What is definitely? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of definitely

definitelyadverb

/ˈdɛf(ɪ)nɪtli/
Definition & pronunciation of definitely

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

1. Syllables:

"Definitely" has three syllables:

  • de - (like the beginning of "desk")
  • fin - (like "fin" as in a fish)
  • i-tely - (this is the challenging part)

2. Phonetic Breakdown (roughly):

  • de: /dɪ/ (a short, quick "di" sound - almost like you're saying "die" but very quickly)
  • fin: /fɪn/ (as in the word "fin")
  • i-tely: /ɪˈtelɪ/ (This is where it gets tricky)
    • ɪ: (a short "i" sound – like in "bit")
    • ˈtel: (This syllable is emphasized. The "tel" is pronounced with a slightly drawn-out "e" sound)
    • ɪ: (another short "i" sound)
    • ˈli: (another short "i" sound, and this syllable is also emphasized)

3. Putting it Together - The Full Pronunciation:

The whole word is roughly pronounced: deh-FIN-i-telly

Here’s a more detailed breakdown to help you:

  • "de": Say "dee" quickly.
  • "fin": Say “fin” like you’re describing the fin of a fish.
  • "i-tely": This is the core of the difficulty. Focus on the two emphasized "i" sounds. The first "i" in "i-tely" is a short "i" sound (like in "bit"). The second "i" is also a short "i" sound. The "tel" syllable has a slightly longer "e" sound.

Tips and Tricks:

  • Listen to Native Speakers: The best way to learn is to hear it! Search for "how to pronounce definitely" on YouTube or use a dictionary like Merriam-Webster or Cambridge Dictionary. Listen to several examples.
  • Stress the Second Syllable: "Definite-ly." The "ly" part is stressed.
  • Don't over-pronounce: It’s a relatively quick word. Don't drag out each syllable unnecessarily.

Resources for Hearing Pronunciation:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Break it down even further?

Usage and examples with the word definitely in English

Let's break down how to use "definitely" effectively in English. It's a really useful word to convey certainty, but it needs to be used correctly to avoid sounding awkward or overused.

1. Core Meaning: Strong Certainty

At its most basic, "definitely" means "without a doubt," "certainly," or "absolutely." It expresses a high degree of confidence that something is true.

2. Common Ways to Use It

  • Expressing Agreement:

    • "Are you coming to the party?" "Definitely! I wouldn’t miss it."
    • "Do you think it will rain tomorrow?" "Definitely – the weather forecast says so."

  • Stating Facts with Assurance:

    • "I’ll finish my work by 5 pm." "Definitely.” (Meaning you are confident you will)
    • "She’s the best candidate for the job.” "Definitely – she has all the necessary skills.”

  • Adding Emphasis:

    • “I want to go to Italy.” “Definitely! It’s been a dream of mine forever.”
    • “This is a great idea.” “Definitely! Let’s do it.”

3. Sentence Structure – Where It Fits Best

  • Often at the beginning of a sentence: This is a very common and strong way to use “definitely.”

    • "Definitely, I need to buy more groceries."
    • "Definitely, that’s a good question."

  • Within a sentence: You can also use it within a sentence, but it often sounds a bit more emphatic when at the beginning.

    • "I'm definitely going to the beach this weekend." (Stronger than “I am definitely going…” )

4. Important Nuances & How to Avoid Overuse

  • Don’t overuse it! Using "definitely" too frequently can make your speech or writing sound unnatural and a bit stilted. Variety is key.

  • Alternatives: Consider these alternatives to replace "definitely" when it feels repetitive:

    • Certainly: Similar to "definitely," but slightly more formal.
    • Absolutely: Strong affirmation.
    • Without a doubt: More descriptive.
    • Indeed: (More formal)
    • Certainly: (Similar to definitely)
    • Definitely, yes! (Adding an enthusiastic "yes" can often be better)

  • Don’t use it for speculation: Avoid using “definitely” when you’re not 100% sure.

    • Incorrect: “It's definitely going to snow tomorrow.” (Unless you have a reliable forecast!)
    • Better: “It might snow tomorrow.” or “The weather forecast suggests there’s a chance of snow.”

5. Examples - Putting it all together

  • “Are you hungry?” “Definitely! I haven’t eaten all day.”
  • “Do you want me to help you with that?” "Definitely! It looks complicated.”
  • “Is this the right way to go?” "Definitely – it leads to the museum.”
  • “We should go to that new restaurant.” "Definitely, I’ve heard it’s amazing!”

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

  • What kind of writing or speaking are you using “definitely” in? (e.g., casual conversation, email, academic writing?)
  • Could you give me an example sentence you're struggling with?

Synonyms for the word definitely

Practice with vocabulary definitely

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Due to the overwhelming support, the new project will ______ receive funding next quarter.
  2. The board meeting is scheduled for Friday; we ______ need to prepare the financial reports beforehand.
  3. He spoke quite ______, outlining each step of the intricate process for the new employees.
  4. Although the market fluctuates, our long-term investment strategy has yielded results ______ over the past decade.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The CEO stated, "We will ______ pursue this acquisition; it aligns perfectly with our strategic goals." a) possibly b) definitely c) occasionally d) vaguely

  2. After reviewing the data, the team concluded that the proposed solution would ______ improve operational efficiency. a) rarely b) tentatively c) undoubtedly d) certainly e) definitely

  3. The project manager emphasized, "For this critical phase, we ______ require everyone's full commitment." a) possibly b) definitely c) slightly d) probably

  4. Despite the initial challenges, the team managed to ______ complete the complex task ahead of schedule. a) certainly b) precisely c) successfully d) absolutely

  5. Given the urgency of the matter, we need to respond to their inquiry ______ to avoid any misunderstanding. a) promptly b) definitely c) slowly d) casually

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: There is no doubt that the new policy will have a significant impact on employee morale. Rewrite (using "definitely"):

  2. Original: I am absolutely convinced that this is the correct approach to solve the problem. Rewrite (using "definitely" or related word forms):

  3. Original: It is without question that this proposal requires immediate attention from senior management. Rewrite (DO NOT use "definitely"):

Answer:

Exercise 1:

  1. definitely
  2. definitely
  3. clearly / precisely (or similar appropriate adverb of manner)
  4. consistently / steadily (or similar appropriate adverb of frequency/manner)

Exercise 2:

  1. b) definitely
  2. c) undoubtedly, d) certainly, e) definitely
  3. b) definitely
  4. c) successfully
  5. a) promptly

Exercise 3:

  1. The new policy will definitely have a significant impact on employee morale.
  2. I definitely believe this is the correct approach to solve the problem.
  3. This proposal undoubtedly requires immediate attention from senior management.

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