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How to Say "definitely" in Spanish

English → Spanish

definitivamente

/deh-fee-nee-tih-vah-men-tay//definitiˈvamente/

adverbB1general
Use this word when you want to express a high degree of certainty or conviction about something being true or the best option.
A large, bright green checkmark (tick) rests securely and squarely on a simple, gray stone pedestal, symbolizing absolute certainty and affirmation.

Examples

Definitivamente es la mejor película del año.

It is definitely the best movie of the year.

¿Vienes con nosotros? — Sí, definitivamente.

Are you coming with us? — Yes, definitely/absolutely.

Ella decidió definitivamente no volver a fumar.

She decided conclusively (or 'for good') not to smoke again.

The '-mente' Adverb Pattern

Adverbs like 'definitivamente' are formed by taking the feminine form of an adjective ('definitiva') and adding the ending '-mente'. This works just like adding '-ly' to an adjective in English (definitive -> definitively).

Placement for Emphasis

Mistake: “Sometimes learners put 'definitivamente' inside the verb phrase, like 'Yo he definitivamente comido' (Incorrect word order).”

Correction: In Spanish, adverbs usually go before the verb, after the verb, or at the start of the sentence for emphasis: 'Yo definitivamente he comido' or 'Definitivamente he comido.' (Correct usage).

absolutamente

ab-soh-loo-tah-men-tay/aβsoluˈtamente/

adverbA1informal
This is best used as a strong, affirmative response to a question, similar to 'absolutely' or 'completely'.
A friendly, stylized hand gives a firm and enthusiastic thumbs-up gesture, indicating strong agreement or affirmation.

Examples

¿Crees que podemos terminar esto hoy? — ¡Absolutamente!

Do you think we can finish this today? — Absolutely!

¿Estás de acuerdo con el plan? — Absolutamente, no hay otra opción.

Do you agree with the plan? — Definitely, there is no other option.

The Strong 'Yes'

When used alone, 'absolutamente' is a very strong and confident way to say 'yes' or confirm something, much stronger than a simple 'sí'.

totalmente

/toh-tahl-men-teh//toˌtalˈmente/

adverbB1general
Employ this word when you want to emphasize that something is complete, total, or entirely true, often in response to a question about a state or feeling.
A cheerful, friendly cartoon character giving a strong, enthusiastic thumbs up gesture to show definitive agreement.

Examples

¿Estás cansado? — Totalmente. No dormí nada.

Are you tired? — Totally. I didn't sleep at all.

Esa película es totalmente increíble.

That movie is absolutely incredible.

¿Crees que fue una buena idea? — ¡Totalmente!

Do you think it was a good idea? — Definitely!

Choosing Between 'Definitivamente' and 'Absolutamente'

Learners often confuse 'definitivamente' and 'absolutamente'. Remember that 'absolutamente' is primarily used for strong agreement in response to a question, while 'definitivamente' expresses certainty about a statement.

Related Translations

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