less decisive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less decisive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is not as firm or resolute in making decisions compared to another person or thing. Example: "In the meeting, her less decisive nature led to prolonged discussions without reaching a conclusion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The selection of the key-informant participants may also be biased, due to their active role in the implementation of the newborn hearing screening programme, and some other stakeholders, whose action could be considered as less decisive in the decision-making process, not being interviewed; this would result in a lack of completeness in the study.

Health Research Policy and Systems

In domestic affairs his influence was less decisive.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Democrats were bracing for a less decisive outcome.

The Washington Post

Has this proliferation of data made people less decisive?

The Guardian

Fodor concludes that these considerations are far less decisive than has been supposed.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

He was becoming less decisive and more distrustful of his advisers.

The New York Times - Magazine

Today, the influence of flavour in the world marketplace is no less decisive.

The Guardian - Books

Flynn was less decisive about Flowers, saying only: "We'll wait to see what happens tomorrow night".

The Guardian

Certainly the president was far less decisive when he took office in 1993.

The New York Times

I am satisfied had a less decisive course been adopted that the worst consequences would have resulted from it.

Yale University

For Bayern, 39 shots over two legs proved less decisive than three gifts, each greater than the last.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person's character, use "less decisive" to imply a tendency toward indecisiveness without being overly critical. It suggests a need for further development in decision-making skills.

Common error

Avoid using "less decisive" when the context demands immediate and firm action. In situations where a clear and rapid decision is crucial, this phrase can suggest an unacceptable level of uncertainty or hesitation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less decisive" primarily functions as an adjective phrase. It modifies a noun or pronoun to indicate a reduced level of decisiveness compared to something else, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

18%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "less decisive" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adjective phrase that indicates a reduced degree of decisiveness. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and broad applicability. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias, it serves to offer nuanced comparative assessments. For situations needing direct and definitive language, writers should consider alternative phrasing to maintain a tone that is more suitable. Always select language with the correct degree of forcefulness to prevent misinterpretation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not as conclusive

Emphasizes the lack of a final or definitive resolution.

somewhat indecisive

Highlights a degree of hesitation or uncertainty.

not very determined

Focuses on a lack of firmness in purpose or action.

lacking resolution

Stresses the absence of a clear decision or solution.

more hesitant

Indicates a greater level of reluctance or delay.

not so definitive

Focuses on a reduced level of clarity and precision.

relatively uncertain

Highlights the presence of doubt or unpredictability.

not as impactful

Shifts the focus to a weaker influence or effect.

less forceful

Emphasizes a reduction in strength or intensity.

weaker

A more general term indicating a lack of strength or effectiveness.

FAQs

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

You can use "less decisive" to describe actions or outcomes that aren't definitive. For instance: "The battle was less decisive than expected" or "He was becoming "less decisive" and more distrustful of his advisers".

What are some alternatives to saying "less decisive"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "more hesitant", "not as conclusive", or "somewhat indecisive".

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

Yes, "less decisive" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when providing objective analysis. It's commonly found in news, academic papers, and business reports.

What does it mean when someone is described as "less decisive"?

It means they are showing a tendency to avoid making firm choices or reaching definite conclusions. This could stem from caution, uncertainty, or a desire to consider all options.