definitely
Americanadverb
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in a clear and definite manner; unambiguously.
-
unequivocally; positively.
- Synonyms:
- certainly, absolutely
interjection
adverb
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in a definite manner
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(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.
Related Words
See clearly.
Etymology
Origin of definitely
Compare meaning
How does definitely compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:
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.
Lex: I definitely help him and elevate his style but he had great style before.
From Los Angeles Times
I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t love it, because you definitely don’t make money from it.”
From Los Angeles Times
Hayley Gee, from the Birmingham Dogs Home, said the organisation's vet bills had "definitely increased" and they have seen more dogs being handed in that need treatment that their owners cannot afford.
From BBC
"She's always been a blasing light in the darkness and if you didn't manage to see her, you would definitely hear her."
From BBC
When asked whether his difficulties were more mental or physical, the American, replied: "I think it was definitely mental."
From Barron's
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.
