definite
Definitions
Clearly stated and not vague; certain.
明确的，确定的。
Clearly defined or fixed; having exact limits.
界限分明的；固定的。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedde- (completely) + fin (bound) + -ite (adj.) = 'completely bounded.' Something with sharp, clear boundaries has no fuzzy edges — and when limits are clear, there is no room for doubt. That is how 'sharply bounded' became 'certain.' The grammar term 'definite article' (the) points to one bounded, specific thing.
Root fin still carries 30 more wordsCommon Collocations
- 1.definite answer明确的答复
- 2.definite plan确定的计划
- 3.definite improvement明显的改善
- 4.definite article定冠词
Example Sentences
- 1.
We need a definite answer by Friday.
- 2.
There has been a definite improvement in her work.
- 3.
Nothing is definite yet, so don't make plans.
Easily Confused
definite vs definitive — definite means 'certain, not vague' (a definite yes); definitive means 'final and authoritative, settling the matter for good' (the definitive biography). A definite answer is clear; a definitive answer ends all further debate.