Definately vs. Definitely: The Correct Spellings

The correct spelling is "definitely," while "definately" is incorrect. The difference between the two is the sequence of letters in the latter half of the word. "Definitely" is the proper spelling that conforms to standard English usage. In contrast, "definately" is a common misspelling that has emerged, possibly due to phonetic transcription.

A simple mnemonic to remember the correct spelling of "definitely" is to recall that it contains the word "finite." Therefore, by thinking of "de-FINITE-ly," one can avoid adding the extra "a."

The word "definitely" comes from the Latin word "definitus," which means "defined" or "determined." This Latin word further evolved into "definite" in English, which means clear, exact, or set. "Definitely" is the adverbial form of "definite." Other forms of the word include "definition" (noun) and "definitive" (adjective).

Incorrect: I will definately be there by 8 PM.

Correct: I will definitely be there by 8 PM.

Incorrect: He can definately solve the problem.

Correct: He can definitely solve the problem.

Incorrect: It's definately going to rain today.

Correct: It's definitely going to rain today.

Incorrect: This is definately the right choice.

Correct: This is definitely the right choice.

Incorrect: She is definately the best player on the team.

Correct: She is definitely the best player on the team.

Without doubt or ambiguity; with certainty.

Clearly distinct or defined.

In a definite and final manner; conclusively.

Used to strengthen the certainty or intensity of a statement or description.

Used for emphasis to express agreement or assurance.

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.

Without question and beyond doubt.

In a definite manner; decisively.

In a definite manner; with precision; precisely; determinately.

without question and beyond doubt;

I definitely need to start getting more sleep.

She was definitely the star of the show.

This is definitely the best cake I've ever had.

That's definitely not what I meant to say.

The test results were definitely surprising.

We need to leave now to definitely catch the bus.

He's definitely the person I saw at the store.

I'll definitely consider your suggestion.

That joke was definitely in poor taste.

I definitely prefer summer over winter.

I'm definitely looking forward to the weekend.

We're definitely going to win this game.

He definitely has a knack for painting.

This book is definitely a must-read.

It's definitely colder today than yesterday.

The movie was definitely worth watching.

I'll definitely need your advice on this.

You're definitely faster at solving puzzles than I am.

She agreed to help us, definitely a relief.

It's definitely time for a coffee break.

Used to say that something is worth the time, money, or effort spent.

Used to indicate indecision or uncertainty.

Used to strongly disagree or deny.

Yes, other forms of "definitely" include "definite" (adjective), "definition" (noun), and "definitive" (adjective).

Yes, "definitely" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

One mnemonic is to recall that "definitely" contains the word "finite." Think of "de-FINITE-ly" to avoid the misspelling.

The word "definitely" comes from the Latin word "definitus," which means "defined" or "determined."

"Definately" is incorrect because the standard English spelling conforms to "definitely," which aligns with its Latin origin.

It's always best to use the correct spelling, even in informal contexts. Using "definitely" will prevent misunderstandings and convey a better command of the language.

The correct spelling is "definitely." "Definately" is a common misspelling.

Yes, "definately" is a frequently encountered misspelling of "definitely," possibly due to phonetic transcription.

Yes, words like "certainly," "absolutely," and "unquestionably" can be used as synonyms for "definitely" in many contexts.

"Definitely" is pronounced as /ˈdɛf ɪ nɪt li/ in American English.