could be decisive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could be decisive" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something having a significant impact on the outcome of a situation, as in the following example: This last test result could be decisive in determining whether or not the patient needs surgery.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His clout could be decisive.

The New York Times

It could be decisive.

The New York Times

Again, their participation could be decisive.

Independent

Either one could be decisive.

The New York Times

He thought that could be decisive.

The New York Times - Sports

The German presidency could be decisive".

The Guardian - Business

6.33pm: Dan reckons the time difference could be decisive.

The Guardian

Because the race is so close, turnout could be decisive.

The New York Times

If they do, their encounters with Newcastle could be decisive.

The Guardian - Sport

In states predicting tight races Ohio, Florida, Pennsylvania this barrier could be decisive to the outcome.

University of California, Berkeley

The difference between the two blocs may seem small, but it could be decisive.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "could be decisive", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the outcome depends on. Avoid vagueness by explicitly stating the elements at stake.

Common error

Avoid using "could be decisive" when the outcome is already determined or heavily skewed. This phrase is most effective when the situation involves genuine uncertainty and significant potential impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could be decisive" functions as a predicate adjective, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate a potential characteristic. Ludwig AI, confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. This suggests that the element in question has the potential to significantly impact a final outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

18%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "could be decisive" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression indicating the potential for something to significantly influence an outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, its versatility shines across diverse contexts—from serious news and scientific research to academic discussions. While its use is most common in news and media, it also appears in scientific and academic contexts. When using the phrase, it is important to be specific about what the outcome depends on and to avoid using it in situations where the result is already predetermined. By understanding its nuances, you can harness the power of "could be decisive" to add precision and impact to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

may determine the outcome

Directly reflects the capacity to settle the final result, showcasing its conclusive nature.

could prove pivotal

Indicates a central point around which something turns, conveying a substantial effect.

may have a critical impact

Focuses on the significant effect it can produce, stressing the importance of the impact.

may significantly influence

Highlights the power of the action in directing an outcome, suggesting it is more than just contributing.

may play a vital role

Shows the active role it plays, highlighting its necessity and significance.

might prove crucial

Emphasizes the potential for a critical impact, suggesting that it is not yet certain but likely.

might be instrumental

Expresses that it may act as a means to achieve a specific purpose, suggesting importance but not necessarily decisiveness.

could tip the balance

Highlights a slight advantage that ultimately determines the result, implying a close contest.

may turn the tide

Suggests a shift in momentum, implying a reversal of fortune or outcome.

might be the key

Emphasizes that it may be essential for a specific resolution, implying it is indispensable.

FAQs

How can I use "could be decisive" in a sentence?

Use "could be decisive" to indicate that something has the potential to significantly impact the final outcome of a situation. For example, "This last test result "could be decisive" in determining whether the patient needs surgery."

What can I say instead of "could be decisive"?

You can use alternatives like "might prove crucial", "may turn the tide", or "could tip the balance" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "could be decisive" or "will be decisive"?

"Could be decisive" indicates a possibility, while "will be decisive" suggests certainty. Choose the phrase that best reflects the level of certainty you want to convey. If there's uncertainty, ""could be decisive"" is more appropriate.

What's the difference between "could be decisive" and "could be important"?

"Could be important" suggests significance, while ""could be decisive"" implies that something will ultimately determine the outcome. "Decisive" carries a stronger weight.