪˈfɪnɪtɪv/
Why is it called definitive?
It originates from Latin "definitivus," meaning "defining," and indicates something that sets limits or boundaries.
What is the plural form of definitive?
"Definitives."
Which vowel is used before definitive?
The vowel "i" comes before the ending "tive."
What is the root word of definitive?
"Define."
What is the singular form of definitive?
"Definitive" itself is singular.
Which conjunction is used with definitive?
Conjunctions aren't specifically tied to "definitive."
Is definitive a negative or positive word?
Neutral, but context can determine a positive or negative nuance.
What is the verb form of definitive?
"Define" is the related verb form.
Is definitive an adverb?
No.
Which preposition is used with definitive?
"On" as in "definitive on a subject."
Is definitive a noun or adjective?
Adjective.
Is the definitive term a metaphor?
Not inherently, but it can be used metaphorically.
Which determiner is used with definitive?
"This" or "that" can be used, as in "this definitive guide."
How many syllables are in definitive?
Four.
Is definitive an abstract noun?
No.
Is definitive a countable noun?
"Definitive" is primarily an adjective. When used as a noun, it can be countable (e.g., "several definitives").
Is definitive a collective noun?
No.
What is the first form of definitive?
As an adjective, it doesn't have verb forms.
What is the second form of definitive?
As an adjective, it doesn't have verb forms.
How is definitive used in a sentence?
"This is the definitive book on the topic."
Which article is used with definitive?
Both "a" and "the" can be used, depending on context.
Is definitive a vowel or consonant?
"Definitive" is a word containing both vowels and consonants.
How do we divide definitive into syllables?
de-fin-i-tive.
What part of speech is definitive?
Adjective.
Is the word definitive imperative?
No.
What is a stressed syllable in definitive?
"fin."
What is another term for definitive?
Conclusive.
What is the opposite of definitive?
Ambiguous.
What is the third form of definitive?
As an adjective, it doesn't have verb forms.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
