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  1. Home /
  2. Dictionaries /
  3. English Dictionary /
  4. be decisive

be decisive

/biː dɪˈsaɪsɪv/
make clear, firm decisions

A good leader must be decisive during a crisis.

This means they should make quick, confident decisions when facing urgent problems.


general

To make clear, firm decisions without hesitation

She was praised for being decisive when the team needed direction.

Her ability to make quick, confident decisions helped guide the team.

Often used to describe leadership qualities or situations requiring quick judgment.

Collocations

be decisive inmake firm decisions about a specific matterbe decisive aboutmake a clear choice regarding something

Synonyms

be resolutebe firmbe decisive-minded

Antonyms

be indecisivebe hesitantbe uncertain

Related Phrases

make a decisive movephrase
take a clear, impactful action
decisive victoryphrase
a clear, overwhelming win

Pro Tip

Positive vs. Negative Connotations

Being decisive can be positive (confident) or negative (rushing decisions). Context matters.

Gold Rule

Leadership Context

In leadership, being decisive is often seen as a strength, but balance with careful consideration.

Word Origin

From Latin 'decidere' (to cut off, decide) + 'be' (to exist in a state).

Usage Notes

Often used to describe leadership or problem-solving skills. Can be positive (confident) or negative (rushing decisions).

Word Breakdown

be
to exist in a state
verb
+
decisive
firm, clear in decision-making
adjective
English Dictionary
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