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Synonym Chooser

How is the word decisive different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of decisive are conclusive, definitive, and determinative. While all these words mean "bringing to an end," decisive may apply to something that ends a controversy, a contest, or any uncertainty.

a decisive battle

When is conclusive a more appropriate choice than decisive?

In some situations, the words conclusive and decisive are roughly equivalent. However, conclusive applies to reasoning or logical proof that puts an end to debate or questioning.

conclusive evidence

When can definitive be used instead of decisive?

The words definitive and decisive are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, definitive applies to what is put forth as final and permanent.

the definitive biography

When is it sensible to use determinative instead of decisive?

The meanings of determinative and decisive largely overlap; however, determinative adds an implication of giving a fixed character or direction.

the determinative factor in the court's decision

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of decisive Figure Out The 'Must-Haves' Constraints often lead to innovation, and this is where leadership has to be decisive, resourceful and transparent. Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 9 May 2025 The most decisive unknown is whether Villa qualify for the Champions League again. Jacob Tanswell, New York Times, 8 May 2025 The Timberwolves were basking in the glow of this decisive victory over the league’s glamour franchise. Jon Krawczynski, New York Times, 1 May 2025 Building trust and momentum early often makes the decisive difference between success and failure. Christoph Knitter, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for decisive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for decisive
Adjective
  • The closest thing that comes to mind is probably Terrence Malick’s The Tree of Life, although this is Malick by way of Jane Campion and Michael Haneke, shifting between fleeting coming-of-age moments and scenes of resolute darkness and human cruelty.
    Jordan Mintzer, HollywoodReporter, 14 May 2025
  • It was never sold in the U.S. thanks to the unwavering objections of a resolute reviewer at the FDA named Frances Oldham Kelsey.
    David Armstrong, CNN Money, 10 May 2025
Adjective
  • Perhaps the most conclusive evidence assembled has been the 800 page report and interactive digital platform by experts at Forensic Architecture.
    Zac Ntim, Deadline, 15 May 2025
  • The filmmakers are never conclusive about Enzo’s burgeoning sexuality nor his plans for the future, and that’s clearly by design.
    Jordan Mintzer, HollywoodReporter, 14 May 2025
Adjective
  • Crypto Confidential: Forbes' definitive guide to crypto and blockchain, delivered to your inbox every Saturday.
    Sean Stein Smith, Forbes.com, 17 May 2025
  • Misch’s lawyer has previously argued that there’s no definitive proof Michaela actually died.
    Nate Gartrell, Mercury News, 14 May 2025
Adjective
  • And if culture is the battlefield, Abdul Muhammad II is determined to win—not with force, but with wisdom.
    Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 10 May 2025
  • Animal lovers have been left in stitches by a young German shepherd dog who discovered a spot of light on the floor and was determined to get to the bottom of it.
    Rachael O'Connor, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 May 2025
Adjective
  • Densmore was a jazz drummer, Manzarek was steeped in Chicago blues, Morrison was a poet with a compelling set of pipes, and Krieger was a flamenco guitarist.
    Marco della Cava, USA Today, 14 May 2025
  • The underlying rationale for sending people has to be compelling enough to justify the risk to lives and the cost of the missions.
    Bruce Jakosky, Space.com, 14 May 2025
Adjective
  • One of his memorable performances was with the San Diego Wind Ensemble at San Marcos High School last February.
    Julie Gallant, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 May 2025
  • She will be joined by special guests Girl In Red and The Last Dinner Party, who were confirmed for the gig last November.
    Sophie Williams, Billboard, 13 May 2025
Adjective
  • If the players were intent on sticking to their set routines, chairman Steve Parish was the opposite.
    Matt Woosnam, New York Times, 19 May 2025
  • The La Jolla Shores Permit Review Committee returned to meeting online this week, and though its first meeting back on Zoom since the COVID-19 pandemic didn’t go as smoothly as hoped, the board is intent on sticking to the virtual format.
    Noah Lyons, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 May 2025
Adjective
  • Drucker is able to conjure a frosty authority that is entirely convincing, while simultaneously hinting at vulnerabilities that nobody within the narrative is allowed to see.
    Stephanie Bunbury, Deadline, 15 May 2025
  • After a convincing defeat to a team looking to get back to the Cup Final, the question is, how close is Vegas’ championship window to closing?
    Jesse Granger, New York Times, 15 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Decisive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/decisive. Accessed 23 May. 2025.

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