decide
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /dɪˈsaɪd/
KK: /dɪˈsaɪd/
intransitive verb
Definition
To make a choice or come to a conclusion about something after considering options.
Example
After much thought, I decided to take the job offer.
Tense Forms
Past: decided
Past Participle: decided
Conversation
Have you had a chance to decide on the movie for tonight?
Not yet! There are so many options to choose from.
I know, it can be tough to decide sometimes.
Exactly! Maybe we should just flip a coin.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
determine
conclude
resolve
Antonyms
hesitate
waver
vacillate
transitive verb
Definition
To make a choice or come to a conclusion about something after considering the options.
Example
I need to decide which movie to watch tonight.
Tense Forms
Past: decided
Past Participle: decided
Conversation
Have you managed to decide on a restaurant for dinner?
Not yet! There are just so many options to choose from.
I know, but we really need to decide soon before it gets too late.
Root Explanation
Decide is formed from "de-" (meaning down or from) and "caedere" (meaning to cut). The word originally conveys the idea of cutting off alternatives, leading to a conclusion or choice.
Memory Tip
Think of 'cutting off' options ('caedere') to make a choice ('de-') — that's how you remember that to decide means to make a choice.
Visually Confused Words
deicide
undecide
redecide
excide
deride
decode
deckie
decade