What are the definitions of “decide on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Choose, select.
Trevor spent a long time looking at flats before he bought one, but eventually DECIDED ON one near his work.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “decide on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb decide on is to choose or select something after considering different options. For example, it can mean choosing a place to eat, selecting a movie to watch, or picking a gift for someone.
What are the different verb forms of “decide on”?
| Root Verb | decide on |
| Third Person Singular Present | decides on |
| Present Participle | deciding on |
| Simple Past | decided on |
| Past Participle | decided on |
Example
After looking at many options, they finally decided on a vacation destination.
Example
She decides on a new book to read every month.
Example
They are deciding on which color to paint the living room.
Example
Last week, he decided on a new car to buy.
Example
The committee has decided on the theme for this year's event.
What kind of phrasal verb is “decide on”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“decide on” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She decided on a new dress for the party.
Example
They decided on a restaurant for dinner.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“decide on” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She decided on a new dress for the party.
Example
They decided on a restaurant for dinner.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “decide on”?
Good things to know
Does “decide on” have an informal or formal tone?
Decide on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
