deciding factor
noun
1
: something that causes someone to make a particular decision
The deciding factor was cost.
His lack of experience was the deciding factor in my decision not to hire him.
2
: something that causes something to end a particular way
His home run was the deciding factor in the game.
Examples of deciding factor in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
From a venture investor’s perspective, the team is often the deciding factor when choosing whether to fund a startup.
—
Elena Volotovskaya, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2025
When going to college that is a big deciding factor on whether most of us attend or not.
—Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 29 Jan. 2025
Alfie getting a scholarship at Orient was the deciding factor but the switch wasn’t without its complications.
—Tim Spiers, The Athletic, 6 Feb. 2025
The 49ers last met Detroit in the NFC Championship as the heavy favorites, but this contest isn't a deciding factor for which team will reach the Super Bowl.
—David Faris, Newsweek, 28 Dec. 2024
See All Example Sentences for deciding factor
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Elena Volotovskaya, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2025
When going to college that is a big deciding factor on whether most of us attend or not.
—Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 29 Jan. 2025
Alfie getting a scholarship at Orient was the deciding factor but the switch wasn’t without its complications.
—Tim Spiers, The Athletic, 6 Feb. 2025
The 49ers last met Detroit in the NFC Championship as the heavy favorites, but this contest isn't a deciding factor for which team will reach the Super Bowl.
—David Faris, Newsweek, 28 Dec. 2024
See All Example Sentences for deciding factor
Cite this Entry
“Deciding factor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deciding%20factor. Accessed 13 Mar. 2025.
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