What is definite? Pronunciation and usage in English

definite means . Learn how to pronounce and use definite through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of definite

definiteadjective

/ˈdɛf(ɪ)nɪt/
Definition & pronunciation of definite

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "definite." It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Core Sound:

  • "De-": This part sounds like "dee" - like in "deep" or "destiny."
  • "finite": This is the key part. It’s pronounced like "fin-it."

2. Putting it Together:

  • "dee-fin-it"

Here’s a more detailed breakdown with emphasis:

  • dee (short “e” sound, like in “bed”) – stress on this syllable
  • fin (like the word "fin" as in a fish) – stress on this syllable
  • it (as in “it’s”) – this is a very short, unstressed syllable

Tips for Accuracy:

  • The “i” in “fin” is a short “i” sound, not the long “i” sound as in “bike.”
  • Don't overemphasize the "definite." It's often spoken with a relatively even rhythm.

Resources to hear it:

To help me give you even more specific guidance, could you tell me:

  • Are you primarily concerned about a British or American accent? (Pronunciation can vary slightly between the two.)

Usage and examples with the word definite in English

Let's break down how to use the word "definite" in English. It's a versatile word with several different meanings and usages. Here's a breakdown categorized for clarity:

1. As an Adjective (Meaning Certain or Fixed)

This is the most common way you'll encounter "definite" – indicating something is certain, established, or without doubt.

  • Examples:

    • “I have a definite plan for the weekend.” (I know exactly what I’m doing.)
    • “She gave a definite answer to the question.” (She said yes or no clearly.)
    • “There’s a definite need for more funding.” (It’s clearly required.)
    • “It’s a definite possibility we’ll go.” (It’s likely or probable.)
    • "The book has a definite ending." (The conclusion is fixed.)

  • Synonyms: certain, sure, established, fixed, conclusive, firm, clear, unambiguous.

2. As an Adjective (Referring to a Specific/Particular Item)

This meaning relates to identifying something precisely.

  • Examples:

    • “I need a definite address for the package.” (Not just any address, but a particular one.)
    • "He gave me a definite description of the car." (A specific and detailed description)
    • "She looked for a definite pattern in the data." (She wanted to identify a particular, recognizable pattern.)

  • Synonyms: specific, particular, precise, exact.

3. As an Adverb (Meaning Exactly or Precisely)

This is less common than the first two meanings, but still important.

  • Examples:

    • “Speak definitely!” (Speak clearly and with certainty.)
    • “I definitely want to go to the party.” (I absolutely want to go.)
    • “She definitely knows the answer.” (Without any doubt, she knows.)

  • Synonyms: certainly, absolutely, unequivocally, precisely.

4. "Definite Article" (The - the)

  • This is a grammatical term - it's the word "the" when it’s used to identify a specific thing. It’s used when you’re referring to something unique or already known.

    • “The book on the table is mine.” (There’s only one book on the table that I possess).
    • “The president of the company has spoken.” (Referring to a particular president).

Tips for Using "Definite":

  • Context is Key: The meaning of "definite" is always determined by the context in which it's used.
  • Pairs with Words of Certainty: Often, you'll see “definite” paired with words that express certainty, such as “know,” “believe,” “plan,” “answer,” “need,” "want" etc.
  • Avoid Ambiguity: “Definite” is used to reduce uncertainty.

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to use "definite" in? (e.g., a sentence, a paragraph, a conversation)

Synonyms for the word definite

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