a definitive decision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a definitive decision" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a final and conclusive choice or judgment made after consideration. Example: "After much deliberation, the committee reached a definitive decision regarding the funding allocation for the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

But some prosecutors say they are awaiting a definitive decision.

The New York Times

He quickly added, "There is not a definitive decision that has been made".

The New York Times

We expect a definitive decision to build ETOILE at the end of 2004.

Radiotherapy and Oncology

The logic behind their position is the idea that referendums are supposed to reach a definitive decision.

The Washington Post

"As far as we can tell, all procedures that were called for were being followed, but it's much too early to make a definitive decision," Mr. Bloomberg said.

The New York Times

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Mr. Sanford said that his inclination was to "carry on" as governor, but that he had not made a definitive decision.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

However, we identify a clear legislative foundation, a definitive decision-making body, the possibility to obtain public funding, and the preference for high quality study designs as constituting factors of an emerging international standard for CED.

Health Policy

"What we're likely to see is a very definitive decision in Friedrichs," said Paul Secunda, a labor law professor at Marquette University Law School, who signed onto a brief in support of the union.

Huffington Post

On both sides of the debate, what is being demanded of voters is that they make a final, definitive decision about the sort of country they want to live in.

The Guardian - Business

Let's hope for the jury's sake that they're able to reach a more definitive decision on Ortega at the end of her trial.

Vice

Should the Court review this decision, this case would, in its factual concept be a perfect and definitive decision in this area of the law".

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a definitive decision" when you want to emphasize the finality and certainty of a choice or judgment. It indicates that all considerations have been taken into account, and the matter is settled.

Common error

While "a definitive decision" is appropriate in many contexts, avoid overusing it. Vary your language by using alternatives such as "a final judgment" or "a conclusive determination" to maintain reader interest.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a definitive decision" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb. It signifies a final and conclusive choice, judgment, or resolution. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and usable in written English. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a definitive decision" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that conveys the idea of a final and conclusive choice or judgment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's versatile enough for use across various registers, from neutral news reports to more formal academic and professional settings. To avoid repetition, consider using synonyms such as "a conclusive determination" or "a final judgment". Remember to use it when you want to stress the finality and certainty of a decision, indicating that all considerations have been thoroughly addressed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a conclusive determination

Emphasizes the finality and certainty of the determination.

a firm resolution

Highlights the steadfast nature of the decision.

a final judgment

Focuses on the legal or authoritative aspect of the decision.

an ultimate choice

Stresses that the decision is the last one possible.

a settled conclusion

Implies that the decision has been carefully considered and is now final.

a decisive call

Highlights the active nature and impact of the decision.

an irreversible decision

Emphasizes that the decision cannot be undone or changed.

a binding verdict

Implies a formal and obligatory agreement.

a clear resolution

Highlights the clarity and comprehensiveness of the resolution

a definitive resolution

Stresses that the resolution is clear and unambiguous.

FAQs

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

You can use "a definitive decision" to indicate a final and conclusive choice. For example, "The board has reached "a definitive decision" regarding the company's future strategy".

What can I say instead of "a definitive decision"?

You can use alternatives like "a conclusive determination", "a final judgment", or "a firm resolution" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a definitive decision" or "a definite decision"?

Both "a definitive decision" and "a definite decision" are grammatically correct, but "a definitive decision" implies a more thorough and conclusive process, while "a definite decision" simply means clear and certain.

What's the difference between "a definitive decision" and "a preliminary decision"?

"A definitive decision" is a final and conclusive judgment, whereas "a preliminary decision" is a temporary or initial decision that may be subject to change.