What is decision? Pronunciation and usage in English

decision means . Learn how to pronounce and use decision through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of decision

decisionnoun

/dɪˈsɪʒn/
Definition & pronunciation of decision

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "decision" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Core Sound:

  • "De-": This part sounds like "dee" - like in "deep" or "definite."
  • "cision": This is the trickiest part. It's pronounced like "sigh-shun" (rhymes with "button"). Essentially, it's a soft "s" sound followed by "shun."

2. Putting it Together:

So, putting it all together, it sounds like: "dee-sih-shun"

Here's a more detailed breakdown of each syllable:

  • "De-": /di/ (short “i” sound)
  • "ci-": /si/ (like "see")
  • "-sion": /shun/ (like "sun" but with a "sh" sound at the beginning.)

Tips for Pronunciation:

  • Don't overemphasize the "c": It's not a hard "c" sound like in "cat." It's a softer, “s” sound.
  • The "shun" is key: Really focus on that "sh" sound followed by "un."
  • Listen to examples: The absolute best way to learn is to hear it pronounced by native speakers. Here are some resources:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
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Usage and examples with the word decision in English

Let's break down how to use the word "decision" in English. It's a really versatile word!

1. Basic Definition:

  • Decision: A choice between two or more alternatives. It's essentially a resolution to a problem or a choice you make.

2. Parts of Speech & How to Use It:

  • Noun: This is the most common use.

    • Example: "She made a difficult decision about her career." (Referring to the act of choosing)
    • Example: "The company's decision to close the factory shocked the community." (Referring to the outcome of a choice)
    • Example: "He needs to make a prompt decision." (Referring to the process of choosing)

  • Verb (less common): "To decide" means to make a decision.

    • Example: "I decided to go for a walk." (Meaning: I made the choice to go for a walk.)
    • Example: "They decided against expanding the project." (Meaning: They chose not to expand the project.)

3. Phrases & Expressions Using "Decision":

  • Make a decision: (Most common) "Let's make a decision about what to eat."
  • Reach a decision: "After much discussion, the committee reached a decision."
  • Decision-making: The process of making decisions. "Good decision-making skills are crucial for leadership."
  • A difficult decision: Indicates a choice that is hard to make. “Choosing between two job offers was a difficult decision.”
  • A firm decision: A decision that is definite and unwavering. “She made a firm decision to leave the company.”
  • A timely decision: A decision made at the right moment. “A timely decision saved the company from bankruptcy.”
  • Decision fatigue: A state of mental exhaustion that occurs when you have to make too many decisions. "After a long day of meetings, I felt serious decision fatigue.”

4. Example Sentences (Variety):

  • “The judge’s decision was controversial.”
  • “I need to make a decision about whether to accept the job offer.”
  • “The government’s decision to raise taxes has angered many citizens.”
  • “He used logic and reason to arrive at his decision.”
  • “She struggled to decide which dress to wear.”
  • “It’s important to be confident in your decision, even if others disagree.”

5. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

  • Choice
  • Selection
  • Resolution
  • Judgment
  • Determination

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to write or say? (e.g., a letter, an essay, a conversation)
  • Can you provide a specific sentence where you're using the word "decision," and you'd like help with it?

Synonyms for the word decision

Idioms of the word decision

reserve (your) decision/judgement
to not decide or make a judgement about something until a later time
  • I'd prefer to reserve judgement until I know all the facts.
  • Three judges have decided to reserve their decision until a later date.

Practice with vocabulary decision

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

Complete the following sentences with the most appropriate word.

  1. After extensive market analysis, the management team reached a difficult ________ regarding the new product launch.
  2. The project's success hinges on a multitude of ________, not just the initial budget allocation.
  3. The board's unanimous ________ to invest in renewable energy sources was widely praised.
  4. Employees are encouraged to provide constructive feedback, as their input can significantly ________ company policies.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

Select the best word(s) to complete each sentence. There may be more than one correct answer.

  1. The CEO's final ________ on the acquisition proposal is expected by the end of the week. A. policy B. decision C. discretion D. verdict

  2. Before proceeding, it's essential to conduct a thorough ________ of all available options. A. assessment B. conclusion C. plan D. judgment

  3. The committee's ________ to postpone the vote was met with mixed reactions from stakeholders. A. determination B. resolution C. directive D. choice

  4. Employees have the ________ to choose their preferred benefits package during the enrollment period. A. option B. discretion C. mandate D. opportunity

  5. Effective leadership requires the ability to make timely and well-informed ________ under pressure. A. decisions B. outcomes C. resolutions D. considerations

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

Rewrite the following sentences using the word in parentheses, or a suitable replacement if "decision" is excluded. Do not change the original meaning.

  1. The government will announce its choice about the new healthcare reform next month. (use "decision")
  2. It's crucial for the team to quickly resolve the current technical issues. (use "decision")
  3. The jury's final word on the complex legal case was delivered after three days of deliberation. (do not use "decision")

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. After extensive market analysis, the management team reached a difficult decision regarding the new product launch.
  2. The project's success hinges on a multitude of factors, not just the initial budget allocation.
  3. The board's unanimous decision to invest in renewable energy sources was widely praised.
  4. Employees are encouraged to provide constructive feedback, as their input can significantly influence company policies.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The CEO's final B. decision, D. verdict on the acquisition proposal is expected by the end of the week.
  2. Before proceeding, it's essential to conduct a thorough A. assessment of all available options.
  3. The committee's A. determination, B. resolution, D. choice to postpone the vote was met with mixed reactions from stakeholders.
  4. Employees have the A. option, D. opportunity to choose their preferred benefits package during the enrollment period.
  5. Effective leadership requires the ability to make timely and well-informed A. decisions, C. resolutions under pressure.

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The government will announce its decision about the new healthcare reform next month.
  2. A quick decision by the team is crucial to resolve the current technical issues.
  3. The jury's final verdict on the complex legal case was delivered after three days of deliberation.

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