Definative vs. Definitive: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on September 26, 2023
"Definative" is an incorrect spelling; the correct spelling is "definitive," which means conclusive or final.
Which is correct: Definative or Definitive
How to spell Definitive?
Definative is Incorrect
Definitive is Correct
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Key Differences
The correct word "definitive" has 'i's surrounding the 'n,' like the word 'infinite.'
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
"Definitive" contains the word 'finite,' which is spelled with an 'i.'
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
It has the same root as "define," so think of "defin-itive."
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
Remember that definitive has the same 'tive' ending as 'active' and 'positive.'
Aimie Carlson
Sep 25, 2023
Pronounce it as "dih-FIN-ih-tiv" to help remember its spelling.
Harlon Moss
Sep 25, 2023
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Definative and Definitive Definitions
Definitive
Serving to end an unsettled matter.
The judge's decision was definitive.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 16, 2023
Definitive
Serving to define or specify precisely.
He gave a definitive diagnosis.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 16, 2023
Definitive
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).
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 13, 2023
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Definitive
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).
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 13, 2023
Definitive
Authoritative and complete
A definitive biography. See Usage Note at definite.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 13, 2023
Definitive
Mass produced in indefinite quantities over an indefinite period of time. Used of postage stamps.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 13, 2023
Definitive
(Grammar) A word that defines or limits, such as the definite article or a demonstrative pronoun.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 13, 2023
Definitive
Conclusive or decisive
Definitive vote
She will have the definitive say in the matter, after consulting her board of directors.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 13, 2023
Definitive
(grammar) a word, such as a definite article or demonstrative pronoun, that defines or limits something
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 13, 2023
Definitive
(philately) an ordinary postage stamp that is part of a series of all denominations or is reprinted as needed to meet demand
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 13, 2023
Definitive
Determinate; positive; final; conclusive; unconditional; express.
A strict and definitive truth.
Some definitive . . . scheme of reconciliation.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 13, 2023
Definitive
A word used to define or limit the extent of the signification of a common noun, such as the definite article, and some pronouns.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 13, 2023
Definitive
Clearly defined or formulated;
The plain and unequivocal language of the laws
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 13, 2023
Definitive
Of recognized authority or excellence;
The definitive work on Greece
Classical methods of navigation
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 13, 2023
Definitive
Supplying or being a final or conclusive settlement;
A definitive verdict
A determinate answer to the problem
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 13, 2023
Definitive
Conclusive or final in nature.
This is the definitive answer to the question.
Janet White
Sep 16, 2023
FAQs
What is the verb form of definitive?
There's no verb form; it's an adjective.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
Why is it called definitive?
Derived from Latin "definitivus," meaning "limiting, defining."
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
Which conjunction is used with definitive?
"And," as in "definitive and conclusive."
Aimie Carlson
Sep 25, 2023
Which preposition is used with definitive?
"On," as in "definitive on the subject."
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
Is definitive a negative or positive word?
Generally considered neutral; context-dependent.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
What is the first form of definitive?
Definitive (it's an adjective, so it doesn't have verb forms).
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
How is definitive used in a sentence?
"The research paper was definitive in establishing the new theory."
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
Which determiner is used with definitive?
"The," as in "the definitive answer."
Aimie Carlson
Sep 25, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
