decisive figure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "decisive figure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who plays a crucial role in making important decisions or influencing outcomes in a particular context. Example: "In the negotiations, she emerged as a decisive figure, guiding the team towards a successful agreement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Deng was the decisive figure in the reform.

The New York Times

Phil Davis had claims to being the most decisive figure on Saturday afternoon at the MCG.

The Guardian - Sport

From the reporting that I've read, he may have been a decisive figure.

The New Yorker

Javier Solana, who was NATO's secretary general, is also portrayed as a decisive figure who tried to rally support in Europe for the bombing.

The New York Times

The casual observer would never have guessed that he will be the decisive figure in Fabio Capello's future as England manager.

Independent

But there must also have been a sense of vindication, of relief at having been the decisive figure in the second leg after having been so innocuous in the first.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

On Saturday, Verdasco and López, the two decisive figures in last year's upset of Argentina, proceeded to play one of their finest matches.

The New York Times - Sports

As theological adviser to Cardinal Joseph Frings, the archbishop of Cologne and one of the decisive figures at the Second Vatican Council, a younger Joseph Ratzinger played a key role in awakening his church from centuries of reactionary slumber.

The Guardian

The real Galerie figured with more actuality in her later life when, during the Peace Conference, Miss de Wolfe kept open house in her Villa Trianon at Versailles for such decisive figures as Lord Northcliffe, Balfour, General Pershing, Maréchals Foch and Joffre, and Clemenceau.

The New Yorker

He pushed Mr Bush forcefully to the right on everything from global warming to the invasion of Iraq; he also fought ruthlessly to expand the power of the executive branch, which he thought had been dangerously restricted since Watergate.The two other decisive figures were Karl Rove, Mr Bush's longtime political guru, and Donald Rumsfeld, his defence secretary.

The Economist

He traced the rebellion against monism first to Machiavelli, and depicted Vico and Herder as decisive figures.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone as a "decisive figure", provide specific examples of their decisions or actions that demonstrate their decisiveness. This adds credibility to your description.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "decisive figure" as a generic compliment. Always ensure the context clearly shows how the person's decisiveness impacted the situation or outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "decisive figure" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "decisive" modifies the noun "figure". It typically identifies an individual who plays a crucial role in influencing or determining an outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

23%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "decisive figure" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe individuals who significantly influence outcomes. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its correct usage in diverse contexts such as news, science, and formal settings. While "decisive figure" is common, it's important to use it with specific context to highlight their contribution clearly. Alternatives such as "key player" and "pivotal figure" offer nuanced variations depending on the intended emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

key player

Focuses on the importance of the person as a participant.

pivotal figure

Highlights the turning-point nature of the person's influence.

influential person

Emphasizes the power to affect others or situations.

driving force

Suggests the person provides the impetus for action.

central figure

Indicates a position of importance and focus.

leading light

Implies guidance and inspiration.

significant individual

Stresses the importance and impact of the person.

important person

A simpler way to express someone of influence.

key individual

Similar to "key player" but emphasizes individuality.

critical player

Underscores the essential nature of the person's role.

FAQs

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

You can use "decisive figure" to describe someone who makes important decisions or has a significant impact on events. For example: "The CEO was the "decisive figure" in the company's turnaround."

What's the difference between "decisive figure" and "influential person"?

"Decisive figure" emphasizes the ability to make impactful decisions, while "influential person" highlights the power to affect others. An "influential person" may not always be decisive, and vice versa.

What are some alternatives to saying "decisive figure"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "key player", "pivotal figure", or "driving force".

Is "decisive figure" formal or informal language?

"Decisive figure" is generally considered neutral to formal language and is appropriate for both news articles and academic writing.