decide
Definitions
To make a choice or reach a conclusion after considering the options.
决定；做出抉择。
To settle or determine the outcome of something (a contest, an issue).
（比赛、问题）决出结果，起决定作用。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedde- (off, away) + caedere (to cut) = 'to cut off.' Faced with several options, you take a blade to them and sever all but one. That severing of alternatives is what it means to decide. The physical image of cutting survives in decisive (cutting cleanly and fast) and indecision (knife still raised, nothing cut).
Root cid still carries 44 more wordsExample Sentences
- 1.
We need to decide where to go on holiday before the prices rise.
- 2.
She decided to quit her job and start her own business.
- 3.
A single goal in the final minute decided the match.
Easily Confused
decide vs determine — Both mean to settle on something, but decide stresses choosing between options (decide which one), while determine stresses fixing a fact or cause (determine the cause of death, determine the value). You decide what to do; tests determine what is true.