Master confusing words with ease
Definite vs. Definitive
Definite
/ˈdefɪnət/Examples:
The great thing is that we've made a definite decision."Can not you give us something more definite to go upon?'It had no definite organization, officers or abode.
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Antonyms:
Definitive
/dɪˈfɪnətɪv/Examples:
The study provides definitive proof of the theory.Her decision was definitive and unchanging.He issued a definitive statement on the matter.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Ways to tell them apart:
- Definite has an i pronounced like "eye," which is more assertive, similar to being sure of something.
- Definitive has an iv ending that sounds like give, which helps you remember it gives a final conclusion.
- Think of definite as something being defined clearly, while definitive ends the argument or issue with utmost clarity.
- Definite often implies certainty, while definitive indicates completeness or being the most authoritative.
- Imagine you definitely (definite) know what you're doing, and then you write the definitive (definitive) guide on how to do it.
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