definitely
Americanadverb
-
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.
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.
"Should you mandate for companies to definitely have a kill switch? Is that kill switch verifiable by a third party?" he asked.
From BBC ● Sep. 14, 2026
There is stuff that’s more pretty now too, but I definitely see a through line and the label evolving as my personal taste evolves a little too.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 14, 2026
Sitting in the directors' box at Old Trafford watching United lose 1-0 to a Manchester City side reduced to 10 men midway through the first half was definitely not part of the plan.
From BBC ● Sep. 13, 2026
"As things stand today, we should definitely go for a ban" until they're proven safe.
From Barron's ● Sep. 12, 2026
She and Lorren’s mom were definitely in cahoots.
From "Bye Forever, I Guess" by Jodi Meadows
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.
