What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
definitive
Example
The court's ruling was definitive and could not be appealed. [definitive: adjective]
Example
The definitive guide to birdwatching in North America is a must-read for enthusiasts. [definitive: adjective]
ultimate
Example
Winning the championship was the ultimate goal of the team. [ultimate: adjective]
Example
The ultimate outcome of the negotiations was a win-win situation for both parties. [ultimate: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ultimate is more commonly used than definitive in everyday language. Ultimate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while definitive is less common and refers to a specific type of authority or finality.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between definitive and ultimate?
Both definitive and ultimate can be used in formal and informal contexts, but definitive may be more formal due to its association with authority and expertise.
