1
as in authoritative
being the most accurate and apparently thorough the definitive work on the attack on Pearl Harbor

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word definitive different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of definitive are conclusive, decisive, and determinative. While all these words mean "bringing to an end," definitive applies to what is put forth as final and permanent.

the definitive biography

When is it sensible to use conclusive instead of definitive?

In some situations, the words conclusive and definitive are roughly equivalent. However, conclusive applies to reasoning or logical proof that puts an end to debate or questioning.

conclusive evidence

When is decisive a more appropriate choice than definitive?

The synonyms decisive and definitive are sometimes interchangeable, but decisive may apply to something that ends a controversy, a contest, or any uncertainty.

a decisive battle

When can determinative be used instead of definitive?

The meanings of determinative and definitive largely overlap; however, determinative adds an implication of giving a fixed character or direction.

the determinative factor in the court's decision

Examples of definitive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Alexandra Johnes Mixing lyrical animation of her influential works and expressive voice-over, Frida is a definitive film about the iconic twentieth-century Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. Anne Thompson, IndieWire, 17 Oct. 2024 The 304-page volume is a definitive in-person account of the late, great Detroit band, overseen by veteran editors Jaan Uhelszki and Brad Tolinski, based on work begun by the late rock journalist Ben Edmonds. Brian McCollum, Detroit Free Press, 17 Oct. 2024 Despite the apparent warning signs, a definitive motive for the massacre remains unclear. Erik Ortiz, NBC News, 15 Oct. 2024 However, Samuels notes, while all this research is certainly promising, there hasn’t been enough to make any definitive recommendations. Jana Ackermann, Glamour, 7 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for definitive 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'definitive.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Thesaurus Entries Near definitive

Cite this Entry

“Definitive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/definitive. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

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