a course correction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a course correction" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a change in direction or strategy to address a problem or improve a situation. Example: "After reviewing the project's progress, we realized that a course correction was necessary to meet our deadlines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Now comes a course correction.

The New York Times

He wants a course correction.

The Economist

You need a course correction".

The New York Times

Please consider this a course correction.

The Guardian

The program began as a course correction.

Harvard Business Review

"But this country needs a course correction.

The New York Times

I think the Labour party needed a course correction.

The Guardian

We wish he had announced a course correction.

The New York Times

At the very least, there has been a course correction.

The New York Times

"It's never too late for a course correction," he said.

The New York Times - Health

Obama, the realist on whom idealism is projected, is obliged to make a course correction.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a course correction" when you want to emphasize a planned or necessary change in strategy, direction, or approach. It implies that previous actions were not optimal and a deliberate shift is required.

Common error

Avoid using "a course correction" in very informal settings where simpler language might be more appropriate. Phrases like "changing gears" or "switching things up" may fit better.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a course correction" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. It describes the act of altering a planned route or strategy, aiming to redirect towards a more desirable outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

19%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Science

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a course correction" is a common noun phrase used to describe a necessary change in direction or strategy. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. It is most frequently found in news and media, academic, and formal business contexts, indicating its versatility across different registers. While generally neutral to formal, simpler alternatives may be preferable in informal settings. Remember to employ this phrase when a deliberate shift from a non-optimal path is required and be mindful of its register in different communicative situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a mid-course adjustment

Specifies an alteration made during an ongoing process.

a change of direction

Highlights altering the path or trajectory being followed.

an adjustment

Focuses on making a minor change to improve something.

a strategic shift

Indicates a significant alteration in overall strategy.

a realignment

Emphasizes bringing something back into a proper arrangement or position.

a revision

Implies reviewing and making necessary corrections or improvements.

a modification

Suggests altering the details of something.

an overhaul

Describes a thorough repair or renovation.

a refinement

Focuses on making subtle improvements for greater precision.

a tweak

Involves making a small adjustment to optimize performance.

FAQs

How to use "a course correction" in a sentence?

You can use "a course correction" to describe a needed change in direction or strategy. For example, "The project required "a course correction" after the initial results were unsatisfactory."

What can I say instead of "a course correction"?

You can use alternatives like "an adjustment", "a change of direction", or "a strategic shift" depending on the context.

When is "a mid-course adjustment" a better choice than "a course correction"?

"A mid-course adjustment" is more specific, implying the adjustment happens during an ongoing process, while ""a course correction"" can refer to a change at any point.

Is "course correction" formal or informal language?

"Course correction" is generally considered neutral to formal, suitable for professional and academic contexts. Simpler terms may be preferred in very informal settings.