decisive / authoritative
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decisive
Being decisive, determining, or guiding for something. Something that is considered a norm, standard, or the most important factor. This is the Swiss spelling of 'maßgebend' (decisive).
Für die Entscheidung des Gerichts war die Aussage des Zeugen massgebend.
The witness's statement was decisive for the court's decision.
authoritative
Being leading or highly influential in a particular field. Describes a person, institution, or work with great authority. This is the Swiss spelling of 'maßgebend' (authoritative).
Sie ist eine der massgebenden Forscherinnen auf dem Gebiet der Genetik.
She is one of the authoritative researchers in the field of genetics.
The word is made up of 'Mass' (in the sense of standard or norm) and 'gebend' (giving). So it describes something that 'gives' the standard or direction.
Seine Forschungen sind massgebend für die gesamte Branche.
His research is authoritative for the entire industry.
The spelling 'massgebend' with 'ss' is common in Switzerland. In Germany and Austria, the word is written 'maßgebend' with 'ß'.
Für den Vertrag sind die Schweizer Gesetze massgebend.
Swiss laws are decisive for the contract.
'Massgebend' is very often used with the preposition 'für' (for) and the accusative. It expresses what something is decisive or determining for.
Ihre Meinung war massgebend für unsere Planung.
Her opinion was decisive for our planning.
When referring to influential people or works, 'massgebend' is often combined with nouns such as 'Persönlichkeit' (personality), 'Figur' (figure), 'Werk' (work), or 'Stimme' (voice).
Er gilt als eine massgebende Figur in der modernen Architektur.
He is considered an authoritative figure in modern architecture.
decisive / crucial
Entscheidend refers to a factor that determines the outcome of something. Massgebend can also mean a determining factor, but it can additionally refer to a norm or standard that one follows. Entscheid end often fits a specific outcome, while massgebend fits the applicable basis or standard.
Für die Beurteilung des Antrags waren die geltenden Richtlinien massgebend.
The applicable guidelines were authoritative in assessing the application.
Für die Annahme des Antrags war die letzte Stimme entscheidend.
The final vote was decisive for the application to be approved.
