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

In the 2021-22 season, he played a decisive role in Real Madrid's Champions League triumph.

From BBC

Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds said the government is "taking decisive action" to "stop waste criminals in their tracks and bring those responsible swiftly to justice".

From BBC

Lawyers who know Eaton weren’t surprised to see the seasoned judge take such a decisive and practical approach.

From The Wall Street Journal

A relative newcomer to the Federal Reserve system, Beth Hammack has nevertheless been a decisive voice at the central bank since she became president and CEO of the Cleveland Fed in August 2024.

From Barron's

Those who have served alongside him in the Middle East and other parts of the world say Cooper is thoughtful, decisive and cool under pressure.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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