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Definative vs. Definitive: Decoding the Right Spelling

Dua Fatima
Edited by Hifza Nasir || By Dua Fatima || Published on June 27, 2024
Definative is incorrect spelling while definitive is correct, meaning providing a final solution or end to a situation.
Definative vs. Definitive

Which is correct: Definative or Definitive

How to spell Definitive?

Definative is Incorrect

Definitive is Correct

How to remember correct spelling of Definitive?

Visualize a judge banging a gavel, making a "definitive" ruling, highlighting the finality implicit in the correct spelling.
Hifza Nasir
Hifza Nasir
Jun 27, 2024
Link "definitive" with "definite," as both share a root and similar spelling, unlike "definative."
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Jun 27, 2024
Remember "definitive" contains "finite," suggesting something conclusive or final, which aligns with its meaning.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Jun 27, 2024
Associate "definitive" with similar words that use "-ive," like "descriptive" or "persuasive," not "-ative."
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Jun 27, 2024
Break it down phonetically as "de-fini-tive," emphasizing the 'i' sounds, not "de-fina-tive."
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Jun 27, 2024

How to use Definitive correctly in a sentence?

Incorrect: This is the definative guide to cooking pasta.
Correct: This is the definitive guide to cooking pasta.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Jun 27, 2024
Incorrect: Her response was seen as the definative statement on the controversy.
Correct: Her response was seen as the definitive statement on the controversy.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Jun 27, 2024
Incorrect: We need a definative answer before proceeding.
Correct: We need a definitive answer before proceeding.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Jun 27, 2024
Incorrect: That's the definative edition of the novel.
Correct: That's the definitive edition of the novel.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Jun 27, 2024
Incorrect: The study provides definative evidence on the matter.
Correct: The study provides definitive evidence on the matter.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Jun 27, 2024

Definitive Definitions

Representing the best, most complete, or most reliable
This book is the definitive guide to bird species.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023
Specifying with precision or certainty
The tests gave a definitive diagnosis.
Hifza Nasir
Hifza Nasir
Oct 23, 2023
Absolutely authoritative or conclusive
His findings were the definitive proof in the case.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023
Not subject to any future modification or revision
The treaty marked a definitive end to the conflict.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023
Serving to define or outline with exactness
The artist’s style is definitive of this era.
Hifza Nasir
Hifza Nasir
Oct 23, 2023

Definitive Example Sentences

The scientist needed definitive proof before announcing her findings.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023
The court provided a definitive ruling on the matter.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
His victory was the definitive moment in the tournament.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023
The documentary was definitive, leaving no question unanswered.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023
The biography was the definitive account of her life.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
We need a definitive plan before we proceed.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 23, 2023
The librarian recommended the definitive book on ancient Egypt.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023
They reached a definitive agreement after hours of negotiation.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023
We’re waiting for a definitive answer from the council.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023
The test results were definitive, so treatment could begin.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023
The definitive collection of her works is exhibited in the museum.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023
Her definitive tone left no room for argument.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023
This is the definitive version of the software.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023
The treaty was definitive, ending all hostilities.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023

Definitive Phrases

Definitive echo

A statement or idea that definitively confirms what was suspected.
His confession served as a definitive echo of all previous suspicions.
Hifza Nasir
Hifza Nasir
Oct 23, 2023

Definitive draw

Reaching a conclusion that's undeniable and accepted by all.
After much debate, the definitive draw was that they'd share the prize.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023

Definitive taste

An experience or event that leaves an indelible impression.
Her first victory gave her a definitive taste of success.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023

Definitive dawn

A moment of sudden clarity or revelation.
When she explained the formula, it was a definitive dawn for the entire class.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023

Definitive waters

Entering into a situation or stage where there's no turning back.
By signing the contract, he knew he was sailing into definitive waters.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 23, 2023

Definitive roots

Foundational elements that unequivocally define something's nature.
His integrity and grit were seen as his definitive roots.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023

Definitive waves

Actions or movements that create irreversible effects.
The protests made definitive waves across the socio-political landscape.
Hifza Nasir
Hifza Nasir
Oct 23, 2023

Definitive shadow

An influence or standard that's impossible to escape.
Her legacy as a writer cast a definitive shadow over the genre.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023

Definitive sky

A future or vision that’s clear and unquestionable.
After the breakthrough, they were all heading towards a definitive sky.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023

Definitive leap

A decisive action that propels someone into a certain future.
Taking that job in Europe was the definitive leap of her career.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023

Definitive winds

Forces or influences that solidify a particular outcome.
The definitive winds of change pushed the company towards a new era.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023

Definitive fire

A passion or drive that leads to conclusive results.
She pursued her goals with a definitive fire that inspired others.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 23, 2023

