Definitely vs Definately: Which Spelling Is Correct?
If you've ever stopped while typing and wondered whether to write "definitely" or "definately," you're far from alone. This is one of the most common spelling mistakes in English, appearing in emails, essays, text messages, and even professional documents.
The confusion is understandable because both words sound very similar when spoken. However, only one spelling is recognised as correct in English.
This guide explains which version you should use, why the mistake happens so often, where the word comes from, and a few simple tricks to help you remember the correct spelling every time.
The Quick Answer
The only correct spelling is definitely.
Examples:
- I will definitely attend the meeting.
- She definitely made the right decision.
The spellings definately, definatly, and difinitely are all incorrect and should be avoided.
Quick Reference
| Spelling | Correct? | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Definitely | Yes | The only accepted spelling |
| Definately | No | Incorrect middle vowel |
| Definatly | No | Wrong vowel and missing letter |
| Difinitely | No | Incorrect beginning vowel |
Why Do People Write "Definately"?
The mistake usually happens because English pronunciation doesn't clearly match its spelling.
When people say definitely quickly, the middle syllables become less distinct. Instead of hearing the "i" from definite, many people hear a softer sound that resembles "a." As a result, they spell the word based on pronunciation rather than its actual structure.
Another reason is that the word is extremely common. Frequent use often leads people to type it quickly without thinking carefully about the spelling.
Some of the biggest causes include:
- Writing according to pronunciation rather than spelling.
- Confusing it with words ending in "-ate."
- Repeating the same misspelling until it looks familiar.
- Relying too heavily on autocorrect, which isn't always perfect.
Where Does "Definitely" Come From?
The spelling becomes much easier to remember once you understand its origin.
The word comes from:
- Latin: definitus, meaning "determined" or "limited."
- Middle English: definite, meaning "clear" or "precise."
- Modern English: definitely, created by adding -ly to definite.
Think of it this way:
definite + ly = definitely
Because definite contains the letter "i," the adverb keeps that same spelling. There has never been a correct version of the word that uses an "a," which is why definately is always considered incorrect.
Common Misspellings
Since definitely is used so frequently, it has several common misspellings.
| Incorrect Spelling | Mistake |
| Definately | Wrong middle vowel |
| Definatly | Wrong vowel and missing letter |
| Deffinitely | Extra "f" |
| Difinitely | Wrong starting vowel |
Both native English speakers and language learners regularly make these mistakes because unstressed vowels often sound similar in spoken English.
Easy Ways to Remember the Correct Spelling
1. Remember the Root Word
The easiest trick is to think of the base word:
definite + ly = definitely
If you can spell definite, you already know how to spell definitely.
2. Look for "Finite"
Notice that definite contains the word finite.
Since finite is always spelled with an "i," definite and definitely are too.
3. Remember There Is No "A"
A simple rule is this:
If you see the letter "a" anywhere in definitely, you've misspelled it.
4. Use a Memory Sentence
Try repeating:
It is definitely finite.
Seeing finite inside the sentence reinforces the correct spelling.
Examples of Correct Usage
Professional Writing
- I will definitely send the report before Friday.
- This is definitely the strongest proposal.
Academic Writing
- The findings definitely support the original hypothesis.
- This topic definitely deserves further research.
Everyday Conversation
- I'm definitely coming tonight.
- That's definitely my favourite café.
Incorrect Examples
- I'll definately reply tomorrow.
- She's definately the best person for the job.
Both examples should use definitely instead.
Why the Correct Spelling Matters
Misspelling common words may seem like a small issue, but it can affect how others view your writing.
Professional Communication
A spelling mistake in an email, CV, or business proposal can make otherwise polished writing appear less professional.
Academic Work
Teachers and lecturers often notice repeated spelling errors, which can weaken the overall quality of essays and assignments.
Online Content
Incorrect spelling reduces the credibility of blog posts, website content, and social media captions. It may also be highlighted by editing software, making your writing appear less reliable.
First Impressions
Readers often judge the quality of writing through small details. Using the correct spelling helps build trust and demonstrates attention to detail.
Tips to Avoid the Mistake
To stop writing definately, try these habits:
- Remember definite + ly.
- Look for the word finite inside definite.
- Remind yourself there is never an "a" in definitely.
- Slow down when typing frequently used words.
- Use spell-check as a safety net rather than depending on it completely.
- Practise writing the word several times until it becomes automatic.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to Definitely vs Definately, the answer is simple: definitely is the only correct spelling.
The confusion comes from pronunciation, but the spelling follows the root word definite, which has always contained the letter "i." Once you remember that connection, the mistake becomes much easier to avoid.
Whether you're writing an email, preparing an assignment, publishing a blog post, or sending a quick text, using definitely instead of definately helps your writing look more accurate, polished, and professional.