Easy Writing Tips: How Do You Spell Definitely?

This word comes from the Latin verb definire, meaning “to bound, limit.” It entered English in the 16th century to signify ‘exactly.’ Our 16th-century forefathers might be startled to find that “definitely” is ‘the most misspelled word in the English language.’

How Do You Spell Definitely? Easy Tips

Definitely is spelled as d-e-f-i-n-i-t-e-l-y. It is pronounced as: /ˈdefɪnətli/, or deh-fuh-nut-lee.

One of the best methods for spelling “definitely” is to break it down as follows: 

  • Start by spelling finite
  • Add “de” to finite to give definite
  • Lastly, add “ly” to definite to have definitely.

Another approach is to focus on the word’s center. You may, for example, recall that “definitely” includes the word “finite,” or that it includes “in” and “it”! It also contains a single “n” letter. “Definitely” has vowels in between the consonants except for the last two words, “ly.”

Keeping these in mind will help you spell definitely with ease.

Photo by Jason Leung on Unsplash

What Does “Definitely” Mean?

“Definitely” is an adverb that implies “certainly,” but it can also be used to convey enthusiastic agreement or dissent. It is often used in a positive context, but it can also be used to express certainty in a negative meaning. The word “definitely” may precede the subject, or it can come after it.

Check out some examples of “definitely” in a sentence:

  • Lilian was definitely the best cheerleader in school.
  • My dad’s barbecues are definitely the best!
  • Are you going to the party? Definitely!

The Best Synonyms to Use in Place of “Definitely”

Let’s look at some phrases that can be used to emphasize your ideas, words, and phrases in lieu of definitely.

You might substitute “definitely” for the following phrases below:

Clearly, Undeniably, Plainly, Undoubtedly, Unmistakably, and Unquestionably.

To indicate emphatic agreement or disagreement, you might substitute definitely with the following phrases:

 Absolutely, Surely and Certainly

Other Phrases to Use Instead of “Definitely”

“Without a doubt,” “Hands down,” and “By all means.”

To Wrap Up

Definitely is a word that means “absolutely,” “certainly,” “without doubt,” without hesitation,” “without uncertainty,” etc. Now you know how to spell definitely and a few ways to use the word in your writing. We hope this easy writing tips helps your grammar.

Pam is an expert grammarian with years of experience teaching English, writing and ESL Grammar courses at the university level. She is enamored with all things language and fascinated with how we use words to shape our world.

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