1
2
3

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 Though the Fever took the Aces to the brink in decisive Game 5 of the semifinals on Friday, their star power took over —- something the Mercury likely took note of. Ben Pickman, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2025 Directed by Đặng Thái Huyền and co-written with novelist Chu Lai, the picture dramatizes the 81-day defense of the Quảng Trị Citadel in 1972, one of the most decisive battles of the Vietnam War. Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 1 Oct. 2025 He is remembered for decisive leadership during the closing months of World War II, the beginning of the Cold War, and the implementation of the Marshall Plan. Monty Davis, Kansas City Star, 30 Sep. 2025 Their Firefly-class vessel Serenity (no definite article) is named after the decisive, and very bloody, Battle of Serenity Valley that effectively ended the conflict. Richard Edwards, Space.com, 30 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for decisive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for decisive
Adjective
  • Malick Thiaw and Sven Botman have been drafted in at centre-half, through no fault of Fabian Schar and Dan Burn, and have been resolute.
    George Caulkin, New York Times, 6 Oct. 2025
  • Takaichi has promised to be a resolute leader, but will need to learn the art of compromise while juggling priorities and trade-offs on domestic policies.
    Jeff Kingston, Time, 4 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • In this framework, the new recommendations are actively harmful, and not grounded in conclusive research.
    Dr. Sunny Patel, Time, 2 Oct. 2025
  • The publication also noted that despite there being no conclusive evidence that Assata was directly to blame for the death of Foerster, New Jersey law stated that everyone involved was equally responsible for the murder.
    Chris Barilla, PEOPLE, 26 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The absence of any definitive answer only invites more intrigue within an organization unafraid to make drastic changes.
    Chandler Rome, New York Times, 30 Sep. 2025
  • Of course, there is no definitive answer to the question of which royal princess has more aura, which is itself a highly subjective concept.
    Jack Royston, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Carman is determined to keep expanding her work and wants every first responder to have access to a therapy dog.
    Kathleen Toner, CNN Money, 3 Oct. 2025
  • The vehicle will primarily drive pre-determined routes, act as a visual crime deterrent and display key messages to the community from its windows.
    Devoun Cetoute, Miami Herald, 3 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • This new Taiwanese series looks compelling.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 3 Oct. 2025
  • That's what makes the minerals Perseverance spotted — particularly greigite in the leopard spots — so compelling.
    Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 3 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Supplies are limited, and at this price, codes won’t last long.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 4 Oct. 2025
  • Overall, crime in Over-the-Rhine, where thousands of people visit every weekend for dining and nightlife, is up by about 47% compared to last year, according to a city database.
    Matthew Cupelli, Cincinnati Enquirer, 4 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Her acting roots remain visible, but KIPS is the work of a producer and architect—someone intent on shaping a platform rather than waiting for a script.
    Shelby Stewart, Essence, 30 Sep. 2025
  • But does that really apply to Gabriel if the Browns are intent on taking another quarterback next year, anyway?
    Jason Lloyd, New York Times, 28 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Phishing scams often use convincing logos and language to trick you into revealing sensitive information.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 30 Sep. 2025
  • The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application goes live on October 1, but with student aid season underway, there is an onslaught of new and convincing scams within the education system.
    Suzanne Blake, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Sep. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Decisive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/decisive. Accessed 6 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on decisive

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!