Definitive
/dɪˈfɪnɪtɪv/
Definitions
2 meaningsProviding a final and conclusive answer or solution; leaving no room for doubt or debate.
/dɪˈfɪnɪtɪv/
Serving to settle or decide a question or argument conclusively.
The discovery of the fossil provided definitive proof of the animal's existence.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're arguing with a friend about the best pizza topping. If you both agree on something, that's *definitive*. It's settled!
👶 For kids: When something is definitive, it means the answer is the ONLY right answer and it's the end of the discussion.
More Examples
The judge's statement was the definitive ruling on the case.
The new study offered a definitive solution to the problem.
The definitive version of the software will be released next month.
How It's Used
"The Supreme Court's ruling was definitive on the matter of free speech."
"This is considered the definitive biography of the artist."
Having a clear and certain character or meaning; complete and authoritative.
/dɪˈfɪnɪtɪv/
Done or reached decisively and with authority.
The company's definitive proposal addressed all the concerns.
💡 Simply: If you get a definitive answer, you can be sure of it. It's like getting a really good answer to a question.
👶 For kids: Definitive means that is the only answer, and there's no more guessing!
More Examples
The artist's definitive portrait of the president was admired by all.
The definitive edition of the book included all known revisions.
The team made a definitive decision to proceed with the project.
How It's Used
"The artist's final work was a definitive statement about his career."
"The company's definitive strategic plan lays out its course for the next decade."
Idioms & expressions
definitive guide
A comprehensive and authoritative resource providing information on a specific topic.
"The book is considered a definitive guide to birdwatching in the region."
From Late Latin *definitivus*, from *definire* ("to define"), from *de-* ("completely") + *finire* ("to finish, limit").
The word "definitive" emerged in English around the 16th century and was used primarily in legal and scholarly contexts to denote a final or conclusive determination.
Memory tip
Think of the word "final." Something definitive is the final say on the matter.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: definire