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decide on

A2 neutral inseparable transitive

To make a choice or reach a final decision about something.

In plain English

To choose something after thinking about it.

What does "decide on" mean?

2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.

1 A2 neutral

To make a final choice between options after consideration.

"We finally decided on a date for the wedding — it's going to be in June."

inseparable
2 B1 formal

To officially determine or rule on something (in a formal or legal context).

"The committee will decide on the proposed changes at next week's meeting."

inseparable
Usage tip

Very common in everyday English. Often followed by a noun or gerund. Interchangeable with 'decide upon' in most contexts, though 'decide on' is far more frequent in modern speech.

Words that pair with "decide on"

Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.

name plan venue date option career

How to conjugate "decide on"

The five tense forms you'll use most often.

Base
decide on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
decides on
he/she/it
Past simple
decided on
yesterday
Past participle
decided on
have + pp
-ing form
deciding on
continuous

Hear "decide on" in the wild

Listen to native speakers using "decide on" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.

Other ways to say "decide on"

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Keep exploring

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