Translation guide
How to express 'make a decision' naturally in Japanese, from formal to casual contexts.
To decide something, to make a choice after consideration.
The most common and versatile verb for 'to decide'. Used in everyday conversation.
I decided which university to go to.
I haven't decided yet.
A more formal verb, often used in business or official contexts.
We decided on a new policy at the meeting.
Literally 'to hand down a decision', implying a weighty or final decision. Used in serious contexts.
The president made a difficult decision.
To select one thing from several possibilities.
Means 'to choose' or 'to select'. Often used when the decision involves picking something.
To resolve to do something after hesitation.
Expresses determination or resolve. Often used for personal decisions.
To come to a decision after discussion or thought.
Means 'to reach a conclusion'. Common in meetings and debates.
決める is the everyday verb for 'decide'. 決定する is formal and often used for official decisions. 決心する emphasizes personal resolve or determination.
Let's decide what to have for dinner tonight.
Please choose what you like from the menu.
I can't decide which one to choose.
Also used for choosing, especially when the choice is final.
I decided on Okinawa for the trip.
He made up his mind to study abroad.
I finally made up my mind.
Literally 'to settle one's stomach', meaning to resolve oneself, often for something difficult.
I made up my mind and went to talk to my boss.
As a result of the discussion, we reached a conclusion.
To settle a matter or bring something to a conclusion, often after conflict.
We must settle this issue quickly.
委員会が新しい規則を決定した。
The committee decided on new rules.
She made up her mind to quit smoking.
Learners sometimes use 決定する for all decisions, but it sounds stiff in casual conversation. Stick with 決める for everyday situations.