A Decision Synonym Guide — Definition, Antonyms, and Examples

Deciding on the right word to replace the term ‘decision’ can be a challenge in itself. The frequent use of the same word ‘decision’ can make any piece of writing dull and unappealing to the readers.

Therefore, we must refrain from repeating the same word and use a similar word that conveys the meaning without making writing monotonous.

This decision synonym guide will help you learn some suitable synonyms and antonyms of the term with example sentences.

The Definition of Decision

‘Decision’ originates from the Latin decidere, meaning “determine.” It refers to a choice or opinion made after careful consideration. ‘Decision; also denotes the ability to quickly act or make choices with confidence. Based on the English dictionary, the term ‘decision’ functions as a noun.

Example Sentence:

• He has made his decision to study law.
• I am old enough to make my own decisions.
• Have you reached a decision yet?
• Please let me know your final decision.
• We need someone who can act with decision under pressure.

Decision Synonym — Exploring Words with Similar Meanings

Synonyms for decision include resolution, settlement, commitment, resolve, conclusion, and choice. Other words with similar meanings are option, selection, ruling, verdict, and recommendation.

Resolution

It is the noun form of the verb ‘resolve,’ which originates from the Latin resolvere, meaning “to loosen, undo, settle.” It refers to a strong promise or firm determination to do or not do something. The term also denotes finding the solution to a specific problem or conflict.

• He made a resolution to quit smoking.
• We need to come to a resolution regarding the conflict.

Judgment

It stems from the Old French jugement and juger, meaning “to judge.” The term refers to the act of forming an opinion or making a final decision after careful thought or reasoning. It denotes the ability to evaluate all possible factors and come to a reasonable conclusion.

• It’s better to evaluate the evidence before making a judgment.
• We need to make a judgment about the proposed policies.

Conclusion

‘Conclusion‘ originates from the Latin concludere, where con- means “completely,” and cludere means “to shut.” It refers to the final thought or decision reached after much thought and reasoning.

• What was the conclusion of the court case?
• I don’t think the conclusion was based on proper evidence.

Settlement

‘Settlement’ comes from the Old English term setlan, meaning “cause to sit, place, put.” The word refers to an official agreement or decision made to resolve an argument or conflict.

• Both the parties are discussing the case to reach a settlement.
• She managed to get the house in the divorce settlement.

Agreement

‘Agreement’ comes from the Old French term agreer, meaning “make agreeable to.” It refers to a legally binding contract between people to decide the course of action.

• I can start working after signing the contractual agreement.
• The two parties will sit for a trade agreement today.

Decision Antonyms — Exploring Words with Opposite Meanings

Antonyms for decision include beginning, disagreemnt, source, deferment, indecision, and refusal.

Indecision

‘Indecision’ refers to the inability or difficulty of a person to make a decision quickly. When you find it difficult to make up your mind between two possible choices, you are indecisive.

• Her indecision over which ice cream flavor to choose has been going on forever.
• I must overcome my indecision over where to go on vacation this summer break.

Disagreement

‘Disagreement’ refers to an argument between people caused by differences in opinions or ideas about something. It also denotes the state of being different from something else.

• We need to resolve the disagreements for the betterment of the company.
• There are some disagreements on the project details.

Dissension

‘Dissension’ refers to disagreements or arguments among a group of people over something important. The term ‘dissension’ means a great difference between opinions and sentiments between parties.

• The incident caused bitter dissension between the coworkers.
• There was some serious dissension going on in our department.

Wavering

‘Wavering’ refers to the act of switching between two options or opinions because of uncertainty. You’re wavering when you can’t decide between two courses of action.

• The board is wavering between the top two candidates for the position.
• Why are you wavering from your intentions?

Hesitation

‘Hesitation’ means to briefly pause or stop before doing something because of doubt or uncertainty. When someone is unsure whether or not to proceed with something, they hesitate.

• Her hesitation with the offer was visible on her face.
• You can answer without hesitation.

To Wrap Up

In this decision synonym guide, we have outlined some commonly used similar and opposite terms for ‘decision’ in different contexts. And if you encounter other words apart from those mentioned in this post, always look them up in a Thesaurus. It will enhance your vocabulary knowledge and improve your writing quality to engage the readers.