definiteness (redirected from Definiteness (Grammar))

def·i·nite  (df-nt)

adj.

1. Having distinct limits: definite restrictions on the sale of alcohol.

2. Indisputable; certain: a definite victory.

3. Clearly defined; explicitly precise: a definite statement of the terms of the will. See Synonyms at explicit.

4. Grammar Limiting or particularizing.

5. Botany

a. Of a specified number not exceeding 20, as certain floral organs, especially stamens.

b. Cymose; determinate.

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[Middle English diffinite, defined, from Latin dfntus, past participle of dfnre, to define; see define.]

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defi·nite·ly adv.

defi·nite·ness n.

Usage Note: Definite and definitive both apply to what is precisely defined or explicitly set forth. But definitive most often refers specifically to a judgment or description that serves as a standard or reference point for others, as in the definitive decision of the court (which sets forth a final resolution of a judicial matter) or the definitive biography of Nelson (that is, the biography that sets the standard against which all other accounts of Nelson's life must be measured).

Thesaurus

Noun

1.

definiteness - the quality of being predictable with great confidence determinateness conclusiveness, finality, decisiveness - the quality of being final or definitely settled; "the finality of death" predictability - the quality of being predictable

Translations

definiteness

n → Bestimmtheit f; (of answer, decision) → Klarheit f, → Eindeutigkeit f