Usage of 決める
The verb 決める (きめる) means "to decide" or "to make a decision" and is a transitive verb, so it always takes a direct object. It is commonly used in everyday conversation when choosing or determining something, such as plans, rules, or options.
Common contexts
You will often hear 決める used when talking about deciding schedules, places, or choices. For example, deciding on a meeting place or choosing a job. It implies a conscious choice made by the speaker or subject.
Collocations and patterns
- 決める + noun (e.g., 日程を決める): to decide a schedule
- 〜を決める (direct object particle): marks what is being decided
- 決めましょう (volitional form): used to suggest making a decision together
Register and nuance
決める is neutral and polite enough for daily conversation but not overly formal. For very formal contexts, other expressions like 決定する might be used.
Common learner mistake
Avoid confusing 決める with 決まる (きまる), which is the intransitive counterpart meaning "to be decided." Remember 決める requires a direct object and an agent who makes the decision.