a courageous decision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a courageous decision" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a choice that requires bravery or boldness, often in challenging situations. Example: "Choosing to speak out against injustice was a courageous decision that inspired many others to do the same."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It's a courageous decision".

The New York Times

And that is a courageous decision".

The Guardian - Sport

Bogans made a courageous decision to play.

The New York Times - Sports

Is Mr Mbeki capable of making such a courageous decision?

The Economist

We have made a courageous decision to limit the damage".

The Guardian - Sport

That's a courageous decision for a first-time novelist.

The Guardian - Books

She called his retirement announcement "a courageous decision dictated by prayer, a true message of faith".

The New York Times

"Bob is a great producer and, really, I think he made a courageous decision here".

The New York Times

"It's a bit delicate to call it a courageous decision to bring me in," he cautioned.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

It's a very courageous decision the French president has taken and the French people, I think, are with them in that but it's going to be difficult".

Independent

He said his father had taken a "carefully considered course of action" after "exhausting all possibilities and options available to him". "This was a very courageous decision that was not made easily," Mark Danes said.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a courageous decision" when you want to emphasize that a choice involved personal risk, moral strength, or a willingness to face negative consequences. This highlights the bravery and resolve behind the action.

Common error

Avoid using "a courageous decision" for minor or routine choices. Overusing the phrase dilutes its impact and can make your writing sound hyperbolic. Reserve it for truly significant actions that required genuine bravery or resolve.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a courageous decision" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "courageous" modifies the noun "decision". It serves to describe the quality or nature of the decision being made. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a courageous decision" is a frequently used phrase to describe a choice that requires bravery or strength, as validated by Ludwig AI. It is grammatically correct and most commonly found in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts. To diversify your writing, you can use alternatives like "a brave choice" or "a bold move". When using this phrase, ensure the situation genuinely warrants such a description and avoid overuse to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a brave choice

Emphasizes bravery and valor in the selection.

a bold move

Focuses on the audacity and lack of fear in the action.

a daring step

Highlights risk-taking and boldness in proceeding.

a valiant act

Stresses courage and determination in the action.

a plucky resolution

Implies spirited and determined resolve.

an intrepid determination

Focuses on fearlessness and firmness of purpose.

a fearless determination

Implies lack of fear as a motivator in resolution.

a spirited action

Highlights the energetic and determined nature of the action.

a heroic measure

Emphasizes the courageous and selfless nature of the measure.

a dauntless resolution

Implies fearlessness and persistence in decision-making.

FAQs

How can I use "a courageous decision" in a sentence?

You can use "a courageous decision" to describe an action that requires bravery, such as, "Speaking out against injustice was "a courageous decision" that inspired others."

What are some alternatives to "a courageous decision"?

Alternatives include "a brave choice", "a bold move", or "a daring step", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a courageous decision"?

Use "a courageous decision" when you want to highlight the bravery and personal risk involved in making a particular choice, particularly in situations involving moral strength or potential negative consequences.

Is "a courageous decision" the same as "a brave decision"?

While similar, "a courageous decision" often implies a greater level of risk or potential sacrifice than "a brave decision". Courage often involves facing known dangers, while bravery can also encompass actions taken impulsively in the face of fear.