Synonyms and Related Words for Decide
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decide
Decide (verb) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology
IPA:
What does decide mean?
To make a choice or reach a conclusion after considering different options, information, or factors.
"She couldn't decide between the two options presented to her."
Detailed Meaning of Decide
When one decides, they come to a firm determination or resolution about a particular matter. It involves weighing the pros and cons, evaluating alternatives, and ultimately selecting one course of action or making a definitive judgment. Decision-making can occur in various aspects of life, such as personal choices, professional matters, or even in broader contexts like policy-making. 'Decide' implies a deliberate and intentional process of considering available information, preferences, values, and circumstances to arrive at a definitive choice or course of action. It signifies the ability to make a conscious decision based on reason, judgment, or personal preference.
Example Sentences for Decide
1. I decide to start my day with a morning run.
2. They decide to take a different route to avoid traffic.
3. The council will decide on the new policy next week.
4. She cannot decide between the two dresses.
5. Please decide quickly; we don’t have much time.
6. Before you decide to quit, consider all your options.
Origin and Etymology of Decide
The verb 'decide' has its origins in the Latin word 'decidere,' which is a compound of 'de,' meaning 'off' or 'away,' and 'caedere,' signifying 'to cut' or 'to strike.' In its early Latin usage, 'decidere' was often associated with making choices or settling disputes by figuratively 'cutting off' or 'cutting through' various options or arguments to reach a resolution. Over time, this notion of cutting through alternatives to make a definitive choice evolved into the modern English meaning of 'decide,' which involves making a determination or reaching a conclusion after considering different options, information, or factors. Thus, the etymology of 'decide' carries with it the idea of making a clear and definitive choice after carefully evaluating various possibilities.
Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding
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More Usage Examples of Decide
1. Let's decide on a place to meet for lunch.
2. He needs to decide if he wants to take the job offer.
3. They decide to donate to a charity every month.
4. I decide to learn a new language this year.
5. The teacher will decide the topic of the next project.
6. We should decide what to bring to the potluck.
7. If you don't decide soon, the tickets will be sold out.
8. The jury will decide the verdict after deliberations.
9. The kids decide to build a treehouse in the backyard.
10. She couldn’t decide which book to read next.
11. The manager will decide who gets the promotion.
12. He can’t decide whether to have tea or coffee.
13. The community will decide on the new playground's design.
14. The weather will decide if the game is postponed or not.
Practice decide: Flashcards, Spelling & Quizzes
Study with flashcards, practice spelling, then take a quiz to check your understanding:
Options and Determinations
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Decision and Discretion
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Judgement and Decision-Making
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