decidedly

American  

[dih-sahy-did-lee] / dɪˈsaɪ dɪd li /

adverb

1. definitely or unambiguously; without qualification.

   The many reviews I’ve read of that book have been decidedly lukewarm.

2. 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.

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Etymology

Origin of decidedly

decided ( def. ) + -ly

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

Their friendship remains warm, as the one between the leaders seems decidedly chilly.

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2026

As stocks slipped lower over the past five weeks, sophisticated institutional investors turned decidedly bearish.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

“This proposal is decidedly neutral and refrains from saying that any asset class is any better or worse than other investment types.”

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

Under the crisp blue skies, one of the protesters, Drew Fausett, told The Times in a phone interview that he is a registered Republican in the decidedly red state.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 28, 2026

“Right, Jo. Better be happy old maids than unhappy wives, or unmaidenly girls, running about to find husbands,” said Mrs. March decidedly.

From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott

Related Words

• clearly
• determinedly
• distinctly
• downright
• positively
• really
• terribly
• unmistakably