C1adjective 2K

Decisive

🇬🇧 UK /["/dɪˈsaɪsɪv/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/dɪˈsaɪsɪv/"]/

Meaning of Decisive

very important for the final result of a particular situation

In simple words: Able to make choices quickly and confidently.

Decisive in a sentence

• a **decisive factor/victory/battle**
• Climate was a decisive factor in establishing where the tournament should be held.
• She has **played a decisive role** in the peace negotiations.
• a **decisive step** *(= an important action that will change a situation)* towards a cleaner environment
• It is the chief executive's opinion which is ultimately decisive.
• Gettysburg was the decisive battle of the Civil War.
• Morrison scored the decisive goal in the 75th minute of the game.
• decisive management
• The government must take **decisive action** on gun control.

How to use Decisive

Use 'decisive' in contexts where someone is making strong and clear decisions. It is more suitable in formal and business settings. Avoid using it in casual conversations where the meaning may be diluted.

Grammar pattern

decisive + noun

Memory hint

Sounds like 'decide-sieve' — think of a sieve filtering out uncertainties and only letting firm decisions through.

Related words

Collocations with Decisive

• be
• prove
• potentially
• ultimately

Synonyms for Decisive

• resolute
• determined
• unwavering
• conclusive
• definitive

Opposites of Decisive

• indecisive
• hesitant
• uncertain

Common mistakes with Decisive

• Confused with 'decisively' (adverb) — learners might use the wrong form in sentences.
• Overusing the word to describe minor decisions, which makes it sound exaggerated.
• Mixing up with 'decide' — 'decisive' describes the quality, not the action.

Frequently asked questions about Decisive

What does Decisive mean?

Able to make choices quickly and confidently.

What is the definition of Decisive?

very important for the final result of a particular situation

How do you use Decisive in a sentence?

a **decisive factor/victory/battle**

Can you give another example of Decisive?

Climate was a decisive factor in establishing where the tournament should be held.

What are synonyms for Decisive?

Common alternatives include resolute, determined, unwavering, conclusive, definitive.

What is the opposite of Decisive?

Opposite meanings include indecisive, hesitant, uncertain.

What words go with Decisive?

It commonly pairs with be, prove, potentially, ultimately.

What are common mistakes when using Decisive?

Confused with 'decisively' (adverb) — learners might use the wrong form in sentences. Overusing the word to describe minor decisions, which makes it sound exaggerated. Mixing up with 'decide' — 'decisive' describes the quality, not the action.

How do you pronounce Decisive?

US: /["/dɪˈsaɪsɪv/"]/, UK: /["/dɪˈsaɪsɪv/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Decisive?

Use 'decisive' in contexts where someone is making strong and clear decisions. It is more suitable in formal and business settings. Avoid using it in casual conversations where the meaning may be diluted.

What CEFR level is Decisive?

"Decisive" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.