adverb
définitivement
permanently
Ce mot sert à dire qu’une chose est faite pour toujours, sans retour possible.
Definition & meaning
Définitivement is an adverb meaning:
- Permanently, for good: in a way that will not be reversed.
Elle a définitivement quitté Paris. — She left Paris for good. - Finally, conclusively: in a way that settles a matter.
La question est définitivement réglée. — The matter is finally settled.
It does not normally mean “definitely” in the sense of “certainly”; use certainement or absolument for that meaning.
Grammar & Word origin
It is an invariable adverb formed from the feminine adjective définitive plus the adverbial suffix -ment. It ultimately derives from Latin definitivus, meaning “decisive” or “final.”
Synonyms & antonyms
- Synonyms: pour de bon means “for good” and is more conversational. Irrémédiablement emphasizes that something cannot be remedied, often with a negative implication.
- Antonyms: provisoirement means “temporarily, pending a final decision.” Temporairement simply means “for a limited time.”
Common phrases & collocations
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Examples
Le musée fermera définitivement demain soir.adverb
The museum will close permanently tomorrow evening.
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