Dictionary
decisive
adjective de·ci·sive \di-ˈsī-siv\
: able to make choices quickly and confidently
: causing something to end in a particular way : determining what the result of something will be
: very clear and obvious
Full Definition of DECISIVE
1
: having the power or quality of deciding <a decisive battle>
2
: resolute, determined <a decisive manner>
3
: unmistakable, unquestionable <a decisive superiority>
— de·ci·sive·ly adverb
— de·ci·sive·ness noun
See decisive defined for English-language learners
See decisive defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
First Known Use of DECISIVE
1611
Related to DECISIVE
- Synonyms
- bent (on or upon), bound, determined, do-or-die, firm, hell-bent (on or upon), intent, out, purposeful, resolute, resolved, set, single-minded
- Antonyms
- faltering, hesitant, indecisive, irresolute, undetermined, unresolved, vacillating, wavering, weak-kneed
Synonym Discussion of DECISIVE
conclusive, decisive, determinative, definitive mean bringing to an end. conclusive applies to reasoning or logical proof that puts an end to debate or questioning <conclusive evidence>. decisive may apply to something that ends a controversy, a contest, or any uncertainty <a decisive battle>. determinative adds an implication of giving a fixed character or direction <the determinative factor in the court's decision>. definitive applies to what is put forth as final and permanent <the definitive biography>.
DECISIVELY Defined for Kids
decisive
adjective de·ci·sive \di-ˈsī-siv\
Definition of DECISIVE for Kids
1
: causing something to end in a certain way <The lawyer offered decisive proof.>
2
: unmistakable, unquestionable <a decisive victory>
3
: firmly determined <He began in a decisive manner.>
— de·ci·sive·ly adverb
Learn More About DECISIVE
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: decisterePrevious Word in the Dictionary: decision treeAll Words Near: decisive
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up decisive? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).