# categorical

/ˌkætəˈɡɑɹɪkəɫ/ (US) · /kˌætɪɡˈɒɹɪkəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/categorical
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

describing something that is completely certain or absolute. You use this to say that there is no doubt or room for different opinions.

For teachers: expressing a firm, absolute, or unconditional statement; not admitting of exceptions or alternatives. Often used to describe a statement or a classification that is clear and definitive.

## Examples

- The doctor gave a categorical answer to the patient's question.
- The committee issued a categorical statement that the new policy would not be changed during the current year.
- The witness provided a categorical denial of the allegations, leaving no room for the defense to argue that he had been present at the scene.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.