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

With the game delicately poised, Ireland wing Rob Baloucoune marked his Six Nations debut with a decisive try before Jack Crowley's penalty moved the home side 10 points clear.

From BBC

They have come so tantalizingly close to so many golds that they now hold a decisive lead in another category: silver medals.

From The Wall Street Journal

In 2024, it was Scotland's ability to get it to the wide channels early that was decisive.

From BBC

Since then, Iran has also crossed a decisive threshold in this area.

From The Wall Street Journal

The season is entering its decisive stretch and Alexander-Arnold has the opportunity to reassert himself.

From BBC

Related Words

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