decisive

American  

[dih-sahy-siv] / dɪˈsaɪ sɪv /

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.

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decisive British  

/ dɪˈsaɪsɪv /

adjective

1. influential; conclusive

   a decisive argument

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

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Other Word Forms

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

Etymology

Origin of decisive

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

Example Sentences

It was a sixth defeat on the spin for the Red Bulls, with former England lock Parling -- previously a member of Australia coach Joe Schmidt's backroom staff -- overseeing a decisive success.

From Barron's

Vitinha, a stellar performer in PSG's Champions League win, was the decisive performer with two stunning strikes to snuff out the Spurs lead, one with his right foot another with his left.

From BBC

"Over the past 11 years, India's aviation ecosystem has made a decisive leap, doubling the number of airports, aircraft, and passengers," Naidu said.

From Barron's

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

From Barron's

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

From BBC

Related Words

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