what was decided

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what was decided" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to ask or refer to a decision that has already been made. For example: "I'm curious about what was decided at the meeting regarding the new policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

She could not, however, recall what was decided.

The New York Times

"It's unfair to say that what was decided in 2006 will hold for ever more.

The Guardian

Cabinet will meet on Wednesday morning to discuss what was decided by the national security committee.

The Guardian

Exactly what was decided, they are still trying to find out.

The New Yorker

So you have to have a little more formalized approach, and be clear about what was decided.

The New York Times

"You can be sure that what was decided now will be maintained and will not go below what was agreed," he said.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

"We only know what is decided by the khap panchayat.

The New York Times

Both sides are vowing to go to court depending on what is decided.

The New York Times

Normally, the court follows the principle of stare decisis — "to stand by what is decided".

The New York Times - Books

Again the process of dissolving the union, if that is what is decided, would have started with acts of Parliament.

Independent

What is decided in the coming days and weeks will determine Greece's economic future.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "what was decided" to refer back to a previously discussed decision. This helps maintain coherence and emphasizes the importance of the outcome.

Common error

Avoid excessive passive voice constructions. While "what was decided" is grammatically correct, consider rephrasing for a more direct and active voice when appropriate. For example, instead of "the project plan reflects what was decided", try "the project plan reflects the decisions made".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what was decided" functions as a nominal relative clause. It acts as a noun phrase, referring to the content or outcome of a decision-making process. This is supported by Ludwig, which provides examples of its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

22%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

11%

Encyclopedias

6%

Social Media

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "what was decided" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to refer to a previous decision or agreement. As Ludwig's examples show, it is frequently used in news and media, science, and wiki contexts, with a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal writing. To enhance clarity, ensure the context indicates when and how the decision was made and consider alternative phrasing to avoid overuse of passive voice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the decision that was made

Rephrases to emphasize the decision-making process and resulting outcome.

the agreed-upon resolution

Highlights the consensus reached after a discussion or negotiation.

the outcome of the deliberation

Focuses on the result after careful consideration and discussion.

the established conclusion

Emphasizes the finality and acceptance of the decision.

the determined course of action

Highlights the plan or strategy chosen after evaluating options.

the resolution that was passed

Focuses on the formal approval or adoption of a decision.

the final judgment

Highlights the ultimate decision or verdict in a formal setting.

the mutually accepted agreement

Emphasizes the collaboration and consent involved in the decision.

the stipulated terms

Highlights specific conditions or provisions that have been formally decided.

the chosen option

Focuses on the selection of one alternative from a set of possibilities.

FAQs

How can I use "what was decided" in a sentence?

You can use "what was decided" to refer to a previous agreement or conclusion. For example, "The team will implement "what was decided" in the meeting last week".

What phrases are similar to "what was decided"?

Alternatives include "the decision that was made", "the agreed-upon resolution", or "the "outcome of the deliberation"", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "what was decided" or "what is decided"?

"What was decided" refers to a past decision, while "what is decided" refers to a current or future decision. Use the phrase that matches the "appropriate tense" of your sentence.

Can I use "what was decided" in formal writing?

Yes, "what was decided" is suitable for formal writing, especially when referring to official decisions or agreements. However, always ensure that your writing style remains clear and "concise language".