determinative

adjective

de·​ter·​mi·​na·​tive di-ˈtər-mə-ˌnā-tiv How to pronounce determinative (audio)
-ˈtər-mə-nə-
: having power or tendency to determine : tending to fix, settle, or define something
regard experiments as determinative of the principles from which deductions could be madeS. F. Mason
determinative noun
Choose the Right Synonym for determinative

conclusive, decisive, determinative, definitive mean bringing to an end.

conclusive applies to reasoning or logical proof that puts an end to debate or questioning.

conclusive evidence

decisive may apply to something that ends a controversy, a contest, or any uncertainty.

a decisive battle

determinative adds an implication of giving a fixed character or direction.

the determinative factor in the court's decision

definitive applies to what is put forth as final and permanent.

the definitive biography

Examples of determinative in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Another determinative variable would be how quickly rival countries will seize the opportunity to attract disillusioned investors with favorable tax regimes and strategic incentives. Virginia La Torre Jeker, Forbes.com, 22 May 2025 Although the regulation explicitly states that no one factor is determinative, the case law tells a somewhat different story. Peter J Reilly, Forbes.com, 18 May 2025 That naturally leads to early clues, even if those clues aren’t determinative. Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 7 May 2025 The United States can now present itself as a global energy provider, although location, logistics, and infrastructure are determinative factors. Ken Silverstein, Forbes, 20 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for determinative

Word History

First Known Use

1655, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of determinative was in 1655

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Cite this Entry

“Determinative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/determinative. Accessed 3 Jun. 2025.

Legal Definition

determinative

adjective
de·​ter·​mi·​na·​tive di-ˈtər-mə-ˌnā-tiv, -nə-tiv How to pronounce determinative (audio)
: having the power or tendency to determine
a fact determinative of the issue

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