decisive

[dih-sahy-siv]

adjective

1. having the power or quality of deciding; putting an end to controversy; crucial or most important.

   Your argument was the decisive one.

   Synonyms: final, conclusive

2. characterized by or displaying no or little hesitation; resolute; determined.

   The general was known for his decisive manner.

   Synonyms: firm

3. indisputable; definite.

   a decisive defeat.

4. unsurpassable; commanding.

   a decisive lead in the voting.

decisive

/ dɪˈsaɪsɪv /

adjective

1. influential; conclusive

   a decisive argument

2. characterized by the ability to make decisions, esp quickly; resolute

Other Word Forms

• decisively adverb
• decisiveness noun
• nondecisive adjective
• predecisive adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of decisive¹

First recorded in 1605–15; from Medieval Latin dēcīsīvus, equivalent to Latin dēcīs(us) ( decision ) + -īvus adjective suffix ( -ive )

Example Sentences

"It represents a decisive step towards the preservation, expansion, and enrichment of the legacy of the King of Football."

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Newcastle's defending for Marseille's decisive second goal just four minutes later was not much better.

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The game took a decisive turn in the 44th minute when Araujo received a second yellow card for a poor challenge on Cucurella.

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Those who have worked with Federighi describe his management style as decisive.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

He called on the EA to show "decisive leadership, communicate directly with families and deliver a fully resourced interim package that preserves specialist support while pupils are away from school".

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• conclusive 
• critical 
• crucial 
• definitive 
• determined 
• fateful 
• forceful 
• influential 
• momentous 
• positive 
• resolute 
• significant