a definite decision

USAGE SUMMARY

"a definite decision" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to indicate that a decision has been made with certainty. For example: "After careful consideration, we have made a definite decision to move forward with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

Commenting on the ruling to TechCrunch, Marion Oswald, senior fellow in law at the University of Winchester, adds: "It seems to be definitely that the court is making a definite decision about the privacy impact of mass surveillance.

TechCrunch

"It's a definite decision but a difficult one.

The Guardian - Sport

So I can't give a definite decision right now because I don't have that.

The New York Times - Sports

LONDON — The allied delegates came to a definite decision yesterday afternoon [Jan.

The New York Times

Illumination occurs when resources fall into place and a definite decision is reached about the result or solution.

Britannica

"We haven't made a definite decision about what to do in that case, but we would consider closing down the Spiders," he added.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

While Coney's show had a level of open-endedness, there were still actors and directors shaping the audience's decisions towards a definite conclusion.

The Guardian - Tech

In addition, we took care that the pseudowords were not too similar to existing words and that the probe letters allowed a rather definite decision on whether it was included in a possible spelling of the pseudoword.

Human Brain Mapping

"There were hundreds of candidates but the president was able to make a quick and definite decision," he said.

The Guardian - Sport

He said he hoped to continue his campaign for United States Senate, but would not make any definite decisions about the race until he had settled on a course of treatment.

The New York Times

We know that only one genome from H. acinonychis, which can be available so far, as a reference is not sufficient to make definite decision for adaptation but it provides a possible way to screen the adapted genes to human host.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a definite decision" when you want to emphasize that a decision has been made with certainty and is unlikely to change. For instance, "After weighing all options, the board made "a definite decision" to invest in renewable energy".

Common error

While "a definite decision" implies certainty, avoid using it in contexts where the decision might still be subject to change or re-evaluation. Overstating the definiteness can undermine credibility if circumstances later shift.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a definite decision" functions as a noun phrase, where "definite" modifies the noun "decision", indicating the quality of being clearly defined and certain. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

33%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a definite decision" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that indicates a firm and certain resolution. Ludwig AI confirms this. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, it serves to convey certainty and finality. While various alternatives exist, such as "a firm resolution" or "a conclusive determination", the choice depends on the specific nuance desired. When using the phrase, ensure that the context aligns with the implied certainty to maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a firm resolution

Emphasizes the firmness and resolve behind the decision.

a conclusive determination

Highlights the finality and decisiveness of the determination.

a settled conclusion

Focuses on the aspect of the decision being resolved and finalized.

an unwavering choice

Stresses the steadfastness and lack of hesitation in the choice.

a decided course of action

Emphasizes the planned action resulting from the decision.

an irreversible commitment

Highlights the binding and unchangeable nature of the commitment.

a final verdict

Implies a judgment or ruling that is not subject to further appeal.

a clear resolution

Emphasizes the clarity and unambiguity of the resolution.

a precise judgment

Highlights the accuracy and exactness of the judgment.

an unalterable position

Stresses the rigidity and permanence of the stance taken.

FAQs

How can I use "a definite decision" in a sentence?

You can use "a definite decision" to emphasize that a choice or conclusion has been reached with certainty. For example, "The committee reached "a definite decision" on the project's funding after careful consideration."

What are some alternatives to "a definite decision"?

Alternatives include "a firm resolution", "a conclusive determination", or "a settled conclusion". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "a very definite decision"?

While not strictly incorrect, using "very" before "definite" can be redundant, as "definite" already implies a high degree of certainty. Consider using stronger alternatives or rephrasing for better impact.

When is it appropriate to use "a tentative decision" versus "a definite decision"?

"A tentative decision" suggests a preliminary conclusion that is still subject to change, whereas ""a definite decision"" implies a final and certain resolution. Use "tentative" when the decision is not yet final and "definite" when it is.