decisive
dih-SY-siv
/dɪˈsaɪsɪv/
Settling an issue; producing a definite result; showing the ability to make decisions quickly and firmly.
Can describe both a person (who makes quick, firm choices) and an event or action (which finalizes a situation, like a 'decisive victory').
The story behind the word. The etymology of decisive is wonderfully sharp. It comes from the Latin decidere, which literally means 'to cut off.' When you make a decisive choice, you are metaphorically cutting off all other branches of possibility, leaving only one path forward.
Word relationships
- conclusive: 'Conclusive' applies strictly to evidence or arguments that prove something beyond doubt, while 'decisive' can apply to people, actions, and events.
- resolute: 'Resolute' emphasizes staying firm after a decision is made, whereas 'decisive' emphasizes the speed and clarity of making the decision.
- indecisive: 'Indecisive' means characterized by lack of decision; hesitating.
- vacillating: 'Vacillating' means wavering back and forth between options.
Commonly confused with
- incisive: 'Incisive' means sharp, clear, and direct (like an incisive mind or comment), whereas 'decisive' means settling an issue or making firm choices.
Word family
- decisively (adverb): In a manner that settles an issue quickly and firmly.
- decisiveness (noun): The ability to make decisions quickly and confidently.
Collocations
- decisive action
- decisive factor
- decisive victory
Idioms & expressions
- take the bull by the horns
Example sentences
- "The battle of Yorktown was the decisive conflict that secured American independence." A military battle that ended a war.
- "We need a decisive leader who can act quickly in this crisis, not someone who hesitates." A description of a strong leader's action.
Memory hook
Think of 'scissors' cutting a rope. A 'decisive' action cuts off all other options instantly. Decide by cutting off options.
When not to use
Do not use to describe a decision that is merely loud or aggressive but doesn't actually settle the underlying issue.
Fun facts
- The words incision, scissors, and homicide all share the same Latin root caedere (to cut or kill) with decisive.
Explore more words
unequivocal, purposeful, make a decision, resolution, deliberative, vanquish
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