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decisivo

de-see-SEE-boh/desiˈsiβo/

“decisivo” means “decisive” in Spanish (having the power to settle a dispute or determine an outcome).

decisive

Also: crucial, pivotal, conclusive
A soccer player kicking the ball into the goal during the final seconds of a match.

📝 In Action

El último gol fue decisivo para ganar el campeonato.

A2

The last goal was decisive for winning the championship.

Estamos en un momento decisivo de la negociación.

B1

We are at a crucial moment in the negotiation.

Su voto será decisivo en las próximas elecciones.

B2

His/her vote will be decisive in the next elections.

Word Connections

Synonyms

Antonyms

Common Collocations

  • momento decisivo – decisive moment
  • factor decisivo – decisive factor
  • prueba decisiva – conclusive/decisive proof

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "decisivo" in Spanish:

pivotal→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: decisivo

Question 1 of 3

Which of these phrases correctly describes a 'decisive battle'?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
decidir(to decide) — Verb
decisión(decision) — Noun
decidido(determined/decided) — Adjective
decididamente(decidedly) — Adverb
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼

From the Latin 'decisivus', which comes from 'decidere' (to decide). The root literally means 'to cut off', implying that making a decision 'cuts off' other possibilities.

First recorded: 15th century

Cognates (Related words)

English: decisiveFrench: décisifItalian: decisivo

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use 'decisivo' for a person?

Only if that person's actions or role are the 'deciding factor' in a situation (e.g., 'Él fue decisivo en el proyecto'). If you mean the person is brave or firm in their choices, use 'decidido'.

Does 'decisivo' always go after the noun?

In 95% of cases, yes. Placing it before the noun ('una decisiva victoria') is very formal and usually found in literature or high-level journalism.

What is the difference between 'determinante' and 'decisivo'?

They are almost interchangeable. 'Determinante' sounds slightly more technical or scientific, while 'decisivo' is more common in sports and general conversation.