decidedly
Americanadverb
-
definitely or unambiguously; without qualification.
The many reviews I’ve read of that book have been decidedly lukewarm.
-
in a way that is free from hesitation or wavering; resolutely.
The heightened tension is occasioned by suicide bombers who have decidedly chosen death over life.
Etymology
Origin of decidedly
Explanation
Something described as being decidedly a certain way is absolutely that way, with no hint of doubt. If a character in a movie is decidedly evil, there's no question in your mind about it, it's so clearly true. The adverb decidedly is good for providing a strong emphasis. Your mom might be decidedly unhappy about your new car, or your grades might be decidedly improving this semester. In both cases, these things are undeniably clear. Decidedly comes from the adjective decided, or "resolute," from the Latin root decidere, "to decide or determine."
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
But the award received a decidedly mixed reception.
From BBC ● Oct. 2, 2026
It’s a decidedly unique production, as the 74-minute opera requires that performers and musicians calibrate the score and vocals to preexisting work.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 1, 2026
Dunkin’, in one of its decidedly undemure pink-and-orange vessels?
From Salon ● Sep. 23, 2026
While both Weil and Cravath have been losing ground to larger rivals such as Kirkland & Ellis, they are taking decidedly different strategies.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 12, 2026
"Well, it is not I," said Allun decidedly.
From "Rowan of Rin" by Emily Rodda
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
