Words / C1

di-SYS-iv/dɪˈsaɪsɪv/

Decisive settles a result, or describes someone who decides firmly: a decisive goal, a decisive manager. Decided means already chosen; definite is certain. Indecisive is the opposite. A decisive piece of evidence settles the argument. Do not call every important moment decisive unless it actually tipped the outcome.

Meaning

Settling a result clearly, or able to make firm decisions quickly.

Examples

• “A decisive goal in the last minute won the match.”
• “A decisive experiment ruled out the rival theory.”
• “She was decisive about the budget and cautious about the press line.”

Good to know

Settling a result, or firm in deciding. Contrast: decided (already chosen); definite (certain). Opposite: indecisive.

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