definitive

Everyday

1. Final and settled, so that nobody can argue with or change it: «a definitive answer». tree →
2. The best, most complete or most trusted version of something: «the definitive guide to sharks». tree →
3. (stamps) Definitive stamps are the ordinary, long-running stamps, not special issues. tree →

In the lessons

In school and science, a «definitive answer» or «definitive proof» is one that settles a question beyond doubt; scientists are often careful to say results are «not yet definitive». In book and film reviews, «the definitive version» is the best one. Phrases: «a definitive answer», «definitive proof», «the definitive guide», «definitive list».

Examples

• We still have no definitive answer to how big the universe is. tree →
• This is the definitive guide to British birds. tree →
• The test gave definitive proof that the water was safe. tree →
• Mum's answer was a definitive «No». tree →
• Is this the definitive list of winners? tree →
• The scientists said the result was exciting but not definitive. tree →

Note

Do not confuse with «definite» (clear and sure: «a definite yes»). «Definitive» is stronger: final and authoritative. Adverb: «definitively». Said «dih-FIN-uh-tiv».