definitely

[def-uh-nit-lee]

adverb

1. in a clear and definite manner; unambiguously.

2. unequivocally; positively.

   Synonyms: certainly, absolutely

interjection

1. (used to express complete agreement or strong affirmation).

   Are you starting your diet tomorrow? Definitely!

definitely

/ ˈdɛfɪnɪtlɪ /

adverb

1. in a definite manner

2. (sentence modifier) certainly

   he said he was coming, definitely

1. unquestionably: used to confirm an assumption by a questioner

Word History and Origins

Origin of definitely¹

First recorded in 1575–85; definite + -ly

Synonym Study

See clearly.

Example Sentences

"People can't really travel from overseas to do that. The system is not fair for the rest of the world and could definitely price out people from other countries."

From BBC

"I would have loved to have said some of the things he said after a game - I definitely wanted to at times," adds Williams.

From BBC

Hegseth said the military must be a place where there are “no fug-ups, no fatties, no facial hair, no body hair. Just hot shredded hairless men who are definitely not gay!”

From Los Angeles Times

"But I think definitely trying to build squad depth played a role in the lack of continuity."

From BBC

"I definitely suffered with it after the first week, like sore throat, runny nose, those typical symptoms, and it does linger for quite a while."

From BBC

Related Words

• absolutely 
• clearly 
• decidedly 
• doubtless 
• easily 
• finally 
• obviously 
• plainly www.thesaurus.com
• surely 
• undeniably www.thesaurus.com
• unequivocally 
• unquestionably 

When To Use

What does definitely mean?

Definitely is an adverb that usually means certainly or without a doubt. It also has this meaning when it’s used as a single-word response.Definitely is also sometimes used as an adverb to describe an action as clearly defined or precise. When definitely is used as a single word in response to a question or other statement, it is called an interjection or sentence substitute. When used this way, it is very similar to saying certainly or absolutely.Example: I will definitely be there tomorrow—I promise.