DETERMINATIVE Synonyms: 52 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'determinative' different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of determinative are conclusive , decisive , and definitive . While all these words mean "bringing to an end," determinative adds an implication of giving a fixed character or direction. // the determinative factor in the court's decision

Q: When could 'conclusive' be used to replace 'determinative'?

The words conclusive and determinative can be used in similar contexts, but conclusive applies to reasoning or logical proof that puts an end to debate or questioning. // conclusive evidence

Q: When might 'decisive' be a better fit than 'determinative'?

Although the words decisive and determinative have much in common, decisive may apply to something that ends a controversy, a contest, or any uncertainty. // a decisive battle

Q: Where would 'definitive' be a reasonable alternative to 'determinative'?

While in some cases nearly identical to determinative , definitive applies to what is put forth as final and permanent. // the definitive biography

determinative

adjective

Definition of determinative next

as in dispositive

Synonyms & Similar Words

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How is the word determinative different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of determinative are conclusive, decisive, and definitive. While all these words mean "bringing to an end," determinative adds an implication of giving a fixed character or direction.

the determinative factor in the court's decision

When could conclusive be used to replace determinative?

The words conclusive and determinative can be used in similar contexts, but conclusive applies to reasoning or logical proof that puts an end to debate or questioning.

conclusive evidence

When might decisive be a better fit than determinative?

Although the words decisive and determinative have much in common, decisive may apply to something that ends a controversy, a contest, or any uncertainty.

a decisive battle

Where would definitive be a reasonable alternative to determinative?

While in some cases nearly identical to determinative, definitive applies to what is put forth as final and permanent.

the definitive biography

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of determinative Some people argue that the outcome disenfranchises the California residents whose votes should have been determinative. —

Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024 Research continually demonstrates that candidate gender is not a primary predictor of vote choice, instead showing consistently party as a more determinative factor. —

Kelly Dittmar, Forbes, 30 Oct. 2024 Those vote shares could be small but determinative in an election likely to be decided on the margins. —

Ashley Lopez, NPR, 25 Sep. 2024 However, the upcoming national elections could be determinative of the bill’s fate. —

Adam S. Minsky, Forbes, 23 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for determinative

Recent Examples of Synonyms for determinative

Adjective

The reality that this prosecution more likely would diminish rather than enhance consumer welfare will not be legally dispositive.

— Alden Abbott, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024
And this Court should not be thrust into a race with the Southern District of Mississippi to decide the critical factual issues that are dispositive of both actions.

— Audrey Gibbs, USA TODAY, 12 Nov. 2024