deciding factor

noun

: 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.

: 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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

But could the gender gap be the deciding factor in this year's razor-thin race between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump? —

Alexandra Hutzler, ABC News, 4 Nov. 2024 Maneuverability The ability to move around your yard with the leaf blower can be a deciding factor when choosing the best model. —

Sandi Schwartz, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Nov. 2024 The crucial voting bloc could be a deciding factor in this year’s election. —

Cheyanne M. Daniels, The Hill, 30 Oct. 2024 Native American voter turnout, which played a crucial role in Tester’s previous victories, could be a deciding factor. —

USA TODAY, 29 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for deciding factor

Cite this Entry

Style

“Deciding factor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deciding%20factor. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Copy Citation