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definitive

adj. · n.
US //dɪˈfɪnɪtɪv// UK //dɪfˈɪnɪtˌɪv// de·fin·i·tive
  1. 1 authoritative and complete (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the best and most complete version of something that everyone trusts.

    providing a firm conclusion or being the most authoritative of its kind.

    Example

    This is the definitive book on the history of jazz.

    Example

    Scholars consider this biography to be the definitive account of the poet's life, as it incorporates previously undiscovered letters and journals.

    Usage

    often used to describe books, biographies, or studies.

    Teacher's tip

    Learners often confuse this with 'definite'. While 'definite' means certain, 'definitive' means it is the final, highest-quality version.
  2. 2 final and decisive (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a final decision or answer that ends all doubt or talking.

    conclusive and final; bringing an end to a process or debate.

    Example

    The court gave a definitive ruling on the case yesterday.

    Example

    The laboratory results provided definitive proof that the water supply had been contaminated by industrial runoff.
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  1. 3 standard postage stamp (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical

    a regular stamp used for everyday mail, not a special one for a holiday.

    a postage stamp issued as part of a regular series for indefinite use, rather than a commemorative issue.

    Example

    He added a common definitive to his stamp collection.

    Example

    While commemorative stamps attract casual collectors, serious philatelists often focus on the subtle plate variations found in long-running definitives.

    Usage

    usually used by collectors or postal workers.
    • standard issue
  2. 4 limiting word (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Academic Science

    a word like 'the' or 'this' that points to a specific thing.

    a word, such as a definite article or demonstrative, that serves to define or limit the reference of a noun.

    Example

    The teacher explained how a definitive helps identify a specific noun.

    Example

    The linguist argued that the definitive functions as a functional head within the noun phrase structure.

    Usage

    used in formal linguistic analysis.

    Teacher's tip

    In modern grammar, these are more commonly referred to as 'determiners'.
    • determiner
Origin

From Middle French définitif.

Word family

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