decisive

[dih-sahy-siv] /dɪˈsaɪ sɪv/

adjective

having the power or quality of deciding; putting an end to controversy; crucial or most important:

Your argument was the decisive one.

characterized by or displaying no or little hesitation; resolute; determined:

The general was known for his decisive manner.

indisputable; definite:

a decisive defeat.

unsurpassable; commanding:

a decisive lead in the voting.

Origin

1605-15; < Medieval Latin dēcīsīvus, equivalent to Latin dēcīs(us) (see decision) + -īvus -ive

Related forms

decisively, adverb

decisiveness, noun

nondecisive, adjective

nondecisively, adverb

nondecisiveness, noun

predecisive, adjective

predecisively, adverb

Synonyms

1. conclusive, final. 2. firm.

Examples from the web for decisive

But permanent relocation is a more decisive process.
The achievements of the deceivers were invaluable if not always decisive.
The electoral defeat was decisive.
Kirk was thoughtful and sympathetic but also decisive and combative.
We urgently need decisive leadership.
The timing of the goals was decisive.
In addition to contributing decisively to the achievements of the army, its use could have saved many lives and much equipment.
The results are clear-cut and decisive, the majorities are significantly high.
During the demo, every question was answered correctly—the decisive factor came down to timing.
The Internet is the decisive step in eradicating borders for both ideas and commerce.

British Dictionary definitions for decisive

/dɪˈsaɪsɪv/

adjective

influential; conclusive: a decisive argument

characterized by the ability to make decisions, esp quickly; resolute

Derived Forms

decisively, adverb
decisiveness, noun

Word Origin and History for decisive

adj.

1610s, from Medieval Latin decisivus, from Latin decis-, past participle stem of decidere (see decide). Related: Decisively; decisiveness.