a definite course

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a definite course" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific and clear path or direction that one intends to follow, often in the context of plans or actions. Example: "After much consideration, we have decided to take a definite course in our strategy to improve customer satisfaction."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Akula et al [ 9] in a recent study used echocardiography to examine LV function in STZ rats over a definite course of time (2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks).

Cardiovascular Diabetology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

A mandatory, definite course or method of action that all must follow.

Forbes

Policy - A mandatory, definite course or method of action that all must follow - Particularly useful for disciplined, hierarchical organizations where all you need is compliance.

Forbes

Policy: mandatory, definite course of method of action that all must follow.

Forbes

Thus, taken together these findings show first, that hand-centred PPS representation modulates the excitability of the hand corticospinal motor representation, and second, that such modulation acts with a definite time-course.

Plosone

These are much less prescriptive or directive than guidelines that lay out preferred courses of actions or policies that mandate definite courses or methods of action that all must follow.

Forbes

"This is a definite change of course for us," says Tom Piskura, a vice president at USA. "After 150 films over eight years, the public perceives us as the 'film noir, lady in jeopardy' network and I'd like to show that we can do more.

Los Angeles Times

Acne vulgaris is one such condition, primarily seen in adolescents and often with a definite and limited course.

Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology

A probably positive test, according to whether it was or was not confirmed by monitoring to death or by the development of a definite clinical-imaging course after the initial result, was defined as true or false positive respectively.

BMC Cancer

Every, candidate must send to the Vice-Chancellor, Pembroke College Lodge, on or before February 15, his name and a definite statement of the course of research which he proposes to undertake, together with such evidence of his qualifications as he thinks proper, and with the names of not more than three referees to whom the electors may apply for information.

Nature

There is, of course, a definite speed imbalance between incoming and outgoing messages.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a definite course" when you want to emphasize a clear and unambiguous plan of action. It conveys a sense of certainty and purpose.

Common error

Avoid using "a definite course" in very informal or casual settings. Opt for simpler alternatives like "a plan" or "a way forward" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a definite course" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a specific and determined plan, direction, or method. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a definite course" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes a specific and determined plan or direction. According to Ludwig, this phrase is well-regarded. While it can be applied in various contexts, it's most frequently found in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. When using this phrase, it's crucial to maintain a tone that aligns with the context, and to ensure clarity in the plan being described. For alternative phrasing, consider options like ""a clear path"" or ""a specific plan"".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clear path

Focuses on the clarity of the direction rather than the determination to follow it.

a specific plan

Emphasizes the detailed nature of the strategy being pursued.

a set route

Implies a pre-determined and unchangeable path.

a firm strategy

Highlights the strength and resolve behind the chosen approach.

a fixed procedure

Suggests a rigid and standardized method.

a decided course of action

More formal and emphasizes the decision-making process.

an established method

Indicates a method that is already recognized and accepted.

a precise approach

Focuses on the accuracy and exactness of the method.

a determined direction

Highlights the resoluteness in pursuing a particular path.

a conclusive strategy

Suggests a strategy that is likely to bring about a final result.

FAQs

How can I use "a definite course" in a sentence?

You can use "a definite course" to describe a clear plan of action, as in, "After much deliberation, the company decided on "a definite course" to expand its market share".

What is a good alternative to "a definite course"?

Alternatives to "a definite course" include "a clear path", "a specific plan", or "a firm strategy", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a definite course" or "a possible course"?

"A definite course" implies certainty and a firm decision, while "a possible course" suggests uncertainty and exploration. The choice depends on whether a decision has been made or not.

What's the difference between "a definite course" and "a preferred course"?

"A definite course" indicates a decision has been made, while "a preferred course" suggests a recommended or favored option that may not yet be finalized. "A preferred course" implies optionality.