decisive evidence

USAGE SUMMARY

'decisive evidence' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as a noun phrase to refer to evidence that is so convincing or substantial that it can be decisive in reaching a conclusion or making a decision. For example, "The prosecuting attorney presented decisive evidence that helped to convict the suspect."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Let's suppose the tape was decisive evidence of genocide.

The New York Times

The really decisive evidence on government cuts, however, comes from Europe.

The New York Times

Former prosecutors said the tape would be decisive evidence in any legal forum if it were admitted.

The New York Times

His uncorroborated evidence had been, if not the sole evidence, then at least the decisive evidence against the defendant.

The Guardian

Federal regulators have now provided decisive evidence of the cynical behavior of major energy companies in the power crisis that crippled California's economy in 2000 and 2001.

The New York Times

The forecast was seen by many as decisive evidence of the renewal of the oil age, while informed detractors were at best ignored, at worst ridiculed.

The Guardian

It was decisive evidence that we're a nation of deranged babies, spewing empty aspirations all over the place, and are all really, really thick to boot.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

makes it clear that U.S. intelligence has been unable to find decisive evidence that Iran has been moving enriched uranium to an underground weapon-making center.

The New Yorker

Notably, it was not until Milken's sentencing hearing, long after he had pleaded guilty, that decisive evidence about this question became public.

The New Yorker

Decisive evidence will emerge that stabilising the earth's climate is in fact not costly but profitable (because saving fuel costs less than buying it).

The Economist

Atheism may be intellectually viable, but it requires its own arguments and can't merely cite the lack of decisive evidence for religion.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting "decisive evidence", ensure that its relevance to the argument is clearly explained. Don't assume the audience will automatically understand its significance.

Common error

Avoid labeling evidence as "decisive" if it's only strongly suggestive. Overstating the strength of evidence can weaken your argument if challenged.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "decisive evidence" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes evidence that is crucial in determining an outcome or confirming a conclusion. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable and correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

31%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "decisive evidence" is a commonly used and grammatically sound noun phrase that indicates compelling proof. As Ludwig AI accurately points out, it's perfectly acceptable for use in written English. Its presence in numerous reputable sources like The New York Times, The Guardian and scientific journals, confirms its broad applicability across various contexts, particularly in science and news reporting. When using the phrase, remember to ensure the evidence truly warrants the label of "decisive" to maintain credibility. Consider alternatives like "conclusive proof" or "compelling evidence" to fine-tune the specific nuance of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

conclusive proof

Emphasizes the irrefutable nature of the evidence.

irrefutable evidence

Highlights that the evidence cannot be argued against.

compelling evidence

Focuses on the strength and persuasiveness of the evidence.

definitive evidence

Suggests that the evidence settles a matter finally.

incontrovertible evidence

Stresses that the evidence is undeniable and cannot be disputed.

overwhelming evidence

Indicates a large amount of evidence pointing to the same conclusion.

clear-cut evidence

Highlights the unambiguous nature of the evidence.

telling evidence

Focuses on the significance and impact of the evidence.

probative evidence

Emphasizes that the evidence has the quality of proving something.

critical evidence

Highlights the importance and necessity of the evidence.

FAQs

How can I use "decisive evidence" in a sentence?

You can use "decisive evidence" to describe proof that strongly influences a conclusion or decision. For example, "The prosecution presented "decisive evidence" linking the suspect to the crime scene".

What are some alternatives to saying "decisive evidence"?

Alternatives include "compelling evidence", "conclusive proof", or "irrefutable evidence". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "decisive evidence" or "strong evidence"?

"Decisive evidence" suggests the proof is compelling enough to resolve an issue or argument, while "strong evidence" simply indicates substantial support. The former implies a higher level of certainty.

What makes evidence "decisive"?

Evidence is considered "decisive" when it is so compelling and relevant that it effectively resolves a question or settles a dispute. It leaves little room for doubt or alternative interpretations.