Unwise decision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Unwise decision" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a choice or action that is not prudent or sensible. Example: "Choosing to invest all his savings in a single stock was an unwise decision that he later regretted."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But, unfortunately, it was an unwise decision.

The New York Times - Sports

No, it wasn't an unwise decision.

The New York Times - Sports

This proves to be a spectacularly unwise decision.

The New York Times

"In those precise circumstances it seems an unwise decision".

The Guardian

"This was an unwise decision," said Abdulatif Kablan, an airline pilot.

The New York Times

A patient's determination to make an unwise decision does not justify a doctor's deceit.

The New York Times - Magazine

The troupe made an artistically unwise decision in opening its two-week season with "Swan Lake".

The New York Times - Arts

Orde told the BBC: "In those precise circumstances it seems an unwise decision".

The Guardian

He said at the chapel service that most people viewed interracial marriage as an unwise decision.

The New York Times

Tikolo's decision to field looked an unwise decision at first, as Canada opener Geoff Barnett enjoyed a free-scoring start.

The Guardian - Sport

"It is an unwise decision and will reduce the Conservatives' influence in the European parliament," he said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "unwise decision", consider specifying the reasons why the decision was unwise to provide more context and clarity for the reader. For example, instead of simply stating "It was an unwise decision", elaborate by saying "It was an unwise decision because it exposed the company to unnecessary financial risk."

Common error

While "unwise decision" is generally acceptable, in highly formal or academic writing, consider using more precise or nuanced alternatives like "imprudent action" or "ill-advised choice" to convey a more sophisticated understanding of the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unwise decision" functions as a noun phrase, where 'unwise' acts as a descriptive adjective modifying the noun 'decision'. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase follows standard grammar rules and is considered correct. The examples show it describing various contexts, from personal choices to political strategies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unwise decision" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase to describe a choice or action that lacks good judgment. As Ludwig AI states, its frequent presence in news and media, science, and formal business contexts reflects its widespread applicability. While alternatives like "poor judgment" or "ill-advised choice" exist, "unwise decision" remains a versatile and effective way to express disapproval of a decision's lack of prudence. When employing the term, consider specifying why the decision was unwise to enhance clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Poor judgment

Focuses on the lack of good sense displayed in making the decision.

Ill-advised choice

Emphasizes the bad advice or lack of counsel that led to the decision.

Imprudent action

Highlights the lack of foresight and care taken in the action.

Unsound judgment

Stresses the flawed reasoning behind the decision.

Injudicious determination

Highlights a lack of wisdom and forethought in the final decision.

Questionable call

Suggests the decision is open to doubt or criticism.

Regrettable choice

Emphasizes the feeling of remorse or disappointment associated with the decision.

Unfortunate determination

Focuses on the unlucky or unfavorable nature of the decision's outcome.

Misguided action

Highlights the incorrect direction or purpose behind the action.

Error in judgment

Pinpoints the decision as a mistake or a failure of reasoning.

FAQs

How to use "unwise decision" in a sentence?

You can use "unwise decision" to describe an action or choice that is not sensible or well-considered. For example: "Investing all of your savings in a volatile stock market is generally considered an "unwise decision"."

What can I say instead of "unwise decision"?

You can use alternatives like "poor judgment", "ill-advised choice", or "imprudent action" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "unwise decision" or "foolish decision"?

Both "unwise decision" and "foolish decision" are grammatically correct, but "unwise decision" is generally considered more formal and less harsh than "foolish decision". The best choice depends on the specific context and the desired tone.

What's the difference between "unwise decision" and "risky decision"?

"Unwise decision" suggests a lack of good judgment or forethought, while "risky decision" implies that the outcome is uncertain and could have negative consequences. A risky decision isn't necessarily unwise, and an "unwise decision" might not always be obviously risky.