definitely / definitive
Loading your saved state.
definitely
Used as an adverb to emphasize something; means 'certainly', 'in any case', or 'absolutely'.
Ich kann dir definitiv sagen, dass ich morgen zur Besprechung komme.
I can definitely tell you that I will come to the meeting tomorrow.
The word 'definitiv' has two main functions. As an adverb, it means 'sicher' (certainly) or 'auf jeden Fall' (in any case/definitely) and is not declined. As an adjective before a noun, it means 'endgültig' (final/definitive) and must be declined.
Ich komme definitiv zur Party.
I am definitely coming to the party.
In its adverbial function, 'definitiv' is very popular in spoken language for strongly emphasizing a statement. It is often used as a one-word answer.
Kommst du morgen mit? – Definitiv!
Are you coming along tomorrow? – Definitely!
As an adjective, 'definitiv' is often combined with nouns that express a conclusion or a fixed arrangement. Typical examples are 'eine definitive Zusage' (a definitive confirmation), 'ein definitiver Termin' (a definitive date), or 'ein definitiver Plan' (a definitive plan).
Wir brauchen bis morgen eine definitive Zusage von Ihnen.
We need a definitive confirmation from you by tomorrow.
maybe
'vielleicht' and 'definitiv' are opposites when it comes to certainty. You use 'vielleicht' when something is possible but not yet certain. You use 'definitiv' when you know something for sure or strongly confirm it. As an adjective, 'definitiv' can also mean that a decision is final. In practical terms: 'vielleicht' leaves something open, while 'definitiv' rules out doubt.
Lena nimmt definitiv an der Prüfung teil.
Lena is definitely taking part in the exam.
Vielleicht komme ich heute Abend noch zum Training.
Maybe I'll still come to training this evening.