Definate vs. Definite: Decoding the Right Spelling
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on December 27, 2023
"Definate" is an incorrect spelling, while "Definite" is correct, meaning clearly stated or decided; not vague or doubtful; certain or sure about something.
Which is correct: Definate or Definite
How to spell Definite?
Definate is Incorrect
Definite is Correct
How to remember correct spelling of Definite?
Associate 'Definite' with 'definition', both sharing the 'defin-' part, helping to remember the correct spelling.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Think of the word 'finite' within 'Definite', reinforcing the correct 'i' instead of 'a'.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Recall that 'Definite' has the same 'i' as in 'definitive', which is another related word.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Practice writing 'Definite' in sentences to reinforce memory through repetition.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Remember that 'finite' means limited, and 'Definite' is just 'de-finite', suggesting clear limits or boundaries.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Definite Definitions
Specific and clear in expression or detail.
The instructions were definite, leaving no room for confusion.
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Dec 14, 2023
Known for sure; established or confirmed.
The date for the event is now definite.
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Dec 14, 2023
Having exact and discernible limits or form.
The boundaries of the property were definite and well-marked.
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Dec 14, 2023
Clearly stated or decided; not ambiguous.
The CEO gave a definite answer to the proposal.
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Dec 14, 2023
Clearly defined; explicitly precise
A definite statement of the terms of the will.
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Oct 19, 2023
Forthright and unambiguous
The doctor was very definite about what foods you should avoid.
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Oct 19, 2023
Clearly developed or firmly decided
No definite idea of what to do for a career.
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Oct 19, 2023
(Grammar) Limiting or particularizing.
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Oct 19, 2023
Of a fixed number usually less than 20, as certain floral organs, especially stamens.
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Oct 19, 2023
Cymose; determinate.
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Oct 19, 2023
Having distinct limits.
Definite dimensions; a definite measure; a definite period or interval
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Oct 19, 2023
Determined; resolved; decided.
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Oct 19, 2023
(linguistics) Designating an identified or immediately identifiable person or thing, or group of persons or things
The definite article
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Oct 19, 2023
(grammar) A word or phrase that designates a specified or identified person or entity.
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Oct 19, 2023
(obsolete) Anything that is defined or determined.
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Oct 19, 2023
Having certain or distinct; determinate in extent or greatness; limited; fixed; as, definite dimensions; a definite measure; a definite period or interval.
Elements combine in definite proportions.
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Oct 19, 2023
Having certain limits in signification; determinate; certain; precise; fixed; exact; clear; as, a definite word, term, or expression.
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Oct 19, 2023
Determined; resolved.
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Oct 19, 2023
Serving to define or restrict; limiting; determining; as, the definite article.
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Oct 19, 2023
A thing defined or determined.
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Oct 19, 2023
Precise; explicit and clearly defined;
I want a definite answer
A definite statement of the terms of the will
A definite amount
Definite restrictions on the sale of alcohol
The wedding date is now definite
A definite drop in attendance
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023
Certain or sure; leaving no doubt.
There was a definite improvement in her performance this semester.
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Dec 14, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Is 'Definate' a correct spelling?
No, 'Definate' is incorrect. The correct spelling is 'Definite'.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
What is the origin of 'Definite'?
'Definite' comes from the Latin 'definitus', meaning 'fixed, set, determined', which is the past participle of 'definire' (to limit, determine).
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Can 'Definite' be used in legal contexts?
Yes, 'Definite' is often used in legal contexts to describe terms or conditions that are clear and unambiguous.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Is 'Definite' a common word in English?
Yes, 'Definite' is a commonly used word, especially in formal and academic contexts.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
What part of speech is 'Definite'?
'Definite' is an adjective, used to describe something clear or certain.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
How can one use 'Definite' in a sentence?
Example: The manager gave a definite timeline for the project's completion.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Why is 'Definate' considered a misspelling?
'Definate' is a common misspelling because it mistakenly replaces the 'i' in 'Definite' with an 'a'.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Are there synonyms for 'Definite'?
Yes, synonyms for 'Definite' include certain, clear, unmistakable, and conclusive.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
What does 'Definite' mean?
'Definite' means something that is clear, certain, and not vague or doubtful.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Is 'Definite' used differently in British and American English?
No, 'Definite' is used similarly in both British and American English.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
How does 'Definite' relate to 'Definitive'?
'Definite' implies clearness and certainty, while 'Definitive' means conclusive or decisive, often considered the most authoritative.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
What is a common mistake in spelling 'Definite'?
A common mistake is spelling 'Definite' as 'Definate', which is incorrect.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Does 'Definite' have any derivatives?
Yes, derivatives include 'definitely' (adverb) and 'definiteness' (noun).
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Does 'Definite' have an antonym?
Yes, an antonym of 'Definite' is 'indefinite', meaning not clear or certain.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
Can 'Definite' describe a time frame?
Yes, 'Definite' can be used to describe a specific and clear time frame.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 27, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.