To me, and based on dictionary definitions a **"determinative factor"** and a **"decisive factor"** mean exactly the same thing, while they imply a very "crucial factor" which can lead you to make a decision about something. Also, I think I can use the noun "determinant" instead of "a determinative factor": <br> **Determinant:** <br> > Something that controls or affects what happens in a particular situation: <br> - Soil and climate are the main **determinants** of how land is used. <br> **Determinative:** <br> > 1. able to or serving to settle or determine; deciding <br> 2. a factor, circumstance, etc. that settles or determines <br> - A **determinative factor** influences that are determinative of future behavior. **Decisive:** <br> > If a fact, action, or event is decisive, it makes it certain that there will be a particular result. "Strongly" affecting how a situation will progress or end. An action, event etc that is decisive has a big effect on the way that something develops; a "decisive factor"/effect/influence etc. - The economy is regarded as the "decisive factor" which will determine the outcome of the general election. I wonder if you could tell me more about these two terms.