decisive stage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "decisive stage" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a critical point in a process or situation where a decision must be made or where the outcome is determined. Example: "The negotiations reached a decisive stage, where both parties had to agree on the final terms."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

"I think today was the decisive stage," Andy Schleck said.

The New York Times - Sports

That is bold, but at least the process has reached a decisive stage.

The Economist

Its purchase was a decisive stage in Moore's move from the private to the public arena.

The Guardian - Arts

As John Kerry's Israeli-Palestinian peace initiative moves into a decisive stage, two Jerusalem truths are becoming crystal clear.

The Guardian - Opinion

Unlike in the previous two Tours, he will not enter the penultimate and decisive stage behind Alberto Contador of Spain.

The New York Times - Sports

Recent developments triggered by the proposal to designate, amongst others, a large part of the Western European Atlantic a PSSA have brought the instrument to a decisive stage.

Marine Policy

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

King's College was the decisive staging ground for Keynes's future development.

The New York Times - Books

He said the subsequent mountain stages in the Giro, which ends May 31 in Rome, would be the decisive stages.

The New York Times - Sports

In these works, too, Ranke deals with the leading European states at decisive stages of their development within the European system.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The victory also marked new territory for Team Sky, who had never faced the job of defending the race lead in the decisive stages of an event of this stature and difficulty.

The Guardian - Sport

MELBOURNE, Australia Controversial officiating again became a factor in the decisive stages of a match at the 2012 Australian Open, as a women's doubles quarterfinal was extended past what should have been the final point by an incorrect call.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing projects or processes, use "decisive stage" to pinpoint the moment when the outcome hinges on a particular action or decision. For example: "The project entered a "decisive stage" when the team secured funding."

Common error

Avoid using "decisive stage" for every important moment. Reserve it for stages where a specific decision or action definitively influences the final outcome. Overusing it dilutes its impact and suggests that every step carries equal weight.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "decisive stage" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "decisive" modifies the noun "stage". The phrase typically refers to a critical point in a process or event where the outcome is significantly influenced.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

2%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "decisive stage" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to denote a crucial point where actions or decisions have a significant impact on the outcome. As Ludwig AI points out, it is often used to highlight the importance of a particular phase. Appearing frequently in "News & Media", "Science", and "Formal & Business" contexts, "decisive stage" emphasizes the critical nature of a moment. When writing, remember to use it to pinpoint those moments when a specific decision will definitively influence the final outcome. Consider alternatives like "pivotal phase" or "critical juncture" to add variety to your writing, ensuring that the gravity of a "decisive stage" is accurately conveyed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pivotal phase

Focuses on the turning point nature of the stage, emphasizing its importance in changing the course of events.

critical juncture

Highlights the importance of the stage as a point where a crucial decision or action is required.

turning point

Emphasizes the shift or change that occurs at this stage.

crucial moment

Underscores the significance and potential impact of this specific point in time.

key phase

Highlights the importance and essential nature of the phase in the overall process.

essential period

Focuses on the necessity and importance of this time frame for achieving a desired outcome.

significant milestone

Emphasizes the achievement or progress marked by this stage.

important juncture

Stresses the importance and potential consequences of this specific point in the process.

defining moment

Highlights the stage's role in shaping the future outcome or direction.

climactic point

Suggests the stage represents the peak or most intense part of a process or event.

FAQs

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

You can use "decisive stage" to describe a point where the outcome depends on a particular action. For example, "The negotiations entered a "decisive stage" when both parties agreed to mediation."

What are some alternatives to "decisive stage"?

Alternatives include "pivotal phase", "critical juncture", or "turning point", depending on the specific context you want to emphasize.

Is it appropriate to use "decisive stage" in formal writing?

Yes, "decisive stage" is suitable for formal writing. It's often found in news articles, academic papers, and business reports to denote a critical point in a process or event.

What is the difference between "decisive stage" and "important stage"?

"Decisive stage" indicates a point where the outcome is determined, whereas "important stage" simply signifies a significant point. The "decisive stage" carries more weight because actions taken during it directly impact the final result.