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Dispositive - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Dispositive refers to something that settles an issue or determines an outcome, often used in legal contexts to describe evidence or facts that resolve a case decisively.

dispositive

/dɪˈspɑzɪtɪv/ /dɪˈspɒzɪtɪv/

Definition:

Relating to or bringing about a final settlement or resolution.

Synonyms:

decisive, conclusive, determinative, pivotal

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

inconclusive, indeterminate, unresolved

Common Collocations:

dispositive evidence, dispositive ruling, dispositive factor

Derivatives:

dispositively, dispositiveness

Usage Tips:

Use "dispositive" to describe something that decisively settles an issue or argument.

Common Phrases:

dispositive motion, dispositive authority, dispositive clause

Etymology:

From Latin "dispositivus," meaning arranging or settling, derived from "disponere" (to arrange).

Examples:

  • 1. The judge's ruling was dispositive and ended the long legal dispute.
  • 2. Her testimony provided dispositive evidence that cleared the defendant.
  • 3. The contract included a dispositive clause resolving all future conflicts.
  • 4. His argument was so strong it became dispositive in the debate.

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