Synonyms

definitely

American

[def-uh-nit-lee] / ˈdɛf ə nɪt li /

adverb

in a clear and definite manner; unambiguously.
unequivocally; positively.

Synonyms:

certainly, absolutely

interjection

(used to express complete agreement or strong affirmation).

Are you starting your diet tomorrow? Definitely!

definitely British

/ ˈdɛfɪnɪtlɪ /

adverb

in a definite manner
(sentence modifier) certainly

he said he was coming, definitely

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

unquestionably: used to confirm an assumption by a questioner

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

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

First recorded in 1575–85; definite + -ly

Compare meaning

How does definitely compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

definitely vs. defiantly

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.

"That was a really great night for us because it was a great test of our development. I think the experiences we had two years ago definitely helped us for this time around," said Howe.

From Barron's

“These guys definitely have a case of whiplash,” said John Gorman, a longtime consultant to the healthcare industry on Medicare issues.

From The Wall Street Journal

Whatever it is, there’s definitely something off between us.

From Literature

"There's definitely a void that's been created. Everyone is trying to continue as best as they can. He was such a kind man. Always giving people like me advice."

From BBC

"Most of us are definitely still struggling. There is still a lot of trauma, and there is still fear."

From BBC

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023