definitive decision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "definitive decision" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used 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 new policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 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

Without any definitive decision on choice of a company, the board approved in principle a strategic plan for Time's expansion.

Harvard University

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

The Washington Post

There were awkward moments, and meetings at which employees seemed confused about who was the definitive decision maker.

Harvard Business Review

Despite one ruling which has been kept secret, no definitive decision has yet been reached by the country's judicial system.

The New York Times

No definitive decision has been made and no names were formally proposed at Wednesday's (rather brief) EU Western Balkans Summit in Sarajevo.

The Guardian - Opinion

"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

And yet, for all that, he has a point about Greece needing to make a definitive decision about what course it wants to follow.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "definitive decision" when you want to emphasize the finality and conclusiveness of a choice or judgment. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts where clarity and certainty are important.

Common error

While "definitive decision" is generally acceptable, be mindful of overusing it in very casual conversations where simpler phrases like "final choice" might sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definitive decision" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or subject complement in a sentence. It signifies a choice or judgment that is final and conclusive, as supported by Ludwig examples. The grammatical status, according to Ludwig AI, is correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

22%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "definitive decision" is a commonly used noun phrase that conveys the sense of a final and conclusive choice. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across diverse contexts, including news, science, and academia. While highly versatile, it's best practice to reserve it for situations where the finality of a decision needs emphasis. Alternative phrases like "final verdict" or "conclusive resolution" can be used for stylistic variation, as listed in Ludwig's related phrases. With its widespread use and clear meaning, understanding "definitive decision" and its context is essential for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Definitive resolution

Resolution is used in place of decision but the core meaning stays intact.

Decisive choice

Focuses on the act of choosing with determination.

Conclusive resolution

Substitutes 'definitive' with 'conclusive' and 'decision' with 'resolution', suggesting a firm and settled outcome.

Final verdict

Replaces 'decision' with 'verdict', implying a judgment, often in a legal context.

Authoritative judgment

Stresses the official and respected nature of the decision.

Resolute determination

Emphasizes the firmness and unwavering nature of the decision.

Clear cut resolution

Indicates a resolution that is straightforward and leaves no room for ambiguity.

Unambiguous conclusion

Highlights the clarity and lack of doubt in the final outcome.

Settled agreement

Implies that the decision is the result of negotiation and agreement.

Irreversible determination

Highlights the inability to change or undo the decision.

FAQs

How to use "definitive decision" in a sentence?

You can use "definitive decision" when you want to emphasize that a decision is final and not subject to change. For example: "After much deliberation, the board reached a "definitive decision" about the company's future direction."

What can I say instead of "definitive decision"?

You can use alternatives like "final verdict", "conclusive resolution", or "decisive choice", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "definitive decision" or "final decision"?

Both "definitive decision" and "final decision" are correct, but "definitive decision" emphasizes the unchangeable nature of the decision more strongly.

What's the difference between "definitive decision" and "tentative decision"?

A "definitive decision" is a final, unchangeable decision, while a "tentative decision" is a provisional one that is subject to change.