be decisive
/biː dɪˈsaɪsɪv/verb phrase★Intermediate
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
Antonyms
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
verbdecisive
firm, clear in decision-making
adjectiveEnglish Dictionary