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decisive

adj.
US //dɪˈsaɪsɪv// UK //dɪsˈaɪsɪv// de·ci·sive
  1. 1 making quick choices (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    able to make decisions quickly and with confidence.

    characterised by the ability to make firm decisions promptly and without hesitation.

    Example

    A decisive leader is needed to guide the company through this crisis.

    Example

    The board sought a decisive chief executive who could implement the necessary reforms without succumbing to internal political pressure.

    Usage

    Usually describes a person's character or a specific action taken by a person.
  2. 2 settling an issue (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    settling something once and for all, or providing a clear result.

    having the power to settle a dispute or determine the final outcome of a situation.

    Example

    The team scored a decisive goal in the final minute of the game.

    Example

    The archaeological evidence provided a decisive answer to the long-standing debate regarding the city's original boundaries.

    Usage

    Often used with nouns like 'victory', 'factor', 'evidence', or 'action'.
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  1. 3 clear and certain (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    very clear and easy to see; leaving no doubt.

    unmistakable or definite in nature; leaving no room for doubt or uncertainty.

    Example

    There has been a decisive improvement in her test scores this term.

    Example

    The data showed a decisive shift in consumer behaviour following the introduction of the new environmental regulations.

    Teacher's tip

    In this sense, 'decisive' is often used in academic or professional reports to describe trends or changes.
Origin

From Middle French décisif, equivalent to decide + -ive.

Word family

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