What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
preclusively
Example
The DNA evidence preclusively proved the defendant's guilt. [preclusively: adverb]
Example
The witness testimony was preclusive in determining the outcome of the trial. [preclusive: adjective]
decisively
Example
The team won the game decisively, with a score of 5-0. [decisively: adverb]
Example
The CEO made a decisive move to cut costs and improve profitability. [decisive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Decisively is more commonly used than preclusively in everyday language. Decisively is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while preclusively is less common and may be more likely to be used in legal or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between preclusively and decisively?
Preclusively is typically associated with a more formal and technical tone, while decisively can be employed in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be used in a wider range of situations.