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Definition of decisive

decisive

/dɪˈsaɪ.sɪv/
de · ci · sive
Adverb:decisively
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decisive Lexical Profile

decisive Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Settling an issue; producing a definite and unmistakable result.

Example

"The Supreme Court's ruling was a decisive moment in the nation's legal history."

2

Having or showing the ability to make decisions quickly and effectively.

Example

"A crisis of this magnitude requires a decisive leader who will not hesitate under pressure."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for decisive

• Nearby Words

decipherment
decision
decisionmaker
decisive
decisively
decisiveness
deck

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 17th century from French décisif or Medieval Latin decisivus, from Latin decis-, past participial stem of decidere ('to determine' or literally 'to cut off'), from de- ('off') and caedere ('to cut').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Decisive. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/decisive
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