Definitive feathers

Accolades or characteristics that conclusively distinguish someone.
Winning the Nobel Prize added another definitive feather to her cap.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023

Definitive voice

A manner of speaking or communicating that’s authoritative and final.
When he spoke in his definitive voice, everyone knew the discussion was over.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023

Definitive ears

The trait of listening in a way that leads to clear understanding.
With her definitive ears, she resolved conflicts that baffled others.
Hifza Nasir
Hifza Nasir
Oct 23, 2023

Definitive colors

Qualities or traits that definitively describe someone or something.
In times of crisis, he showed his definitive colors through leadership.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023

Definitive horizon

A goal or future that is clear and undeniable.
Together, they worked toward a definitive horizon of prosperity.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023

Definitive strings

Controlling factors that determine a particular outcome.
Behind the scenes, he pulled the definitive strings of the operation.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023

Definitive keys

Crucial elements or factors that lock in a certain outcome.
Mastery of the basics were the definitive keys to his mastery in piano.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Oct 23, 2023

Definitive heart

The undeniable core or essence of something.
Compassion, for her, was the definitive heart of healthcare.
Hifza Nasir
Hifza Nasir
Oct 23, 2023

Repeatedly Asked Queries

Can "definitive" be used in both formal and informal contexts?

Yes, "definitive" is appropriate in both formal and informal contexts. Its use is prevalent in formal writing when providing final, authoritative information or conclusions, but it can be equally used in informal dialogue to convey certainty or finality.
Hifza Nasir
Hifza Nasir
Jun 27, 2024

How does "definitive" function grammatically in a sentence?

"Definitive" functions as an adjective in a sentence, meaning it describes a noun or pronoun. It specifies the nature of the noun as being final, conclusive, or representing a standard of authority.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Jun 27, 2024

Is there any difference in pronunciation between "definative" and "definitive"?

While "definative" would theoretically be pronounced with a softer 'a' sound, like in "cave," "definitive" is correctly pronounced with a short 'i' sound, like in "give." However, since "definative" is not a recognized correct spelling, its pronunciation is speculative and not standardized.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Jun 27, 2024

What's the origin of the word "definitive"?

The word "definitive" originated from the Late Latin "definitivus," meaning "defining, definitive," from the Latin "definire," meaning "to limit, determine, define." This history underscores its meaning related to providing a conclusion or finality.
Hifza Nasir
Hifza Nasir
Jun 27, 2024

What is the synonym for "definitive" that is closest in meaning?

A close synonym to "definitive" is "conclusive," as both words imply an element of finality or decisiveness that prevents further questioning or debate.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Jun 27, 2024

Why is it common for people to misspell "definitive" as "definative"?

It's common due to a phenomenon called "phonetic spelling," where individuals spell words the way they sound. Since the 'i' in "definitive" can sound like 'a' in some accents or fast speech, people may incorrectly write "definative."
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Jun 27, 2024

How does "definitive" relate to certainty and authority in its usage?

"Definitive" implies an authoritative standard or a conclusion that's considered reliable and beyond question. It's used to convey a sense of finality and certainty in the information provided.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Jun 27, 2024

Can "definitive" be used in a negative sense?

While "definitive" itself is neutral, it can be used in negative contexts, especially when referring to an undesirable yet final decision or outcome, such as a "definitive end" to negotiations.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Jun 27, 2024

In what scenarios is "definitive" most effectively used?

"Definitive" is most effective when you need to convey absolute authority, finality, or certainty, such as in a "definitive agreement," a "definitive diagnosis," or the "definitive guide" to a subject.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Jun 27, 2024

Is "definitive" used differently in British and American English?

No, "definitive" maintains the same spelling and meaning in both British and American English, with no variation in usage across these dialects.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Jun 27, 2024

Is "definitive" a term only used in modern English, or does it have historical uses as well?

"Definitive" has a long history in the English language, tracing back to its Latin roots. It has been used throughout various historical periods, maintaining a consistent meaning relating to conclusiveness or finality.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Jun 27, 2024

Does the meaning of "definitive" change when used in different fields like law or publishing?

No, the core meaning of "definitive" as something authoritative or conclusive remains consistent. However, its implications might vary; for instance, a "definitive" legal ruling is the final say in a legal matter, while a "definitive" edition of a book is the most authoritative version.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Jun 27, 2024

Is "definitive" often used in legal contexts?

Yes, "definitive" is frequently used in legal contexts to describe decisions, judgments, or agreements that are final and not subject to dispute or revision.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Jun 27, 2024

Are there antonyms to "definitive"?

Yes, words like "provisional," "temporary," and "tentative" are antonyms to "definitive." These words imply a lack of finality or certainty.
Dua Fatima
Dua Fatima
Jun 27, 2024

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Dua Fatima
Written by
Dua Fatima
Hifza Nasir
Edited by
Hifza Nasir

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