Do you "take" or "make" a decision . . .

[stockhausen]

. . . and why

I have heard both forms used recently (by intelligent speakers) and I can't say that I know which is correct.

 

[stockhausen]

Some years ago during a lecture on the decision making process, the lecturer went to great lengths to explain that both were valid and what the difference was; I didn't pay enough attention and I can't remember the arguments.

As I recall, the lecture was titled "Why can't managers make decisions?" which probably answers my question

I did Google this puzzle and found the following:

In a recent podcast, I talked about some differences between British and American English, and I read a listener comment from an American who lived abroad for several years and noticed that British friends said “take a decision” instead of “make a decision,” but then I got a lot of feedback from British people who said they never say or hear “take a decision.” (LINK)

As it happens, I believe that there are sometimes different usages depending on whether one is talking about the future, the present or the past (took/made).

Incidentally, I "choose" an option.

 

[stockhausen]

. . . I personally say "I've decided that" or "The decision is", over the thread options.

Have you never felt in a meeting like shouting

"For pity's sake, will one of you please MAKE a ******* decision and let the rest of us get on with some useful, remunerative work!"

. . . or, perhaps . . .​

"For pity's sake, will one of you please TAKE a ******* decision and let the rest of us get on with some useful, remunerative work!"

I know that I have

often

the former (option / choice) as it happens ​