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firm decision — clear final choice

collocationB1IELTS 5+neutraloccasional

A firm decision is a choice that someone has made with confidence and is not likely to change.

Say it like a native

Textbook I have arrived at an unwavering resolution.

Native I've made a firm decision.

'Unwavering resolution' is formal; 'firm decision' is the natural phrase.

Pattern: make/take/reach a firm decision (about/on something)

In use

  • After thinking it over for days, she finally made a firm decision to move abroad.daily life
  • In my opinion, making a firm decision is important when choosing a university, because it helps you stay focused and avoid second-guessing yourself.IELTS speaking

Common mistake

✗ I made a firm decision of leaving.

✓ I made a firm decision to leave.

'Decision TO + verb'.

Common collocations

  • firm decision — make a, a, reach a, no

Don't confuse it

Unlike a 'temporary decision' or a 'tentative decision', a 'firm decision' means you are sure and will not change your mind.

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