the definite time vs a definite time

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'A definite time' is used when referring to a specific, known time without emphasizing uniqueness. 'The definite time' is used when referring to a specific, known time with an emphasis on its uniqueness.

Last updated: March 23, 2024 • 2129 views

This phrase is correct and is used when referring to a specific, known time with an emphasis on its uniqueness.

"the definite time"

This phrase is used when you want to emphasize that a particular time is the only one that fits the context or situation.

Show examples from the web [+]

The Commission can understand the internal constraints of Member States and, in this context, can be more flexible about the time limit, but on the principle of a definite time limit without conditions attached.
Could the Commission give a definite time frame for the introduction of the provisions of this directive?
Professor Stephens always gives a definite time.
They couldn't give us a definite time.
We need a definite time for phase two launch, Commander.
This procedure imposes a definite time limit of two years from the date of payment.
No definite time frame or clear rules had been set out, and the press and public opinion voiced deep-seated fears.
In other words, it lays down definite time periods, incentives and, most of all, no exceptions.
That is why I am also looking forward to hearing what the Commission has elicited from its visit to the different countries in terms of establishing definite time frames.
There is now a definite time period within which Member States have to adopt the necessary measures to ensure the preservation of the European film heritage.
For this reason it was important, Commissioner, to stipulate a cut-off date, a definite time limit on the use of cell lines that have already been extracted.
The Treaty of Amsterdam has set definite time-limits, while the recent Commission and Council action plan on the area of freedom, security and justice actually provides for more rapid adoption of some visa-related measures.
reversing the burden of proof on national authorities wishing to derogate from this principle, using simple procedures and definite time frames in order to make resolution of disputed cases faster and more transparent;
You know, for definite this time.
a residence permit for a definite period of time,
This is a time when definite results are expected in our transatlantic relations, on both sides of the Atlantic.
Whilst understanding the underlying considerations for the draft regulation, the ECB would favour addressing the economic issue by allowing banks a longer, albeit definite, time limit to adjust their prices progressively in line with the progressive decrease of their cost base.
"These midwayers have definite power over time and space."
Included are express delivery services, which might include, for example, on-demand pick-up or time-definite delivery.
Furthermore, the timetable envisages the dialogue on visas with a view to examining the conditions for the introduction of bilateral exemption from visa requirements being moved forward, albeit as a long-term project without a definite point in time being specified.

Alternatives:

the specific time
the exact time
the precise time
the particular time
the unique time

This phrase is correct and is used when referring to a specific, known time without emphasizing uniqueness.

"a definite time"

This phrase is used when you want to refer to a particular time that is known or specified without highlighting its singularity.

Show examples from the web [+]

Professor Stephens always gives a definite time.
They couldn't give us a definite time.
We need a definite time for phase two launch, Commander.
This procedure imposes a definite time limit of two years from the date of payment.
There is now a definite time period within which Member States have to adopt the necessary measures to ensure the preservation of the European film heritage.
For this reason it was important, Commissioner, to stipulate a cut-off date, a definite time limit on the use of cell lines that have already been extracted.
The Commission can understand the internal constraints of Member States and, in this context, can be more flexible about the time limit, but on the principle of a definite time limit without conditions attached.
Could the Commission give a definite time frame for the introduction of the provisions of this directive?
a residence permit for a definite period of time,
Furthermore, the timetable envisages the dialogue on visas with a view to examining the conditions for the introduction of bilateral exemption from visa requirements being moved forward, albeit as a long-term project without a definite point in time being specified.
However, a change of control on a lasting basis is not excluded by the fact that the underlying agreements are entered into for a definite period of time, provided those agreements are renewable.
This derogation should be explicitly restricted to a definite period of time in order to achieve the reduction of sugar quantities in line with the reform of the common market organisation in sugar.
This is a time when definite results are expected in our transatlantic relations, on both sides of the Atlantic.
- Storage periods. EDPS prefers a flexible but proportionate storage period rather than rigid a priori limitation to a definite period of time, which can prove in certain cases too short for the envisaged purposes of the processing.
No definite time frame or clear rules had been set out, and the press and public opinion voiced deep-seated fears.
In other words, it lays down definite time periods, incentives and, most of all, no exceptions.
That is why I am also looking forward to hearing what the Commission has elicited from its visit to the different countries in terms of establishing definite time frames.
The Treaty of Amsterdam has set definite time-limits, while the recent Commission and Council action plan on the area of freedom, security and justice actually provides for more rapid adoption of some visa-related measures.
reversing the burden of proof on national authorities wishing to derogate from this principle, using simple procedures and definite time frames in order to make resolution of disputed cases faster and more transparent;
You know, for definite this time.

Alternatives:

a specific time
a particular time
a set time
a fixed time
an exact time

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the definite time vs a definite time