Decided Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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decided

[dɪˈsaɪdɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

making a choice

To come to a resolution in the mind as a result of consideration.

Synonyms

choose, pick, select.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
decided

Use when someone has made a final choice after considering different options. It indicates a firm decision has been made.

  • She decided to move to New York after much thought
  • He decided not to participate in the competition
choose

Use when someone is in the process of selecting or has the ability to select from multiple options.

  • You can choose between the red dress and the blue one
  • They chose the Italian restaurant for dinner
select

Use in formal contexts or when emphasizing the care or criteria involved in making a choice. It often suggests a deliberate and considered decision.

  • The committee will select the best candidate for the job
  • Please select your preferences from the options provided
pick

Commonly used in informal situations as a synonym for 'choose'. It sometimes implies a more casual decision-making process.

  • Just pick any movie you like
  • She picked the lavender scent for her room

Examples of usage

  • I decided to take the job offer in New York.
  • After much deliberation, she decided to end her relationship.
Context #2 | Verb

determined

To make a final choice or judgment about.

Synonyms

determine, resolve, settle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
decided

Used when someone has made a firm decision about something.

  • He decided to go on a vacation.
  • They decided to buy a new house.
resolve

Used when someone makes a firm decision or solves a problem. Often carries a connotation of firmness and finality.

  • She resolved to eat healthier.
  • They resolved the conflict peacefully.
determine

Used to describe finding out something or coming to a firm decision.

  • They need to determine the cause of the problem.
  • We will determine the best course of action.
settle

Used when someone makes a decision after deliberation or when a dispute is resolved. Can also imply making a final decision after considering various options.

  • They settled on a new plan after many discussions.
  • The argument was settled amicably.

Examples of usage

  • The committee decided on a course of action.
  • She decided that it was time to move on.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research shows that making decisions can impact our happiness; decisive people often report feeling more satisfied.
  • The brain experiences different responses when contemplating choices versus making them, with clarity often leading to reduced stress.
  • Studies indicate that indecision can lead to increased anxiety, while feeling empowered to decide promotes confidence.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and literature, characters facing tough choices often reflect deeper themes, showing the weight of decisions.
  • The popular phrase 'You’ve got to make a choice!' highlights cultural narratives about responsibility and agency in decision-making.
  • Many songs explore themes of choosing love or a certain path, resonating with audiences who relate to making difficult choices.

Education

  • In learning environments, teaching decision-making skills is crucial; it helps students develop critical thinking and problem-solving.
  • Group projects often require collective decision-making, which teaches collaboration and the importance of diverse perspectives.
  • Students benefit from understanding decision-making frameworks, like pros and cons lists, to help them structure their choices.

Business

  • Effective decision-making is a key skill for leaders; it impacts team dynamics and project success.
  • Many organizations use data analysis to inform their strategic decisions, showcasing the modern blend of intuition and information.
  • Business theories often discuss decision-making models, like rational choice and bounded rationality, to analyze how decisions are made.

Origin of 'decided'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'decidere,' meaning 'to cut off,' which reflects the idea of cutting away options.
  • Middle English adopted the term around the 14th century, emphasizing its long-standing importance in decision-making.
  • Its root 'cidere' means 'to cut,' which is an interesting way of thinking about how making a choice involves cutting out other possibilities.

The word 'decide' comes from the Old French word 'decider', which originates from the Latin word 'decidere', meaning 'to cut off'. This reflects the idea of making a choice that cuts off other possibilities. The word has been used in English since the 14th century.


See also: decidability, decidable, decide, decider, deciding, decision, decisive, decisively, decisiveness, indecisive, undecided.

Word Frequency Rank

At #897 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.