Deciding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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deciding
[dɪˈsaɪdɪŋ ]
Definition
making choices
Deciding is the act of making a choice or decision after considering various options. It involves weighing the pros and cons of different alternatives before coming to a conclusion.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| deciding |
This word is used when making a final choice after considering different options. It often implies a more thoughtful or significant process.
|
| choosing |
This is a general term for selecting something from multiple options. It doesn't imply a specific method or seriousness in the process.
|
| selecting |
This term often implies a more careful and deliberate process of choosing, sometimes for formal or important decisions.
|
| picking |
This word implies a more casual or informal selection process, often used in everyday, less consequential decisions.
|
Examples of usage
- I have been deciding between two job offers for weeks now.
- She is having a hard time deciding which movie to watch tonight.
- We need to decide on a date for the meeting soon.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- The process of deciding is linked to our emotions and past experiences, often influencing our choices.
- People can experience 'analysis paralysis', where too many options make decisions harder instead of easier.
- Research shows that more choices can lead to greater satisfaction when people feel they are making the best decision.
Cultural Context
- In many cultures, decisions about marriage, education, and career are often made collectively by families or communities.
- Some cultures emphasize 'collectivism' where group consensus is prioritized over individual decision-making, contrasting with more individualistic approaches.
Economics
- Economic theories often focus on decision-making processes regarding resources, pitting rational choice theory against behavioral economics.
- Deciding in economics involves weighing costs and benefits, a crucial part of understanding consumer behavior.
Literature
- Many classic narratives focus on the pivotal moment of decision-making, such as Hamlet's 'To be, or not to be' soliloquy, illustrating the weight of choosing.
- Characters in literature often embody internal conflicts that force them to make significant life decisions, reflecting human dilemmas.
Origin of 'deciding'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'decidere', which means 'to cut off' or 'to determine', highlighting the idea of cutting down options.
- It entered the English language in the late Middle Ages, used initially in legal contexts before expanding to general usage.
The word 'deciding' originates from the late Middle English period, from the Old French word 'decider' or the Latin word 'decidere', meaning 'to settle' or 'to determine'. The concept of decision-making has been essential throughout human history, influencing various aspects of life and society.
See also: decidability, decidable, decide, decided, decider, decision, decisive, decisively, decisiveness, indecisive, undecided.