a clear-cut strategy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clear-cut strategy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a strategy that is straightforward, well-defined, and easy to understand. Example: "In order to achieve our goals, we need to develop a clear-cut strategy that outlines our objectives and the steps we will take to reach them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

They will have to stay without a clear-cut strategy.

The Guardian

These divisions among Republicans have left party leaders without a clear-cut strategy for the fall elections.

The New York Times

Up to the final, Ferrer had dominated, winning 65 percent (119 of 181) of his second-serve points, but Nadal had a clear-cut strategy to win this decisive battle.

The New York Times

Newly released documents show, however, that the Soviet dictator Josif Stalin did not have a clear-cut strategy in that region.

Johns Hopkins University

But although the results may lead to a clear-cut strategy in the Western world, it won't be easy to come up with worldwide public health recommendations based on the study, says Decock.

Science Magazine

Schofield who flies old fighter jets in his spare time and studies military history with a passion has a clear-cut strategy: Leave the top two companies alone and go after the second-tier players.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

It did not contain any clear-cut strategy for what Barack Obama really wants in Syria: Is it a chemical deal, if it is serious?

Huffington Post

A handful of faculty members voted against changing the grading policy, including molecular biology professor Elizabeth Gavis, who said she voted against it because no clear-cut strategy to control grade inflation and minimize grading disparities between departments had been presented.

Princeton University

He called for a clear-cut exit strategy for Australian forces in Iraq, and he criticized Howard for recent rises in interest rates.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Fraser also supports a "clear-cut media strategy" to avoid setting off alarms when researchers overwhelmingly agree that they aren't warranted.

Science Magazine

Companies in the middle (either more or less affected by two variables) have less clear-cut strategies.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a clear-cut strategy" when you want to convey that there's a well-defined approach to solving a problem or achieving a goal. It suggests confidence and direction.

Common error

Avoid making the strategy overly complex when aiming for "a clear-cut strategy". Simplicity enhances understanding and execution. Focus on essential steps and avoid unnecessary details.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clear-cut strategy" functions as an adjective phrase modifying the noun "strategy". It provides a descriptive attribute, emphasizing the clarity and decisiveness of the strategy being discussed. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

34%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a clear-cut strategy" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes a well-defined plan. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's suitable for various contexts, including news, academia, and science. While alternatives like "a well-defined plan" or "a straightforward approach" exist, "a clear-cut strategy" emphasizes decisiveness. Remember to maintain simplicity when crafting your clear strategies. The phrase sees frequent use in news contexts and is, overall, an uncommon phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a well-defined plan

Emphasizes the planning aspect, focusing on the details and structure of the plan.

a distinct approach

Highlights the uniqueness and clarity of the method being used.

a straightforward plan

Stresses the simplicity and ease of understanding the intended course of action.

a decisive course of action

Emphasizes the firmness and determination behind the chosen strategy.

a definite game plan

Implies a structured strategy, often in a competitive context.

a specific roadmap

Suggests a detailed and directional guide to achieve a goal.

a targeted tactic

Focuses on a specific maneuver designed to achieve a particular objective.

a precise method

Highlights accuracy and detail in the chosen approach.

a well-thought-out scheme

Emphasizes the careful consideration and planning involved.

a defined protocol

Suggests a formal and standardized set of procedures.

FAQs

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

You can use "a clear-cut strategy" to describe a well-defined plan, like: "The company needs "a clear-cut strategy" to increase sales".

What are some alternatives to "a clear-cut strategy"?

Alternatives include "a well-defined plan", "a distinct approach", or "a straightforward plan".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a clear-cut strategy"?

It's appropriate when describing a plan or method that is straightforward, well-defined, and easy to understand. This suggests confidence and direction.

What makes "a clear-cut strategy" different from just a strategy?

"A clear-cut strategy" implies a higher degree of definition and simplicity than just "a strategy". It suggests the plan is not only present but also easily understood and implemented.