make a definitive decision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make a definitive decision" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to emphasize the importance of reaching a clear and final conclusion on a matter. Example: "After much deliberation, we need to make a definitive decision regarding the project's direction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Group chairman Ken Scott, of Sunderland City Council, said: "It is too soon at this stage to make a definitive decision regarding the status of the match.

The Guardian - Sport

"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

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

The colleges and universities (and many students) have a different take: such programs reward those applicants and institutions that are willing to make a definitive decision early in the admissions process.

The New York Times

Mashaei, whose name has been touted among political activists as a possible 2013 candidate, has not ruled out the possibility of running for president, recently telling reporters he would make a definitive decision six months from the election.

The Guardian

Because I have some health problems, because I've gone two years without a break, and I have two young children, I just thought that this was not the time to make a definitive decision one way or another.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

A few weeks later, after several other meetings and presentations of spinoff ideas concluded, Williams made a definitive decision to move forward with Glass and Dorsey's status concept.

The New York Times - Magazine

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

Eddie Jones knows his team for next week's first Test against Australia in Brisbane, but wants to check on the Saracens and Exeter players who took part in the Premiership final last week before making a definitive decision.

The Guardian - Sport

Gasol, who said he hasn't made a definitive decision, said he wants to keep himself informed of the growing crisis.

Huffington Post

Our country, our homeland, our society has to think and make a definitive, strategic decision.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make a definitive decision" when you want to emphasize the importance of reaching a clear and final conclusion on a matter. This phrase is best suited for scenarios where clarity and certainty are essential.

Common error

Don't use "make a definitive decision" if the situation requires flexibility or further information. Prematurely declaring a decision as definitive can hinder adaptation to new developments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a definitive decision" functions as a verb phrase indicating the act of reaching a clear and final conclusion. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English. The examples show it being used in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "make a definitive decision" is a grammatically sound and useful expression for conveying that a clear, final, and often impactful choice has been made. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While not extremely common, it appears regularly in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the decision truly represents a firm resolution to avoid misrepresenting the situation. Consider alternatives like ""reach a conclusive decision"" or ""arrive at a final decision"" if the context requires slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reach a conclusive decision

Emphasizes the act of arriving at a final, indisputable judgment.

arrive at a final decision

Highlights the completion of the decision-making process.

come to a firm conclusion

Focuses on the strength and certainty of the decision.

make a final determination

Similar to a 'final decision' but often used in more formal or official settings.

settle on a resolution

Emphasizes resolving a problem or dispute through a decision.

take a decisive step

Highlights the action taken following the decision.

determine a course of action

Focuses on the direction or plan established by the decision.

resolve to take action

Stresses the commitment to act based on the decision.

draw a firm line

Implies setting a clear boundary or limit through a decision.

render a final verdict

Used primarily in legal contexts, referring to a definitive judgment.

FAQs

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

You can use "make a definitive decision" to indicate that a clear and final choice has been reached. For example, "After careful consideration, the board had to "make a definitive decision" regarding the company's future strategy".

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

Alternatives include "reach a conclusive decision", "arrive at a final decision", or "come to a firm conclusion". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Which is more appropriate: "make a definitive decision" or "make a decision"?

"Make a decision" is a general phrase, whereas ""make a definitive decision"" implies that the decision is final, clear, and not subject to change. Use the latter when emphasizing the finality of the choice.

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

While similar, "make a final decision" simply indicates the end of the decision-making process. "Make a definitive decision" emphasizes that the decision is not only final but also clear, well-defined, and unlikely to be revisited.