Définitif

Définitif is a French adjective meaning definitive, final, or conclusive. It is used to describe something that settles a matter, ends a discussion, or is established as the final form or status. The masculine singular form is définitif, the feminine singular défintive, the masculine plural définitifs, and the feminine plural définitives.

Etymology and usage notes: the term comes from Latin definitivus, related to defining or setting boundaries. In everyday language, it often appears in phrases such as accord définitif, solution définitive, or version définitive, where it signals that no further changes are expected or required. It contrasts with provisional or tentative terms (provisoire, temporaire) that imply potential future changes.

Contexts and examples: in law and administration, a définitive decision or sentence is binding and cannot be easily reversed; in business and project management, a « version définitive » or « plan définitif » denotes the final approved document or schedule. In journalism, publishing, or research, a « résultats définitifs » or « conclusion définitive » indicates conclusions or data that have been fully verified and authorised. In cultural or everyday usage, people may speak of a « solution définitive » to emphasize a lasting resolution rather than a temporary fix.

Variations and related terms: while défini­tif is commonly paired with nouns describing outcomes, it is distinct from synonyms like final, last, or conclusive, which may carry slightly different nuances. It should not be confused with grammatical terms such as the definite article; in French, the term for that concept is article défini, not définitif.

See also: definitive, final, conclusive; provisional; article défini.