definitely
Americanadverb
-
in a clear and definite manner; unambiguously.
-
unequivocally; positively.
- Synonyms:
- certainly, absolutely
interjection
adverb
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in a definite manner
-
(sentence modifier) certainly
he said he was coming, definitely
Usage
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.
Synonym Usage
See clearly.
Etymology
Origin of definitely
Compare meaning
How does definitely compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:
Explanation
Use definitely to describe something you don’t have any doubt about. If you are certain you're going to see your friend's band play, you can assure him that you'll definitely be there. The adverb definitely is used to emphasize the certainty of whatever word it modifies. If you are sure you want apple pie, you could say you definitely want it. The base word definite can also mean "a certain limit," like the definite size a shelf must have to be. You wouldn't say "the carpenter definitely cuts the wood," to describe the exactness of the work; use precisely instead. AND, yes, definitely definitely has an e before the ly!
Vocabulary lists containing definitely
Commonly Misspelled Words, List 2
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Commonly Confused Words, List 2
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Unless you’re into feminist history, this is probably the first time you’re hearing those names; it’s definitely not well-known lore.
From Salon ● Sep. 22, 2026
Yes, this particular region, about 24.3 cqurzots in radius, is definitely lower than the vast plains outside the depression.
From Science Daily ● Sep. 22, 2026
“We are definitely seeing Saudi loading more crude out of Ras Tanura and shuttling it through,” said Richard Matthews, director of consulting and research at shipbroker E.A.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 22, 2026
I stopped to refill the other day and it cost me about almost £70 for my 1.6 litre Mini, so it's definitely a jump as I do not normally spend over 50.
From BBC ● Sep. 22, 2026
And I definitely don’t want to look behind me, at the whole bus.
From "Clairboyance" by Kristiana Kahakauwila
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
