Translation guide
The English word 'decision' is most commonly expressed in Japanese through the verb 決める (to decide) or the noun 決定 (decision). The best choice depends on whether you are talking about making a personal choice, a formal resolution, or a judgment.
Expressing that you have chosen something or made up your mind, often in everyday situations.
The most common verb for 'to decide'. Used for personal decisions, choices, and resolutions. Can be used in both casual and formal contexts.
I decided which university to go to.
Let's decide to eat out tonight.
Implies a firm resolution or determination, often after some deliberation. Slightly more emphatic than 決める.
He made up his mind to study abroad.
A grammar pattern meaning 'decide to do ~'. Attach to the dictionary form of a verb. Very natural for expressing personal decisions.
I decided to start jogging from tomorrow.
I decided to tell him the truth.
Often combined with 決める for emphasis: ～ことに決める. Still very common.
I decided to study every day.
Referring to a decision made by an organization, authority, or in a formal setting.
The standard noun for a formal decision, ruling, or resolution. Often used in business, legal, and official contexts.
We will comply with the court's decision.
A decisive decision, often involving courage or a significant choice. Implies finality and resolve.
Specifically a judicial decision, verdict, or sentence. Used only in legal contexts.
Focusing on the process or moment of choosing, rather than the outcome.
When 'decision' means a judgment or evaluation, often in analytical or critical contexts.
決める is the everyday verb for personal decisions. 決定する is formal and often used for official decisions. 決断する implies a bold, resolute decision, often after hesitation.
Decide tonight's menu.
The committee decided the policy.
He made the decision to retire.
English often uses 'make a decision', but in Japanese it's more natural to use the verb 決める or the noun 決定 with する. Saying 決定を作る is incorrect.
An important decision was made at the meeting.
社長は難しい決断を下した。
The president made a difficult decision.
裁判官は無罪の判決を言い渡した。
The judge handed down a verdict of not guilty.
The price was the deciding factor.
Please make a decision based on the situation.
審判の判定に選手が抗議した。
The player protested the referee's decision.