definitively

[ dih-fin-i-tiv-lee ]

adverb

1. in a way that is definite, complete, final, or absolute:

   There is no forensic evidence to definitively identify the attacker.

   The court's ruling is seen as a missed opportunity to resolve the issue definitively.

Other Words From

• non·de·fin·i·tive·ly adverb
• un·de·fin·i·tive·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of definitively¹

definitive ( def ) + -ly

Example Sentences

The BBC paid no money to these men, whose real identities we have not been able to establish definitively.

From BBC

They point out there is another, more precise test and that only the more advanced test can definitively determine levels of insulin in the blood.

From BBC

But Farke could not definitively say if there was a rogue divot on the pitch which had cost his injury-hit side two crucial points at the Stadium of Light after an impressive display.

From BBC

There’s nothing wrong with people asking the government to “definitively investigate some of these things and put some evidence on the table and show what is true and what isn’t,” he says.

From Los Angeles Times

The only matter definitively settled Wednesday was the fate of Bridgeland Resources LLC oil drilling operation on the east side of the campus.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• convincingly
• decisively