Dictionary-enhanced synonyms
Synonyms for “Decide” — 4 Other Ways to Say It
To choose what you will do or think about something after thinking about it.
Meaning of Decide
To make a choice or reach a conclusion after thinking about options.
How to Pronounce Decide
IPA: /dɪˈsaɪd/ Stress: oO
Stress the second syllable: dih-SIDE. The 'ide' part rhymes with 'wide' and 'side'.
4 Synonyms for Decide — Words Similar to Decide
Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.
choose
/tʃuːz/To pick or select something that you want from several possibilities
Example: I choose to have tea instead of coffee this morning.
determine
/dɪˈtɜːrmɪn/To find out what something is, decide something firmly, or make something happen.
Example: The doctor will determine what is wrong with the patient.
resolve
/rɪˈzɒlv/Fix a problem or make a strong decision to do something.
Example: We need to resolve this conflict before it gets worse.
settle
/ˈsetəl/Get comfortable; make an agreement to end a dispute.
Example: She settled into her new home quickly.
Smart Synonyms for Decide — When to Use Each
choose
for selecting one option from multiple possibilities
determine
when making a decision after investigation or analysis
settle
when ending uncertainty or reaching final agreement
How to Use Decide and Its Synonyms in Sentences
- I decided to stay home instead of going to the party. A1
- The judge will decide the case after hearing all the evidence. A2
- We need to decide on a meeting time before Friday. A1
Common Word Choice Mistakes with Decide
Not natural: I will decide about it tomorrow.
Better: I will decide on it tomorrow or I will think about it tomorrow.
'Decide on' is more common and natural than 'decide about'. Prefer 'on' in modern English.
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Decide
What is another word for "decide"?
Common synonyms for "decide" include: choose, determine, resolve, settle.
What can I say instead of "decide"?
Try one of these alternatives: choose, determine, resolve, settle. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
Is "decide" formal or informal?
"decide" is generally used in neutral contexts.
When should I use "decide" instead of "choose"?
Use "decide" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "choose" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.