결정을 내리다

You use this phrase when the stakes feel real. You can use it for big life changes. You can also use it for simple things if you want to sound dramatic. To use it, just attach the object marker 을 to 결정. Then add the verb 내리다. In casual speech, you might say 결정 내렸어. In a job interview, you would say 결정을 내렸습니다. It is a very flexible building block for your Korean.

Use this when a process of thinking has finished. Imagine you are at a cafe. You spent ten minutes looking at the menu. You finally look at the barista and say you've made your decision. Use it when choosing a major in college. Use it when deciding whether to go on a second date. It works perfectly in business meetings too. It signals that the talking is over and the action is starting. It’s the 'green light' phrase of the Korean language.

Don't use this for tiny, split-second reflexes. If you choose to step over a puddle, don't say you 'made a decision.' That sounds like you had a board meeting with your feet. Also, avoid it if you are just guessing. If you are picking a random number, use 고르다 (to pick). 결정을 내리다 requires a bit of mental weight. If it didn't take at least a few seconds of thought, it’s probably too heavy a phrase.

Korean culture often values careful deliberation and consensus. However, once a leader or an individual 'drops' a decision (내리다), it carries weight. Historically, this verb was used for royal edicts or official judgments. Today, it still carries that echo of authority. When you use this phrase, you sound like someone who takes their life seriously. It shows you aren't just drifting. You are the captain of your own ship.

If you want to sound more casual, you can use 결정하다. It’s the standard 'to decide.' If you want to sound like a tough negotiator, try 결론을 내리다 (to reach a conclusion). For something very personal, you might say 마음을 정하다 (to set one's heart). But if you want that perfect balance of clarity and strength, 결정을 내리다 is your best friend. It’s the gold standard for being decisive.