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definite

adj. · n.
US //ˈdɛfənət// UK //dˈɛfɪnət// def·i·nite
  1. 1 certain and clear (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    sure and certain, with no doubt at all.

    free from doubt or ambiguity; clearly stated or decided.

    Example

    We need a definite answer by tomorrow so we can book the flight.

    Example

    The manager provided a definite timeline for the project, leaving no room for the previous ambiguity regarding the launch date.
    Pitfall
    I am definite that he will come.
    I am certain that he will come.

    While 'definite' means certain, we usually use it to describe plans or answers rather than people's feelings. Use 'certain' or 'sure' for people.

  2. 2 having fixed limits (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

    having clear limits or a fixed shape.

    having distinct or fixed limits; clearly defined in form or scope.

    Example

    The square has a definite shape with four equal sides.

    Example

    The research study was confined to a definite geographical area to ensure the data remained manageable for the small team.
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  1. 3 identifying a specific thing (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate Technical Grammar

    used in grammar to talk about a specific person or thing that we already know about.

    designating a specific, identifiable entity or group; typically used in reference to the 'definite article'.

    Example

    In the sentence 'I saw the dog', 'the' is the definite article.

    Example

    The use of the definite article implies that the speaker and listener share a common understanding of which specific object is being discussed.

    Usage

    Usually precedes the noun it modifies.
  2. 4 something certain (n.)
    C1 Advanced Informal

    something that is certain to happen or is already decided.

    a thing that is certain, settled, or beyond question.

    Example

    Is the party happening on Saturday? Yes, it's a definite.

    Example

    While most of the schedule is still being debated, the keynote speaker is a definite for the opening ceremony.
Origin

From Latin dēfīnītus, past participle of dēfīniō, whence also English define.

Word family

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