Guide 24 / 200 6 swaps Formal register
Professional words for “decide”
Six verbs that attach rigor to a decision.
i · When it mattersTwo lines, no filler
"Decide" is neutral. Briefs and reports want verbs that convey the process — determined, resolved, opted, elected.
ii · The swaps6 ways
- 01Determine formal
settle after evaluation
Determined the vendor after a three-way comparison.
- 02Resolve formal
settle with firmness
The board resolved to delay the raise.
- 03Conclude formal
end deliberation with a verdict
The panel concluded that the policy was sound.
- 04Opt neutral
choose among alternatives
We opted for the phased rollout.
- 05Elect formal
make a deliberate choice
Elected to self-host the service.
- 06Settle on neutral
arrive at after consideration
Settled on a monthly cadence.