a consequential decision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a consequential decision" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a decision that has significant effects or outcomes. Example: "Choosing to invest in renewable energy was a consequential decision that impacted the company's future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Even where to sit can be a consequential decision.

The New York Times - Travel

"You have not been involved in a consequential decision," Christie told Rubio.

The Guardian

"I mean, endless debates about how many angels on the head of a pin from people who've never had to make a consequential decision in an executive position.

The Guardian

"Problematic items do sometimes occur even in good tests, and that is one more reason it is never acceptable to make a consequential decision based on a single test score," he said.

The New York Times

Joining in the Gartner MQ process for your sector is a consequential decision that impacts how your competition, stakeholders and customers view the technology products or services you offer.

Forbes

They argue that a president with less than a year left in office shouldn't make such a consequential decision.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

That was a hugely consequential decision, a very offensive decision to most people.

Huffington Post

You have an opportunity to make a very consequential decision in peoples' lives".

The New York Times

In 2008, similarly, Obama aides began discussing whether health care or climate policy should be the top priority, a hugely consequential decision.

The New York Times

In a more consequential decision for the retailers still battling the company in the courts, however, the commission said that many other parts of the sneaker's look — the rubber-toe band, toe cap and stripes — do not have the same protections.

The New York Times

That, the narrative goes, was a hugely consequential decision.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a consequential decision", ensure the context clearly indicates the scope and impact of the decision being discussed. Provide specific details to illustrate why the decision is considered consequential.

Common error

Avoid labeling every decision as "a consequential decision". This diminishes the phrase's impact. Reserve it for truly pivotal choices with significant, lasting effects.

Linguistic Context

A consequential decision functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It describes a specific decision and emphasizes its importance. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a consequential decision" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a decision with significant and far-reaching effects. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage. While appropriate in many contexts, it's particularly well-suited for formal and professional writing, as it lends a sense of importance and weight to the decision being discussed. Be mindful of the potential to overstate the impact and avoid using it for routine choices. Alternatives include "a significant choice" or "an important determination". By understanding its nuances, writers can use this phrase effectively to convey the importance of pivotal choices.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant choice

Emphasizes the importance of the selection being made.

an important determination

Focuses on the act of deciding and its relevance.

a critical judgment

Highlights the potentially decisive nature of the assessment.

a weighty conclusion

Indicates the heaviness or seriousness associated with the resolution.

a pivotal resolution

Suggests a turning point or a crucial outcome.

a far-reaching determination

Highlights the broad impact and long-term effects.

a game-changing judgment

Implies a transformative shift as a result of the assessment.

a momentous selection

Emphasizes the historical significance of the choice.

a crucial assessment

Underscores the vital need for a careful and accurate evaluation.

a landmark decision

Suggests a decision that sets a precedent or marks a significant moment.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a consequential decision" in a sentence?

To use "a consequential decision" effectively, provide context that highlights the importance and potential ramifications of the decision. For example: "The board's decision to invest in new technology was "a consequential decision" that would shape the company's future."

What are some alternatives to saying "a consequential decision"?

Depending on the specific context, you can use alternatives such as "a significant choice", "an important determination", or "a critical judgment".

Is it appropriate to use "a consequential decision" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a consequential decision" is more suited for formal or professional writing. In informal contexts, consider using simpler terms like "big decision" or "important choice".

What makes a decision "consequential"?

A decision is considered "consequential" when it has significant, far-reaching effects or outcomes. These outcomes can impact individuals, organizations, or even entire systems.