verb

décider

decide

Prendre une position ou faire un choix après avoir réfléchi à différentes possibilités.

Definition & meaning

The verb décider in French has several related meanings:

To decide or make up one's mind: To make a choice or come to a conclusion after consideration. It often implies settling on a course of action.
To determine or settle: To resolve a situation or to be the deciding factor in an outcome (e.g., a goal that decides a match).
To induce or persuade (usually reflexive): When used as se décider, it means to finally make up one's mind to do something after hesitating.

Grammar & Word origin

Grammar:

décider is a regular verb of the second group (ending in -er).
It can be used transitively (followed by a direct object) or intransitively (often followed by de + infinitive).
The reflexive form se décider is frequently used to express the act of overcoming hesitation.

Word origin: The word originates from the Latin decidere, composed of de- (off/away) and caedere (to cut). Etymologically, it implies "cutting off" other options to reach a final conclusion.