definitely
Americanadverb
-
in a clear and definite manner; unambiguously.
-
unequivocally; positively.
- Synonyms:
- certainly, absolutely
interjection
adverb
-
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.
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.
Tony Tripp, director of advancement at the school, told the Long Beach Post that the school hasn’t determined yet what was stolen but that the damage was “definitely a high amount.”
From Los Angeles Times
"You couldn't fit her into little boxes, there was definitely something theatrical about her," Collins said.
From BBC
“I put myself in that position. I definitely probably need to go to therapy for that.”
Meloni responded in a post on Instagram saying she was "definitely not like an angel", accompanied by a laughing emoji.
From BBC
But “ultimately, I think every one of us, given the opportunity, would definitely take a crack at trying to fix Venezuela.”
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.
