a decisive phase

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a decisive phase" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a critical or pivotal period in a process, event, or situation where important decisions are made. Example: "The negotiations reached a decisive phase, determining the future of the partnership."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Myanmar is entering a decisive phase in its political transition.

The Economist

The battle for the country's presidency appeared to be entering a decisive phase.

The New York Times

THE battle for eastern Ukraine may be entering a decisive phase.

The Economist

Pakistani military officials said that the offensive against the Taliban in Swat had entered a decisive phase.

The New York Times

As Ukrainian presidential elections approach on Sunday, the crisis in the east is entering a decisive phase.

The Guardian

The allegations come as an opposition campaign to force a recall election against the president enters a decisive phase.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Seed germination is an important and decisive phase in growth cycle of a plant since it determines plant establishment and yield.

International Journal of Recycling of Organic Waste in Agriculture

The war against the Islamic State (IS) is about to enter a new, possibly decisive phase.

Huffington Post

But this week, Italian plans for a 35-mile rail link under the Alps, four miles longer than the Channel tunnel and linking Turin to Lyons, will move into a new and possibly decisive phase.

The Guardian

The Serb's profligacy allowed Moya to take the set into a tie-break, and it was here that the match entered its decisive phase, Djokovic saving a set point before wrapping things up with a massive forehand.

The Guardian - Sport

In 462, together with the young Pericles, the Athenian statesman Ephialtes pushed through the decisive phase of the reforms, namely an assault on the powers of the Areopagus.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a decisive phase", ensure the context clearly indicates what decision or outcome is being determined. For instance, specify which negotiation, battle, or project is at a critical stage.

Common error

Don't use "a decisive phase" for routine situations or minor events. Reserve it for contexts where the outcome truly has significant and lasting consequences. Overusing the phrase diminishes its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a decisive phase" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an object or complement within a sentence. It identifies a specific period marked by critical events that influence subsequent outcomes. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a decisive phase" is a useful phrase to describe a critical time when important decisions are made. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While suitable for both formal and informal contexts, it's most commonly found in news and media sources. When employing this phrase, ensure the context is clear and the weight of the outcome is genuinely significant. Alternatives such as "a critical juncture" or "a pivotal stage" can provide subtle shifts in emphasis. Remember, judicious use will maintain the phrase's impact and credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a critical juncture

Emphasizes the importance of the moment as a turning point.

a pivotal stage

Highlights the significance of the stage as crucial for future outcomes.

a turning point

Focuses on the change in direction or momentum.

a crucial period

Stresses the importance of the timeframe.

a key moment

Highlights a specific instant of great importance.

a climactic episode

Implies a culmination or peak in a series of events.

a significant milestone

Emphasizes progress and achievement but highlights importance.

a make-or-break situation

Highlights the high stakes involved.

a defining moment

Stresses the moment's role in shaping identity or outcome.

an important chapter

Frames the phase as part of a larger narrative.

FAQs

How can I use "a decisive phase" in a sentence?

You can use "a decisive phase" to describe a critical period where important decisions are made, such as "The negotiations entered "a decisive phase", determining the future of the partnership."

What are some alternatives to "a decisive phase"?

Alternatives to "a decisive phase" include "a critical juncture", "a pivotal stage", or "a turning point", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a decisive phase" formal or informal?

"A decisive phase" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it's generally more appropriate for neutral or professional settings like news reports or business discussions.

What makes a phase "decisive"?

A phase is "decisive" when the events or decisions within that period have a significant impact on the final outcome or future direction of a process, project, or situation.