Definate vs. Definite: The Correct Spellings

A helpful way to remember the correct spelling "definite" is to note that it has "finite" in it, which is another English word meaning "limited or bounded." This can serve as a mnemonic: "definite" has a "finite" way of spelling, not "definate."

There are other forms of the word "definite," such as "definitely" and "definiteness." "Definitely" is an adverb, and "definiteness" is a noun. Both derive from "definite" and maintain its root meaning of being clear, precise, or decided.

The correct spelling of the word is "definite," not "definate." "Definite" is spelled with the letters "d-e-f-i-n-i-t-e." The word "definate" is a common misspelling and does not exist as a correct word in standard English dictionaries. The origin of "definite" lies in the Latin word "definitus," which means "to set bounds, limit." It made its way into English in the 16th century through Old French.

Incorrect: There was a definate improvement in her grades.

Correct: There was a definite improvement in her grades.

Incorrect: His arrival time is still definate.

Correct: His arrival time is still definite.

Incorrect: The company has a definate policy on this matter.

Correct: The company has a definite policy on this matter.

Incorrect: She has a definate plan for the weekend.

Correct: She has a definite plan for the weekend.

Incorrect: The results were not definate.

Correct: The results were not definite.

Clearly stated, leaving no room for confusion or doubt.

Explicitly defined or stated; exact.

In grammar, denoting an identified or immediately identifiable person or thing.

Limited; having boundaries.

Certain or sure to happen; inevitable.

Clearly defined; explicitly precise

Forthright and unambiguous

Clearly developed or firmly decided

Readily distinguished or certain

(Grammar) Limiting or particularizing.

Of a fixed number usually less than 20, as certain floral organs, especially stamens.

Cymose; determinate.

Having distinct limits.

Free from any doubt.

Determined; resolved; decided.

(grammar) A word or phrase that designates a specified or identified person or entity.

(obsolete) Anything that is defined or determined.

Having certain or distinct; determinate in extent or greatness; limited; fixed; as, definite dimensions; a definite measure; a definite period or interval.

Having certain limits in signification; determinate; certain; precise; fixed; exact; clear; as, a definite word, term, or expression.

Determined; resolved.

Serving to define or restrict; limiting; determining; as, the definite article.

A thing defined or determined.

precise; explicit and clearly defined;

known for certain;

There's a definite chill in the air today.

She felt a definite sense of achievement.

You could see the definite outline of the mountains.

The rules are definite and must be followed.

We need a definite answer by tomorrow.

His expression showed definite interest.

The schedule is definite, with no room for changes.

There was a definite improvement in his attitude.

The party was a definite success.

Her reply was short and definite.

The teacher gave us definite instructions on the project.

That's a definite possibility we can consider.

He has a definite talent for music.

The evidence points to a definite conclusion.

The project has a definite deadline.

There's a definite need for change in the system.

The meeting has been set for a definite time.

There was a definite sense of excitement in the air.

Her decision is definite; she's not changing her mind.

They noticed a definite change in the weather.

There's a definite pattern to his behavior.

There's a definite difference between the two paintings.

The doctor gave a definite diagnosis after the tests.

The contract has some definite terms.

He made a definite commitment to improve.

Yes, "definite" primarily functions as an adjective in English.

In grammar, "definite" refers to the quality of being clear, specific, or explicit. The definite article "the" is an example of this.

"Definate" is incorrect because it is not recognized as a standard English word. The correct spelling is "definite."

Yes, "definitely" is the adverbial form of the adjective "definite."

The word "definite" implies something that is limited or bounded, leaving no room for doubt or uncertainty.

Yes, "definite" is derived from the Latin word "definitus."

The word "definite" originates from the Latin word "definitus," which means "to set bounds or limit."

Yes, "definite" has other forms such as the adverb "definitely" and the noun "definiteness."

"Definite" is typically used as an adjective, as in "He had a definite plan for the weekend."

Remember that "definite" contains the word "finite," which can help you remember that the correct spelling is not "definate."