decisive

[dih-sahy-siv]

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.

decisive

/ dɪˈsaɪsɪv /

adjective

1. influential; conclusive

   a decisive argument

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

Other Word Forms

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of decisive¹

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

Example Sentences

Roger Milla had already put Cameroon ahead in extra time when Higuita received an awkward pass and took a loose touch that was pounced on by the forward, who rolled in a decisive second.

From BBC

Williams made seven catches for 180 yards, including two decisive receptions in the fourth quarter to help the Braves rally from a 14-7 deficit.

From Los Angeles Times

In an address to reservists at Nachshonim base in central Israel on Tuesday, Zamir declared that the IDF was preparing for nothing less than "decisive victory".

From BBC

His pitch to the membership was to move away from the tried-and-tested, with a decisive shunt to the left and a more confrontational communication style.

From BBC

The dramatic turn of events at the end of a chaotic race featuring three safety cars and multiple crashes and incidents could be decisive in the private title fight between Piastri and Norris.

From BBC

Related Words

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