a clear-cut plan

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clear-cut plan" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a plan that is straightforward, well-defined, and easy to understand. Example: "In order to achieve our goals, we need to develop a clear-cut plan that outlines each step of the process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

"There was a clear-cut plan of what was trying to be achieved, and that was followed by targeting the right guys".

The New York Times - Sports

But they don't, and despite Mr. Obama's much-needed recommitment to peace efforts, he has not yet offered a clear-cut plan for moving forward.

The New York Times

A clear-cut plan can also help academic scientists understand how crucial it is to stay on track by producing agreed-upon deliverables on time.

Science Magazine

Dreamers might not have a clear-cut plan, but all the best dreamers have direction.

Huffington Post

If you have a clear-cut plan, and the courage, commitment and energy to execute that strategy, you can flourish.

Huffington Post

A clear-cut plan with measurable objectives for minimizing disease risks and enhancing health will be developed collaboratively thereby enhancing the patient's engagement.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Businesses are eager to spend money on big data, but few have a clear cut plan for what they plan to do with the technology, according to a new Gartner report.

TechCrunch

But with a clear cut plan, you can spend a spectacular day in Key West, and sample some of the best things the place has to offer.

Huffington Post

"But how central the planning was, and the extent to which there was central strategy behind the effort, including hiding caches of weapons and money and developing a clear-cut battle plan, is a little more problematic".

The New York Times

Even without a clear-cut action plan, she wants to know whatever message her DNA carries for her future.

Science Magazine

Detroit must compete for these taxpayers with a clear-cut turnaround plan.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting "a clear-cut plan", ensure that all stakeholders understand their roles and responsibilities. This promotes accountability and efficient execution.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a clear-cut plan" as immune to change or unforeseen circumstances. Emphasize flexibility and adaptability to maintain credibility and manage expectations effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clear-cut plan" functions as an adjective phrase modifying the noun "plan". It describes the plan as being unambiguous, well-defined, and easy to understand. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is grammatically sound and commonly employed.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

4%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a clear-cut plan" is a grammatically correct and understandable phrase used to describe a well-defined strategy. As per Ludwig AI, this phrase is suitable for various contexts, primarily appearing in news, media, and scientific domains. When employing this phrase, ensure the plan is easily understandable and that its presentation does not imply infallibility. Instead, emphasize adaptability to maintain credibility. Alternatives such as "a well-defined strategy" or "a concrete roadmap" offer similar meanings while providing variety in expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a well-defined strategy

Emphasizes the structured and detailed nature of the plan.

a concrete roadmap

Highlights the practical and step-by-step aspect of the plan.

a definitive course of action

Stresses the decisive and unambiguous nature of the plan.

a precise strategy

Focuses on the accuracy and exactness of the plan.

a distinct plan

Underscores the unique and easily identifiable nature of the plan.

a straightforward plan

Highlights the simplicity and ease of understanding of the plan.

a well-thought-out plan

Emphasizes the careful consideration and planning behind the strategy.

a detailed blueprint

Similar to a roadmap but suggests a higher level of detail and technical specificity.

an explicit plan

Focuses on how openly and clearly communicated the plan is.

a specific action plan

Emphasizes the action-oriented nature of the plan, focusing on concrete steps.

FAQs

How can I use "a clear-cut plan" in a sentence?

You can use "a clear-cut plan" to describe a strategy that is well-defined and easy to understand. For example, "The company developed "a clear-cut plan" to increase sales by the end of the quarter".

What are some alternatives to saying "a clear-cut plan"?

Alternatives include "a well-defined strategy", "a concrete roadmap", or "a definitive course of action", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to have "a clear-cut plan" or a flexible approach?

While "a clear-cut plan" provides structure, a flexible approach allows for adjustments based on new information or changing circumstances. The best approach depends on the specific situation.

What makes "a clear-cut plan" effective?

An effective "a clear-cut plan" includes measurable objectives, defined timelines, and assigned responsibilities. This ensures that everyone understands the goals and their roles in achieving them.