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.

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 However, the deciding factor is the native environment that the plant has adapted to. —

Markis Hill, Kansas City Star, 31 Jan. 2025 In the comments section, Reddit users said that whichever choice the poster makes will impact her relationship with her mother, so that needs to be the deciding factor. —

Ashlyn Robinette, People.com, 31 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for deciding factor

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“Deciding factor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deciding%20factor. Accessed 22 Feb. 2025.

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