make a definite decision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make a definite decision" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when emphasizing the importance of being clear and resolute in making a choice or judgment. Example: "After much consideration, I have decided to make a definite decision regarding my career path."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

As noted in a previous blog post, I received a significant scholarship, but I still don't think this is enough for me to make a definite decision.

The New York Times

Neal Kendall, a co-executive producer of the show, said that Oxygen just waited until "the final days of the option" to make a definite decision.

The New York Times - Arts

PARIS — France's failure to make a definite decision about its energy future has left it with little choice but to extend the life of its existing nuclear power plants, an independent government agency said Tuesday.

The New York Times

Before you make a definite decision to jump ship, however, consider having a frank discussion with the person who hired your new boss.

Duke University

That is why I primarily go to a tournament to try to enjoy it, and to look at players with maybe a thought towards signing them but never to make a definite decision about it.

BBC

As the BPC6 models in both of the registers form stable dimers, we can not make a definite decision on the register conformation.

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Commenting on the ruling to TechCrunch, Marion Oswald, senior fellow in law at the University of Winchester, adds: "It seems to be definitely that the court is making a definite decision about the privacy impact of mass surveillance.

TechCrunch

"We haven't made a definite decision about what to do in that case, but we would consider closing down the Spiders," he added.

The New York Times

The Association of British Insurers said: "It is good news that the company has made a definite decision on this.We have been urging it to do so".

The Guardian - Business

The panel's report suggests that rather than making a definite decision on behalf of both the retailer and consumer that the States should "let the market decide".

BBC

At the moment he has not made a definite decision but has admitted he regrets the Olympic furore of last year when a newspaper claimed he would prefer to play for Team GB in Brazil.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "make a definite decision", ensure the context clearly indicates that the decision-maker has considered all relevant information and is prepared to commit to a specific course of action.

Common error

Avoid using "make a definite decision" if the decision is still subject to change or further evaluation. Using it prematurely can create confusion and undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a definite decision" functions as a verbal phrase emphasizing the action of reaching a clear, resolute conclusion. Ludwig examples confirm its use in contexts requiring explicit commitment.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

30%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make a definite decision" is a commonly used phrase that signifies the act of making a clear and resolute choice. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability for various contexts, including news, science, and general writing. While alternatives like "reach a firm conclusion" exist, "make a definite decision" emphasizes the decisiveness and lack of ambiguity in the decision-making process. When using this phrase, ensure that the decision is indeed firm and not subject to change, to maintain clarity and credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reach a firm conclusion

Emphasizes the firmness and finality of the decision.

arrive at a definitive judgment

Highlights the judgmental aspect and its conclusiveness.

come to a resolute choice

Focuses on the determination and firmness behind the decision.

make a conclusive determination

Stresses the finality and decisiveness of the determination.

form a settled opinion

Implies a thoughtful and unchangeable decision.

reach a decisive verdict

Conveys a sense of finality and authority, similar to a legal judgment.

draw a definitive inference

Highlights a conclusion based on reasoning or evidence.

settle on a precise course of action

Focuses on clarity and exactness in the decision.

take a definitive stance

Implies a clear and unwavering position or opinion.

resolve on a fixed plan

Emphasizes the intent to adhere to a particular course of action.

FAQs

How can I use "make a definite decision" in a sentence?

You can use "make a definite decision" to indicate a clear and resolute choice. For example: "After careful consideration, the board decided to make a definite decision regarding the company's future strategy."

What are some alternatives to "make a definite decision"?

You can use alternatives like "reach a firm conclusion", "arrive at a definitive judgment", or "come to a resolute choice" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "make a definite decision"?

While the word "decision" implies a choice, "make a definite decision" emphasizes the clarity and resolution of that choice. It's useful when you want to highlight the firmness of the decision-making process.

What's the difference between "make a decision" and "make a definite decision"?

"Make a decision" simply means to choose, while "make a definite decision" implies a firm, clear, and unwavering choice. The latter emphasizes the resolution and lack of ambiguity in the decision.