German word

Vorentscheidung

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈfoːɐ̯ɛntˌʃaɪ̯dʊŋ/

Meaning

  • feminine nounprovisional decision

Example

Wir haben eine Vorentscheidung getroffen.

We have made a provisional decision.

Illustration for Vorentscheidung (provisional decision)

More examples

Die Verhandlung endete ohne endgültiges Urteil; es blieb bei einer Vorentscheidung.

The hearing ended without a final verdict; the provisional decision remained in place.

Core concept

An initial choice sets the direction for later judgment but can still be changed.

Common phrases

  • bei einer Vorentscheidung bleiben

    stick with the provisional decision

  • gegen die Vorentscheidung Einspruch erheben

    lodge an objection against the provisional decision

Similar words

Entscheidung: A definitive conclusion that establishes what must be done or who is responsible.
Beschluss: A decision officially passed by a group according to its procedures.
Zwischenentscheidung: An interim decision reached before the process has reached its final judgment.
Vorergebnis: A preliminary result or numerical value given before the final outcome.

Definition in German

Vorentscheidung ist eine früh getroffene Entscheidung, die als Grundlage für spätere endgültige Festlegungen dient, dabei aber noch revidierbar bleibt.

Word origin

Vorentscheidung is a transparent German compound formed from vor and Entscheidung, placing the decision earlier in a process.

Usage tips

  • Vorentscheidung refers to a stage in a decision process, so it does not by itself mean that the matter is legally or formally settled.

Other meanings

  • prior decisionnoun

Opposites

  • Endentscheidungfinal decisionnoun

Related words

  • Vorentscheidpreliminary decisionnoun
  • vorentscheidendecide in advanceverb

Word lists with this word